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Canada’s Air-Travel Complaint Backlog Hits 85,000, Extending Waits

A surge in filings under 2019 compensation rules has outpaced the agency’s expanded capacity.

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Overview

  • The Canadian Transportation Agency reported about 85,000 unresolved complaints as of Aug. 14, two days before the Air Canada flight attendants’ strike.
  • The regulator says it closed more than 33,600 files in 2024–25 after launching a new case‑management system in 2023, yet the queue continued to grow.
  • Passengers seeking redress for disruptions tied to the strike must first contact Air Canada in writing and may file with the CTA only if the airline does not respond within 30 days.
  • An air‑passenger advocate estimates CTA resolutions now often take 18 to 24 months and recommends small claims court as a faster alternative.
  • Air Canada is offering refunds or credits and reimbursement for alternative travel and reasonable expenses for Aug. 15–23 cancellations, with payments expected in four to six weeks.