Took AC 3117 from YYZ to YYC yesterday.

Scheduled departure time 10:00, scheduled arrival 12:10 (MDT) actual departure 3:45pm actual arrival 5:35pm MDT)

Damage Toll

3 Tango A320 Airplanes

Plane 1: Malfunctioning computer. AC Mechanics blow slide when they attempting to enter aircraft parked on apron (Pulled out of taxiway). Return to gate move from 212 to 208. “New” Tango plane waiting

Plane 2: Both Air Conditioning units broken when plane boarded. Takes ~45minites to fix. Wait ~20minutes for ground crew for push back. Entertained by professional musician who was on board with here flute. As we approach taxi way captain reports the plane is unit for travel. Return to gate move to gate 203

Plane3: “New” Tango aircraft waiting. Captain reports this airplane is excellent, but there are delays loading cargo. Finally depart YYZ nearly 6hours late. AC announces that a complimentary hot meal will be served.

Over the intercom the captain indicated that he had never had a day like this in 28years of flying.

The most amazing aspect of the whole thing was the understanding of the entire flight crew and passengers. Given what transpired all involved were very calm, and took the day in stride. Having said that there was no mention from AC for any reimbursment for the delays, and no ground staff meeting the plane to help the poor soles with connecting flights (long since departed).

I felt sorry for a lady behind me travelling for the first time in Canada that asked "is this common for Air Canada?" Ouch...