Ottawa — Air Canada is facing a potential lockout of its flight attendants after they voted for a strike this weekend. Travel disruptions might begin on Thursday and could last until an agreement is reached.
The airline plans to halt operations starting Saturday, impacting numerous flights.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), which represents the flight attendants, issued a strike notice, prompting Air Canada to announce a 72-hour lockout notice effective August 16. A staggering 99.7% of union members supported the strike vote.
Wesley Lesosky, president of CUPE’s Air Canada Component, expressed frustration: “For nine months, we’ve presented fair proposals on pay and working conditions. Air Canada’s response shows they aren’t interested in resolving these issues.”
Despite eight months of negotiations, a tentative agreement was never reached. On August 11, Air Canada presented a proposal offering a 38% wage increase over four years, among other benefits. This did not satisfy the union, which instead filed for a strike.
Consequently, Air Canada will implement its contingency plan this weekend. “We will start a careful wind-down of operations,” the airline stated.
According to Air Canada, initial flight cancellations are anticipated on August 14, with more on August 15, leading to a complete suspension of flights by August 16.
The airline operates around 430 daily flights between Canada and the US, serving over 50 airports. Air Canada transports approximately 130,000 customers daily.
Recent surveys indicate flight attendants in the US are also fighting for better pay structures, with many seeking compensation for all hours worked, particularly during boarding. Boarding pay has become a contentious issue across airlines, as flight attendants often do not receive their hourly wages for essential pre-flight duties.
Canada’s Minister of Jobs and Families, Patty Hajdu, expressed concern. In a recent statement, she mentioned she has engaged with both parties and confirmed that federal mediators will remain available until an agreement is reached. “I am monitoring the situation closely and urge both sides to keep negotiating until a resolution is found,” she added.
