The strike has effectively grounded the airline’s operations, impacting approximately 130,000 passengers daily. Air Canada has suspended all flights for the duration of the work stoppage, including those operated by Air Canada Rouge. However, regional services operated by Jazz Aviation and PAL Airlines remain unaffected.
The heart of the dispute
At the core of the dispute is the issue of compensation. CUPE contends that flight attendants are not compensated for significant portions of their work, including critical safety checks, attending to onboard medical and safety emergencies, and assisting passengers with boarding and deplaning. The union also highlights that entry-level flight attendants’ wages have increased by only 10 percent ($3 per hour) over the past 25 years, failing to keep pace with inflation.
In response, Air Canada proposed a 38 percent total compensation increase over four years, including an 8 percent raise in the first year. However, CUPE rejected this offer, arguing that the real increase for many members is just 17.2 percent, insufficient to address the rising cost of living.
Government Intervention
Federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu has expressed concern over the lack of progress in negotiations and has urged both parties to return to the bargaining table. The government is advocating for continued dialogue to achieve an agreement and avoid further disruptions.Public opinion appears to favor the flight attendants, with 59 percent of Canadians supporting their push for boarding pay. This widespread support underscores the public’s recognition of the essential services provided by flight attendants and the importance of fair compensation.Impact on Travelers
The strike has left thousands of travelers stranded or facing significant delays. Air Canada has canceled hundreds of flights, and passengers are advised not to go to the airport without a confirmed new booking. The airline is offering full refunds and limited rebooking options through other airlines, although seats are scarce due to high summer demand.
The strike is expected to continue, potentially causing further disruptions in air travel. Travelers are urged to stay updated on the situation and consider alternative arrangements. The outcome of this labor dispute will have lasting implications for labor relations in the airline industry and may set a precedent for future negotiations.