Flight attendants working on Air Canada Express flights are currently in the process of voting on whether to authorize a strike due to stalled bargaining talks, as reported by their union. The Canadian Flight Attendant Union, representing approximately 1,000 flight attendants, is seeking a strike mandate following unsuccessful negotiations with Jazz Aviation over the past nine months, despite engaging a mediator to assist in the discussions. The union emphasized the necessity of a strong strike mandate to convey the seriousness of unresolved issues to Jazz Aviation.
In response, a spokesperson for Jazz Aviation expressed the company’s commitment to reaching an agreement at the bargaining table without causing disruptions to its operations. The company is now pursuing the appointment of a conciliation officer as talks with the Canadian Flight Attendant Union have reached an impasse.
Jazz Aviation, which operates most Air Canada Express flights, is owned by a holding company named Chorus and not directly by Air Canada.
While the specific issues were not detailed in the union’s news release, safety and pay were suggested to be among the key concerns. Safety was underscored following a tragic incident in March involving Air Canada Express Flight AC8646 at LaGuardia Airport, resulting in the loss of both pilots.
Marsha Walters, president of the Canadian Flight Attendant Union, emphasized the importance of fair working conditions, proper rest, and respect for flight attendants responsible for passenger safety. She stressed the need for flight attendants to be recognized and compensated for their work and professionalism accordingly.
Voting on the strike authorization closes on Friday at noon, with the recent strike by WestJet flight attendants and the past strike by over 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants serving as recent precedents. The potential timing of a strike by Air Canada Express flight attendants, if approved by the vote, remains uncertain.