Union Files for Conciliation with Air Canada: What’s Next for Flight Attendants?
Air Canada flight attendants, represented by the CUPE union, have filed for conciliation with the federal labor minister amid stalled contract negotiations. With a previous contract, effective since 2015, now expired, the union is prioritizing enhanced compensation. Entry-level full-time salaries hover around $1,951 monthly, a stark contrast to rising living costs and increased workloads. Union president Wesley Lesosky remarked, “Everything has changed since 2015, but the company refuses to acknowledge reality,” emphasizing the urgent need to address deteriorating working conditions.
Additionally, the union is calling for reforms to the Canada Labour Code, highlighting "loopholes" that allow airlines to mandate approximately 35 hours of unpaid work per month. Tasks performed without compensation range from passenger assistance to essential pre-flight safety checks.
Air Canada spokesperson Peter Fitzpatrick noted the airline aims to engage with federal mediation services to facilitate an agreement, stating their commitment to valuing flight attendants’ contributions. The conciliation process will unfold over the next few months, allowing passengers to continue booking travel without concern. If an agreement isn’t reached post-conciliation—completing a 60-day period followed by a three-week cooldown—the union may choose to issue a 72-hour strike notice after a vote.
FAQs
What are the main issues in the Air Canada flight attendants’ contract negotiations?
The union is focused on increasing compensation and addressing unpaid labor practices concerning tasks like boarding and safety checks, with a push for closing loopholes in the Canada Labour Code.
What steps are being taken if negotiations fail?
Should negotiations not result in an agreement during the conciliation process, the union may issue a 72-hour notice for a potential strike following a vote.
How long does the conciliation process take?
The conciliation process lasts for 60 days, followed by a three-week cooldown period before any potential strike actions can be taken.
What is the current salary for entry-level flight attendants at Air Canada?
Entry-level full-time salaries for Air Canada flight attendants are approximately $1,951 per month.
What has Air Canada said about the negotiations?
Air Canada claims to have a strong history of successful labor relations and is open to discussing compensation during negotiations.
What tasks do flight attendants perform without pay?
Flight attendants are reported to complete tasks such as boarding, assisting passengers with mobility issues, and performing pre-flight safety checks without receiving compensation.
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