Anindita Chatterjee
Updated on: October 9, 2024 1:44 pm GMT
Air Canada Faces Impending Shutdown Amid Pilot Union Dispute
Air Canada is preparing to halt most of its operations as negotiations with the pilots’ union reach a critical point. This could start as early as Sunday if a settlement isn’t reached.
Impact on Passengers and Operations
As the largest airline in Canada, Air Canada and its low-cost branch, Air Canada Rouge, manage nearly 670 flights daily. The potential shutdown could impact around 110,000 passengers each day.
Pilots Demand Increased Wages
- The airline’s pilots are advocating for higher pay to align with U.S. counterparts.
- Recent deals in the U.S. offer significantly higher salaries, with some rates being up to 45% more than what Air Canada pilots currently earn.
- Charlene Hudy, the head of the pilot union, urged the airline to negotiate without threats to disrupt travel.
Ongoing Negotiations
Talks between Air Canada and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which represents over 5,200 pilots, are still ongoing, but there is a considerable gap between the two sides. Air Canada’s CEO, Michael Rousseau, expressed hope for reaching an agreement if the union can adjust its wage demands closer to typical Canadian levels.
Cooling-off Period and Future Steps
Under current regulations, a mandatory cooling-off period is in place which prevents the union from going on strike for three weeks, effective since August 27. After a complete shutdown, Air Canada estimates it could take between seven to ten days to resume normal operations. The airline is also in talks with other airlines to manage any flight cancellations that may arise.
Government’s Stance
The Canadian government has expressed its belief in the collective bargaining process and is urging both parties to work towards an agreement.
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