Flight attendants working on Air Canada Express flights are currently in the process of voting on whether to authorize a strike action due to a deadlock in bargaining talks, according to their union. The Canadian Flight Attendant Union, representing approximately 1,000 flight attendants, has expressed the need for a strike mandate following unsuccessful negotiations with Jazz Aviation on crucial issues despite nine months of discussions and the intervention of a mediator. The union believes that a strong strike mandate is essential to convey the seriousness of the unresolved matters and the determination of its members.
Jazz Aviation, the primary operator for Air Canada Express flights, has stated its commitment to reaching an agreement at the negotiating table without disrupting its operations. The company is now seeking the appointment of a conciliation officer as talks with the Canadian Flight Attendant Union have hit an impasse.
Key issues for the union include pay, compensation for ground work, and enhancements recognizing the job’s impact on its members’ lives. The union emphasizes the need for fair recognition of the work performed by flight attendants, particularly in comparison to their counterparts at other Canadian airlines. Safety concerns have been underscored following a tragic incident involving Air Canada Express Flight AC8646 at LaGuardia Airport earlier this year.
Voting on the strike mandate is set to conclude on Friday at noon. The potential strike by Air Canada Express flight attendants follows recent strike actions by WestJet and Air Canada flight attendants, signaling ongoing labor tensions in the aviation industry. If the vote passes in favor of a strike mandate, the timing of any potential job action by Air Canada Express flight attendants remains uncertain.