Air Canada is getting ready to stop most of its flights because talks with the pilots’ union are not going well. The airline and its branch, Air Canada Rouge, might start suspending flights as early as September 15, spreading over three days.
If they can’t reach an agreement, either the airline or the union might issue a 72-hour notice for a strike or lockout, which would lead to a three-day plan to wind down operations.
Discussions between Air Canada and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which represents over 5,200 pilots, are still ongoing, but there’s a big gap between their positions. Air Canada’s CEO, Michael Rousseau, says there’s still time to reach a deal if ALPA can reduce its wage demands, which are much higher than average Canadian raises.
Last month, 98% of Air Canada pilots voted in favor of a strike. The union and the airline entered a legally required three-week cooling-off period on August 27.
Wages must match with US Counterparts
The pilots are asking for higher wages to match those of U.S. pilots, who received significant pay increases last year due to pilot shortages and high travel demand. Air Canada pilots are frustrated because they are paid much less than U.S. pilots, even though they fly similar routes.
In the past year, pilots at major U.S. airlines got pay raises of 34% to 40% over four years. WestJet pilots recently approved a new contract, avoiding a strike.
If Air Canada suspends its flights, it could take 7 to 10 days to return to normal operations. The airline is working with other airlines to help passengers if flights are canceled. Flights operated under the Air Canada Express brand will still run as usual because they are operated by third parties.
If the suspension of flights happens, Air Canada is making plans to help passengers who might be affected by the cancellations. They are coordinating with other airlines to find alternative flights for stranded travelers. Meanwhile, Air Canada Express flights, which are run by third-party companies, will continue as scheduled.
The airline is also preparing to handle the situation smoothly, aiming to minimize disruptions for customers. They will provide updates and assistance to passengers as the situation develops.
Air Canada is hopeful that the ongoing negotiations will lead to a resolution before the potential suspension begins. The airline and the pilots’ union are both working hard to find common ground and avoid a full-scale disruption.
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