Flight attendants working on Air Canada Express flights are currently in the process of voting on whether to approve strike action, as their union reports a deadlock in negotiations. The Canadian Flight Attendant Union, representing approximately 1,000 flight attendants, is seeking a strike mandate after months of unsuccessful talks with Jazz Aviation on crucial matters. The union emphasizes the need for a strong strike mandate to convey the seriousness of unresolved issues to Jazz Aviation.
Jazz Aviation, the primary operator for Air Canada Express flights under the ownership of Chorus, expressed its commitment to reaching a resolution at the bargaining table without disrupting operations. The company is pursuing the appointment of a conciliation officer as discussions with the union have hit an impasse.
One of the key issues highlighted by the union, according to Chris Schliep, the union’s vice-president, includes concerns over wages, compensation for ground work, and improvements to acknowledge the job’s impact on members’ lives. The union stresses the importance of fair recognition for the work performed by its members, particularly regarding safety responsibilities.
The union also seeks recognition of its members as safety professionals due to their duties in ensuring passenger safety. Safety concerns were magnified following a tragic incident involving Air Canada Express Flight AC8646 at LaGuardia Airport earlier this year, which resulted in the loss of both pilots.
Marsha Walters, the president of the Canadian Flight Attendant Union, emphasized the critical role of fair working conditions, proper rest, and respect for flight attendants in ensuring passenger safety.
Voting on the strike mandate is set to conclude soon. This development follows recent strikes by WestJet flight attendants and Air Canada flight attendants, underscoring ongoing labor disputes within the airline industry. The timing of potential strike action by Air Canada Express flight attendants, if approved, remains uncertain.