The union representing Air Canada pilots has raised concerns over what they perceive as retaliatory and anti-labor actions by Scandinavian Airlines, the current employer of Air Canada’s incoming CEO, Anko van der Werff. The recent dismissal of Scandinavian Airlines Captain Mattias Åman Thiel, who also serves as the chair of the Swedish Pilots’ Association section of SAS, has sparked controversy without a clear reason provided by the airline for his termination.
The International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations, along with the pilots’ union, has called for Thiel’s reinstatement, labeling the dismissal as unwarranted. ALPA Canada, representing pilots at major Canadian airlines, expressed its disapproval in a letter to van der Werff, urging him to address the situation as a sign of his future engagement with Air Canada’s pilots.
While Air Canada declined to comment on the matter involving another carrier, SAS stood by its decision, emphasizing its commitment to the Scandinavian labor model and collaboration with colleagues and their representatives. The dismissal has been challenged by the Swedish Airline Pilots Association, calling for Thiel’s reinstatement and seeking damages from SAS in court.
Tristan Okkonen, chair of SWEALPA, expressed shock over the dismissal and refuted allegations that Thiel neglected his duties by traveling abroad instead of working for the union. The union argues that Thiel was working remotely at the time and is pushing for his reinstatement. Concerns have been raised about the impact of this incident on the future CEO’s relationship with employees, with the Canadian pilots’ union emphasizing the importance of trust in fostering a healthy working environment.