Air Canada Express flight attendants are currently casting their votes on whether to permit strike action, as their union reports that negotiations have reached a standstill.
The Canadian Flight Attendant Union, representing approximately 1,000 flight attendants, is seeking a strike mandate after failing to come to an agreement with Jazz Aviation on “the most critical issues” after nine months of negotiations, which included the involvement of a mediator.
According to a news release, “The CFAU believes a strong strike mandate from its membership is essential to communicate to Jazz Aviation the gravity of the unresolved issues and the determination of its members.”
A representative from Jazz Aviation stated that the company is dedicated to achieving a resolution at the bargaining table “without causing disruption to its operations.”
The spokesperson mentioned that the company is pursuing the appointment of a conciliation officer, as discussions with the Canadian Flight Attendant Union have reached a deadlock.
Jazz Aviation serves as the main operator for Air Canada Express flights and is owned by Chorus, a holding company, rather than Air Canada.
Union highlights key concerns over pay
Chris Schliep, the vice-president of the union, noted that while some progress has been made on certain items in recent months, several significant issues remain unresolved.
The union’s primary concerns include wages, compensation for ground work, and “improvements that acknowledge the effect this job has on our members’ lives,” as stated by Schliep in an email.
“Jazz flight attendants have not kept up with their counterparts at other Canadian airlines, especially considering the recent agreements made across the industry,” he added.
“We consider these matters to be reasonable and in need of resolution. Our members are seeking an agreement that accurately reflects the work they perform and the responsibilities they hold.”
The union is also advocating for its members to be recognized as safety professionals due to the tasks they undertake, such as conducting checks, attending briefings, and boarding passengers.
The significance of safety was underscored in March following the tragic incident involving Air Canada Express Flight AC8646 at LaGuardia Airport, which resulted in the loss of both pilots, as noted in the news release.
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“Safety starts before takeoff and continues after landing,” stated Marsha Walters, president of the Canadian Flight Attendant Union, in the news release.
“It begins with fair working conditions, adequate rest, and respect for the flight attendants who are responsible for the safety and care of passengers on a daily basis.”
Calleigh Gingras, a former flight attendant, has been vocal on social media about challenges within the airline industry. She expressed that she is not surprised by the possibility of a strike by WestJet flight attendants, stating that despite her love for the job, the pay for the working conditions, which included extensive unpaid hours, was ‘not sustainable’ for her.
Voting will conclude on Friday at noon. This vote follows closely on the heels of WestJet flight attendants recently striking and comes just over a year after more than 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants did the same.
It remains uncertain when Air Canada Express flight attendants might initiate a strike if they approve a strike mandate.