Flight attendants employed on Air Canada Express flights are currently deciding whether to authorize strike action following stalled negotiations, as reported by their union. The Canadian Flight Attendant Union, representing approximately 1,000 flight attendants, is pursuing a strike mandate after facing challenges in reaching an agreement with Jazz Aviation on crucial matters despite nine months of discussions and mediation involvement.
The union stresses the importance of a strong strike mandate from its members to convey the seriousness of the unresolved issues to Jazz Aviation. In response, a spokesperson for Jazz Aviation emphasizes the company’s commitment to achieving a resolution at the negotiation 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.
Jazz Aviation, which operates as the primary provider for Air Canada Express flights, is under the ownership of a holding company named Chorus, not directly owned by Air Canada. The union, led by Chris Schliep, highlights that while some progress has been made on certain fronts, significant issues such as wages, ground work compensation, and improvements recognizing the challenges faced by flight attendants are still unresolved.
The union advocates for fair treatment, citing that Jazz flight attendants have fallen behind their counterparts in other Canadian airlines in terms of compensation. The union also emphasizes the need for recognition of its members as safety professionals due to their responsibilities in ensuring passenger safety during various flight operations. This concern for safety was underscored in light of a fatal incident involving Air Canada Express Flight AC8646 at LaGuardia Airport in March, resulting in the tragic loss of both pilots.
Marsha Walters, the president of the Canadian Flight Attendant Union, stresses that safety begins with fair working conditions, adequate rest, and respect for the crucial role flight attendants play in passenger care and safety. Voting on the strike authorization closes on Friday at noon, with the outcome potentially leading to strike action by Air Canada Express flight attendants. This development follows recent strikes by WestJet flight attendants and Air Canada flight attendants, indicating ongoing labor disputes within the Canadian aviation industry.
