Flights by Air Canada to recommence post-lifting of strike order
Air Canada flight attendants went on strike in late 2021, marking the first such action since 1985, due to stalled contract negotiations focusing on pay and work conditions. The dispute, which resulted in the suspension of over 700 flights, centered around seeking fair wages that keep pace with inflation and industry standards, compensation for all job duties, including unpaid work off the plane, and frustration with Air Canada’s stalled negotiation tactics.
The union argued that Air Canada’s offer — a 17% raise over four years and only partial compensation for ground work — was insufficient compared to inflation of about 28% since their last contract. This led to a strike notice and subsequently a lockout by the airline when the strike was about to begin.
The Canadian government intervened with a back-to-work order and imposed binding arbitration to end the strike, citing the significant disruption caused by the work stoppage in a large, transportation-dependent country. The Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) has acted on this directive, instructing Air Canada to resume airline operations.
Air Canada Rouge flight attendants have been instructed to resume their duties, and the resumption of flights is expected to occur on Sunday. The resumption of duties for Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flight attendants is scheduled for 2 p.m. ET (6 p.m. GMT).
The end of the strike came after months of unsuccessful negotiations, causing a significant disruption to Air Canada’s flight operations. The directive from Canada's Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu played a significant role in the resumption of flights.
The resolution of the strike addresses the flight attendants’ demands for fair wages and compensation for all their work duties. The specifics of the new contract will be determined through binding arbitration.
This news marks the end of a long and disruptive period for Air Canada and its passengers. The airline and its flight attendants will now work towards rebuilding trust and ensuring a smooth return to normal operations.
References:
- CBC News
- Global News
- CTV News
In the aftermath of months of contentious negotiations, the strike by Air Canada flight attendants, a first since 1985, was brought to an end through government intervention and binding arbitration. This intervention was prompted by the substantial disruption caused to the Canadian transportation industry.
The resolution of the strike addresses the flight attendants' demands for fair wages and compensation that align with inflation and industry standards, as well as recognition for all their job duties, including unpaid work off the plane. The specifics of the new contract will be determined through binding arbitration.
