Air Canada announced that it is preparing for a potential suspension of most operations due to ongoing contract negotiations with the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), representing over 5,200 pilots. Given the carrier’s dominant position in Canada this would severely hamper domestic, cross-boarding and international travel for Canadians or people coming into Canada.
Key Points:
- Talks between Air Canada and ALPA remain far apart, particularly on wage demands.
- If no agreement is reached by September 15th, either side can issue a 72-hour strike or lockout notice.
- This would trigger a three-day wind-down of Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge flights, with a complete shutdown possible as early as September 18th.
- Air Canada has a goodwill policy allowing customers with flights booked between September 15-23 to change or defer travel at no cost.
- Customers are advised to monitor flight status online and not go to the airport without a confirmed booking in case of cancellations.
Impact on Passengers:
- Over 110,000 passengers travel daily with Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge.
- Flights would be progressively cancelled over three days, potentially affecting a significant number of travelers.
- Air Canada will work with other carriers to secure seats for affected passengers, though options may be limited.
- Resuming normal operations after a shutdown could take up to 7-10 days.
Negotiations with Pilots:
- Air Canada claims it has offered a competitive wage increase but that ALPA’s demands are unreasonable.
- The airline is committed to maintaining its pilots’ position as the highest paid in Canada and is open to arbitration.
- Air Canada is calling on the government to intervene if a negotiated settlement is not reached to avoid a major disruption.
Additional Information:
- Air Canada Express flights operated by Jazz and PAL Airlines will continue to operate as they are separate entities.
- Customers can find more information about their rights and Air Canada’s contingency plans on the airline’s website.
