Flight attendants employed on Air Canada Express flights are currently participating in a vote to determine whether to authorize strike action due to stalled negotiations, as reported by their union. The Canadian Flight Attendant Union, representing approximately 1,000 flight attendants, is seeking a strike mandate following unsuccessful discussions with Jazz Aviation on critical matters after nine months of talks and involving a mediator.
According to a union statement, obtaining a strong strike mandate from its members is crucial to convey the seriousness of unresolved issues to Jazz Aviation. Conversely, a spokesperson for Jazz Aviation stated the company’s commitment to achieving a resolution at the negotiation table without causing operational disruptions. The company is now pursuing the appointment of a conciliation officer as discussions with the Canadian Flight Attendant Union have hit an impasse.
Jazz Aviation acts as the primary operator for Air Canada Express flights, although it operates under a holding company named Chorus and is not directly owned by Air Canada. The union underlined pay as a major concern, with Chris Schliep, the union’s vice-president, highlighting the need for progress on wages, ground-related compensation, and improvements recognizing the job’s impact on members’ lives.
The union emphasized that Jazz flight attendants have fallen behind their counterparts at other Canadian airlines in terms of compensation, especially following recent industry-wide agreements. They are advocating for fair recognition of the work they perform and the responsibilities they bear. Additionally, the union is pushing for its members to be acknowledged as safety professionals for their duties, such as completing checks, attending briefings, and boarding passengers.
The significance of safety measures was underscored following a fatal incident involving Air Canada Express Flight AC8646 at LaGuardia Airport in March, resulting in the loss of both pilots. Marsha Walters, president of the Canadian Flight Attendant Union, stressed that safety begins with fair working conditions, adequate rest, and respect for flight attendants who ensure passenger safety daily.
Voting on the strike mandate will conclude on Friday at noon. This vote follows recent strike actions by WestJet flight attendants and over 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants in the past year. The potential timing of a strike by Air Canada Express flight attendants, if the vote favors strike action, remains uncertain.