March 3, 2026 at 4:00 PM
Dear Members,
Your Unifor Bargaining Committee would like to remind members that the current collective bargaining agreement expired on February 28, 2026. However, even though we have gone past the expiration date, the contract remains on a statutory freeze until we ratify a new agreement. This means that the contract is "status quo" and does not change. A statutory freeze also prohibits the employer from altering terms of employment without the union's consent during the period of collective bargaining.
NOTE: Unifor members did not receive a pay increase on February 28, 2026 (i.e. the final day of the contract) as it was not negotiated in the current collective agreement. Additionally, for those Unifor members that are not at the top of the current employee pay scale, you will progress to the next step on the pay scale of your Air Canada service anniversary date.
The employer is currently in bargaining with three other bargaining units, but has confirmed that Local 2002 negotiations will resume on March 23, 2026. At that time, we will be addressing monetary items.
DISINFORMATION
Social media and AI postings are making their rounds on multiple online platforms and in chat-rooms. Some of the content is deliberately incorrect and negative which is leading some members to panic and question the bargaining process. We would like each of you to consider the source when you are digesting information about the collective bargaining process. Your District Chairperson, Vice Chairpersons, and Health and Safety officers in your workplace are all fantastic sources of information. Your regional Vice President is also knowledgeable about the processes and may answer questions you may have.
RELIABLE SOURCES
During this round of negotiations, you have access to a Mobility Captain. Go to any of these workplace Union officers for correct information and understanding the bargaining process.
Your elected Bargaining Committee needs to have the full support of the membership during these negotiations. Your support impacts the overall success at the negotiating table. Your patience and understanding are greatly appreciated and we are committed to keeping you informed and empowered every step of the way.
Bargaining updates will be issued from unifor2002.org as well from Unifor Local 2002 e-news messaging. If you have not already subscribed to e-news, please do so via the link below.
In Solidarity,
Your Unifor Bargaining Committee
Astrid Metzler – Chair of the Committee & Western Region Representative
Soppo Gomez-Gnali – Pacific Region Representative
Brett Grassam – Central Region Representative
Eric Bedard – Eastern Region Representative
Cheryl Robinson – Atlantic Region Representative
Jacky Lui – Bargaining Representative
Ross McConkey – Bargaining Representative
Angelina Trignano – Bargaining Representative
Vince De Sua – Bargaining Representative
Tracey Potter – Unifor 2002 Grievance Coordinator
Tammy Moore – Unifor 2002 President
Frances Galambosy – Unifor National Staff Representative
Sandi McManus – Unifor National Aviation Sector Director
Unifor is Canada's largest union in the private sector, representing 320,000 workers in every major area of the economy. The union advocates for all working people and their rights, fights for equality and social justice in Canada and abroad, and strives to create progressive change for a better future.
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26-03-03 Unifor AC bargaining update EN.txt