September 9, 2024 at 4:00 PM
As you are aware, there is a high probability that Air Canada pilots will be on strike as early as September 17, 2024. These union members are part of ALPA – Air Line Pilots Association – and have voted 98 per cent in favor of strike action if an agreement cannot be reached with the employer.
As you have likely seen, Air Canada pilots held information pickets at airports across Canada showing their solidarity and resolve in their fight for a new contract. ALPA members are looking for fair compensation, improved benefits, and enhancements to current working conditions.
Strike action (for any union) is always the option of last resort if a deal cannot be reached. A Union’s priority is to obtain a new contract through proper collective bargaining at the negotiating table. However, ALPA and Air Canada have been negotiating for more than a year without a tentative agreement.
ALPA is doing what we would do, asking the employer to return the bargaining table with a contract that reflects the value that the membership brings to the Company.
The last time Air Canada pilots went on strike was 1998. The strike, which lasted less than two weeks, grounded more than 600 flights daily and affected more than 60,000 travelers each day. Fast forward to today and number of passengers disrupted daily more than doubles to 123,000.
"A strike of this magnitude will not only impact Air Canada and its operations, but it will affect all airlines and related employers across the country," said Tammy Moore, Unifor Local 2002 President. "ALPA represents more than 5,400 pilots who are united in securing a new contract, and Unifor Local 2002 stands in solidarity with these union members."
More details will be communicated as they become available.
In Solidarity,
Unifor Local 2002 Executive Board
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24-09-09 pilot strike will impact all EN.txt