Flight attendants employed on Air Canada Express flights are currently participating in a vote to decide whether to authorize a strike due to stalled negotiations, as announced by their union. The Canadian Flight Attendant Union, representing approximately 1,000 flight attendants, is pursuing a strike mandate after unsuccessful discussions with Jazz Aviation over crucial matters despite nine months of talks and involving a mediator. The union emphasized the need for a strong strike mandate from its members to convey the seriousness of unresolved issues to Jazz Aviation.
In response, a spokesperson from Jazz Aviation reiterated the company’s commitment to reaching a resolution at the negotiation table without disrupting its operations. The company is now seeking the appointment of a conciliation officer as talks with the Canadian Flight Attendant Union have hit an impasse. Jazz Aviation functions as the main operator for Air Canada Express flights and is under the ownership of a holding company named Chorus, not Air Canada.
Although the specific issues were not detailed in the union’s statement, safety and compensation were implied as key concerns. Safety was underscored following a tragic incident involving Air Canada Express Flight AC8646 at LaGuardia Airport in March, resulting in the loss of both pilots. Marsha Walters, the president of the Canadian Flight Attendant Union, emphasized the importance of fair working conditions, proper rest, and respect for flight attendants responsible for passenger safety.
The voting process is set to conclude on Friday at noon. This development 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 remains uncertain pending the outcome of the strike mandate vote.