The potential pilots’ strike at Air Canada, looming as soon as Sept. 17, has caused the airline to waive change fees and fare differences for itineraries around that date. The cooling-off period between the Air Line Pilots Association and Air Canada, mandated by Canadian law, commenced on Aug. 27 and ends on Sept. 17, after a strike-authorizing vote passed with 98% approval. Negotiations for a new labor contract for Air Canada’s pilots began in June 2023, following a contract negotiated in 2014.
Private mediation between the two parties lasted from January through June, but the union decided to walk away from the table. Air Canada has expressed its intent to reach a negotiated settlement with its pilots, citing significant progress during talks. The three-week cooling-off period is seen as an opportunity to address any outstanding issues and avoid a potential strike. However, the airline also acknowledges passengers’ desire for certainty and has implemented measures to accommodate travelers with bookings between Sept. 15 and Sept. 23.
Air Canada customers with bookings for travel during the affected dates can rebook without change fees and fare differences for flights through Nov. 30 with the same origin and destination. Those looking to rebook for flights after Nov. 30 will not incur a change fee but may be subject to fare differences. Passengers also have the option to cancel their flight and receive a flight credit, with refunds available only to those who booked a refundable fare type.
The Air Line Pilots Association has expressed its commitment to avoiding a strike, continuing negotiations in good faith while also preparing for any outcome. The union emphasizes the importance of Air Canada recognizing the value of its employees to prevent disruptions, lasting damage to its brand, and potential strikes. Additionally, ALPA has registered opposition to the Canada Industrial Relations Board’s decision to order striking freight train workers back on the job and impose binding arbitration between the Teamsters union and Canada’s two largest freight railway companies.
The situation between Air Canada and its pilots remains tense as the deadline for a potential strike approaches. Both parties are working towards a resolution to avoid disruptions for passengers and prevent lasting damage to the airline’s reputation. The outcome of these negotiations will have significant implications for the future relationship between Air Canada and its pilots.