July 28, 2025
RED FM News Desk
More than 10,000 flight attendants working for Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge have begun casting votes in favour of strike action as they push for a new labour contract. Represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), the flight attendants will continue voting until August 5. If the majority supports the move, they could legally go on strike as early as August 16.
Their previous collective agreement expired on March 31, 2024. That contract, which had been in place since 2015, offered just two percent annual wage increases. Negotiations for a new contract began in December 2023 but reached a deadlock in May.
Following the stalled discussions, CUPE requested conciliation — a formal process to help resolve labour disputes — from the federal government. Four mediators were appointed to assist, but no agreement was reached. The two sides have now entered a 21-day mandatory “cooling-off” period, intended to allow both parties to reassess their positions and find common ground.
If no deal is reached during this time, the union may give 72 hours’ notice of a strike, while Air Canada would also have the legal right to issue a lockout notice.
Key unresolved issues include wage increases, unpaid work, daily expense allowances (per diems), pension provisions, work rules, and access to proper rest during duty (known as prone rest).
The union has stated that its members are determined to fight for fair compensation, especially in light of rising living costs. A recent internal survey showed that 92 percent of flight attendants are willing to strike if necessary.
If a strike does occur, it could significantly impact passengers at major Canadian airports, especially Toronto Pearson International Airport, which serves as Air Canada’s largest hub. Delays, cancellations, and service disruptions could follow should workers take to the picket lines after August 16.
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