Air Canada Prepares to Mitigate the Impact of a Possible Strike as Agreement with Pilot Union Remains Elusive

Air Canada is making preparations to mitigate the impact of a potential strike by pilots affiliated with the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA).

The pilots in question include over 5,200 individuals from both Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge. Despite reaching interim agreements on many issues during 15 months of collective bargaining, there remain significant differences between the two parties. In the event of a failure to reach an agreement, a strike notice could be issued after September 15, with a full shutdown of operations commencing 72 hours after such notice.

Partial suspension of operations began on September 13, with aircraft and crew being repositioned or sent back to their home country in preparation for a potential resumption of flights. Air Canada Cargo has already limited the acceptance of certain cargoes. Returning to normal operations from a complete shutdown could take approximately 7 to 10 days.

Michael Rousseau, President and CEO of Air Canada, believes there is still time to reach an agreement if ALPA moderates its demands for wage increases, which far exceed the national average. He mentions that the decision to start an “orderly closure” to minimize the disruption caused by a strike is a very tough one.

While Air Canada Express flights will not be affected, they only account for about 20% of daily passengers, many of whom ultimately connect to Air Canada flights.

Air Canada is coordinating with other carriers to secure seats in preparation for cancellations. However, options may be limited, possibly leaving only refunds or postponement of travel as viable options. Under the Canadian Air Passenger Bill of Rights, compensation is not available for cancellations or delays caused by a strike.

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