Air Canada has issued a statement urging the government to be prepared to intervene in the event of a potential pilot strike. The airline’s call for government intervention comes as negotiations between the company and its pilots’ union continue to stall.
In a press release, Air Canada stated that it is committed to reaching a fair and reasonable agreement with its pilots, but also emphasized the importance of ensuring the stability of the airline and the Canadian economy. The potential strike, which could affect thousands of passengers and disrupt the country’s air travel industry, has raised concerns for both the company and the government.
The Air Canada Pilots Association (ACPA) has been in negotiations with the airline since September 2018, but talks have reached an impasse over issues such as compensation, working conditions, and job security. The union has also expressed concerns over the company’s plans to expand its low-cost carrier, Rouge, which could potentially lead to job losses for Air Canada pilots.
In response to Air Canada’s statement, ACPA has accused the company of using the threat of government intervention as a bargaining tactic. The union argues that the government should not interfere in the collective bargaining process and that a strike is a last resort for its members.
The potential strike has also caught the attention of the federal government, with Transport Minister Marc Garneau stating that the government is monitoring the situation closely. Garneau has also emphasized the importance of reaching a fair and negotiated settlement between the two parties.
Air Canada’s call for government intervention is not unprecedented. In 2012, the federal government passed back-to-work legislation to end a strike by Air Canada’s customer service agents and call center employees. The move was met with criticism from unions and opposition parties, who argued that it undermined workers’ right to strike.
As negotiations continue, both Air Canada and ACPA have expressed their commitment to finding a resolution. However, with the potential for a strike looming, the government may have to step in to ensure the stability of the airline and the Canadian economy.
