A group of air Canada flight attendants is considering going on strike next month due to dissatisfaction over their working conditions and stagnant wages. The union representing these workers has been advocating for improvements in pay, benefits, and scheduling rules during upcoming negotiations with the airline. Flight attendants have faced challenges such as unpaid duties performed before and after flights, including tasks like boarding passengers or assisting with luggage.
The issue of unpaid work is not unique to air Canada but is a broader concern across the Canadian airline industry. In contrast, U.S. airlines have started paying for similar pre-flight duties, highlighting the lack of parity in treatment between Canadian and international carriers. Lesosky from the union questions why flight attendants are excluded from a minimum standard applicable to other workers.
To address this nationwide issue, CUPE is supporting Bill C-415, a proposed federal law aiming to ensure that flight attendants receive fair compensation for all their duties. Introduced by NDP MP Bonita Zarrillo in October 2024, the bill seeks to equalize pay practices across Canada.
The union’s efforts to secure fair compensation for all hours worked may set a precedent for other airlines. Meanwhile, negotiations with Air Canada have begun, and the union remains focused on reaching an agreement without resorting to a strike.