Air Canada delivered, this Wednesday, August 13, a 72-hour lockout notice to the Canadian Public Service Syndicate (SCFP), which represents 10,000 Air Canada and Red Air Canada.
This decision follows the notice of strike issued by the union, which could come into force this Saturday, August 16. Air Canada and Red Air Canada flights will gradually be suspended over the next three days, while those from Air Canada Express are not affected.
According to the airline, this measure aims to ” draw a clear portrait of the situation »And to avoid an unplanned stop of operations. “” The disappointing conduct of SCFP negotiators and the declared intention of the union to trigger a strike place us in a situation where the only responsible action plan is to start a controlled stop of activities “Said Michael Rousseau, president and chief executive officer of Air Canada.
Mr. Rousseau claims that the last employers’ offer included “ a 38 % increase in overall compensation over four years “, Which, he said, made Air Canada on -board agents” The best paid in Canada “, As well as improvements relating to remuneration for the ground service, rest periods, retirement and personal work-life balance. “” We did not ask for any concession to the union “, He added, adding that the company requested an arbitration imposed by the government to resolve the dead end.
As a reminder, Air Canada transports around 130,000 customers per day, including 25,000 Canadians from abroad, who could be affected by a flight disturbance. Cancellations will start this Thursday, August 14, before a complete cessation of air Canada and Red Air Canada flights on Saturday, August 16.
Passengers whose flights will be canceled will receive a full refund and, when possible, will be redirected to other carriers.
However, Air Canada warns that the capacity of other companies is already limited in this summer period. The company recommends that travelers do not go to the airport without confirmation that their flight is maintained, and regularly check the status of their flight on its site or mobile application.
