Talks between pilots and Air Canada could impact Pearson Airport in Mississauga

Only weeks removed from concern that a potential WestJet pilots strike could have disrupted flights and other operations, officials at Pearson Airport in Mississauga are now keeping close tabs on bargaining talks between Air Canada pilots and the country’s flagship airline.

A WestJet work stoppage was averted at the last minute in mid-May, but efforts to keep Air Canada pilots on the job might be a bit more difficult as reports indicate there will likely be tough bargaining ahead.

Air Canada operates more flights into and out of Pearson Airport than any other airline.

The Air Canada pilots said via social media that they sent their official notice to bargain for a new contract to management on Tuesday (June 13) and that they’re “striving for a historic contract to address … growing disparity between the United States and Canada.”

The current agreement expires on Sept. 29, meaning a summer filled with bargaining talks is potentially on the horizon.

Several weeks ago, Air Canada pilots pulled out of their decade-long deal with the carrier in a move that was expected after the Air Canada Pilots Association (ACPA) had earlier merged with the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA).

Air Canada pilots voted overwhelmingly to join the ALPA, the world’s largest pilot union that represents some 40 pilot groups.

The last collective bargaining talks between Air Canada and its pilots took place in 2014.

The AC pilots have officially sent their notice to bargain to management. “Air Canada pilots are striving for a historic contract to address this growing disparity between the United States and Canada.” – First Officer Charlene Hudy, ACA MEC Chairhttps://t.co/fKlJwGp1rU

— Air Canada ALPA Pilots (@AirCanadaPilots) June 13, 2023