Toronto, September 10, 2024
Air Canada advised on Tuesday, September 10 that it is finalizing contingency plans to suspend most of its operations in advance of a potential strike or lock out, as a new collective agreement between the airline and pilot group remains unsecured. Talks between the company and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), representing more than 5,200 pilots at Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge continue, but the parties remain far apart. Unless an agreement is reached, beginning on September 15, either party may issue a 72-hour strike or lock-out notice, which would trigger the carrier’s three-day wind-down plan.
As expected, Air Canada’s cargo operations will also be affected if such action is initiated. Each day, Air Canada Cargo carries in the belly holds of its aircraft and air freighters perishable or live commercial goods, components for manufacturers, and other time-sensitive items for Canadians. Already, the airline has begun limiting acceptance of some of these goods given average shipment timelines.
At this point the airline declined to further comment specifically on how the latest development may affect air cargo operations.
Read more in a press release from Air Canada.
For more information, please call David Lychek, Director – Ocean & Air Services at (905) 882-4880, ext. 1207.
