A tentative agreement has been reached between Air Canada and CUPE, representing 18,000 flight attendants. The strike is suspended while members review the deal.
Key Points:
- Not a final contract: This is a tentative agreement, not a ratified deal. It will only become binding if members vote in favour.
- Flight operations: Air Canada has begun resuming flights. The airline estimates 7–10 days before schedules normalize.
- Boarding pay introduced: For the first time, flight attendants will be paid during boarding. The rate starts at 50% of flight time hourly pay and rises to 70% by year four of the deal.
- Member review: CUPE will hold road shows and virtual briefings before a ratification vote.
Implications for Travellers:
- Travel disruptions are easing but remain possible until ratification is confirmed.
- If members reject the agreement, the strike will resume and schedules will be affected again.
- Passengers should monitor flight status closely and expect adjustments during the stabilization period.
Wider Context:
- The introduction of boarding pay is a significant precedent in Canadian aviation.
- Broader contract terms, including wages, scheduling, and quality-of-life provisions, are not yet public.
- The federal government has indicated interest in reviewing unpaid labour practices in aviation.
Not at the Gate Yet
The situation is improving, but stability is not guaranteed. Until CUPE members ratify the tentative agreement, all Air Canada operations should be considered provisional.
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