Last-Minute Deal Between Air Canada and ALPA Stops Pilot Strike

The tentative four-year agreement has not been publicized yet and is awaiting a ratification vote by the union’s 5,400 members.

In a significant update, Air Canada and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) reached a last-minute agreement on Sunday, preventing a pilot strike that could have caused widespread disruptions. The tentative four-year deal was reached just days before a planned walkout.

Air Canada operations were set to be progressively halted starting today, with a complete shutdown scheduled for Wednesday, September 18. However, operations will continue as usual as the parties await the ratification vote, which is expected within the next month.

Federal mediators and Labour Minister Steve MacKinnon were credited for facilitating the deal and avoiding a strike by up to 5,400 Air Canada pilots.

ALPA stated that the new agreement would add $1.9 billion in value for its members over the four-year term. This is a 46% increase compared to the previous contract, which expired in September 2023.

Charlene Hudy, chair of the Air Canada ALPA Master Executive Council, said, "After several consecutive weeks of intense round-the-clock negotiations, progress was made on several key issues including compensation, retirement, and work rules."

While the exact details of the agreement remain confidential, this resolution provides relief to passengers and companies alike, with commercial and freight flights continuing without disruption.

It remains unclear whether this deal addresses all the key issues pilots raised, including wage increases and improved health and pension benefits. 

We are following this story closely and will keep you updated. For more information, please reach out to one of our trade professionals.