Air Canada Pilots Get More Political Support as Strike Looms

Pilots union wins backing from federal NDP as strike deadline approaches

Air Canada pilots have gained more political support as they approach a strike deadline, with the federal NDP backing their call for a fair deal.

The NDP's transport critic, Taylor Bachrach, said in a statement that the union has his party's "full support" and that the pilots deserve a "fair contract that respects their work and their families."

The Air Canada Pilots Association (ACPA) has been negotiating with the airline for months, but the two sides have yet to reach an agreement. The pilots have been without a contract since March 31, 2020.

The main sticking points in the negotiations are wages, benefits, and working conditions. The pilots are asking for a 15% wage increase over three years, while Air Canada is offering 10%. The pilots also want improvements to their benefits package and working conditions, such as more time off and better scheduling.

Air Canada has said that it is committed to reaching a fair deal with the pilots, but it has also warned that it is prepared to lock out the pilots if necessary. A lockout would mean that the pilots would be prevented from working, even if they are willing to do so.

The strike deadline is set for June 20, 2023. If the two sides do not reach an agreement by then, the pilots will be legally allowed to go on strike.

A strike would be a major disruption for Air Canada and its customers. The airline has said that it would be forced to cancel thousands of flights if the pilots go on strike.

The NDP's support for the pilots is a sign that the union has political support as it prepares for a potential strike. The NDP is the third-largest party in the House of Commons, and its support could help to put pressure on Air Canada to reach a deal with the pilots.

Conclusion

The Air Canada pilots are in a strong position as they approach a strike deadline. They have the support of the federal NDP, and they are also likely to have the support of the public. Air Canada is a major airline, and a strike would be a major disruption. The airline is likely to be under pressure to reach a deal with the pilots before the strike deadline.