UPDATED: Air Canada pilots ratify new collective deal

The industry can breath a sigh of relief today as a Air Canada pilots – represented by the  the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) — have ratified a new four-year contract with significant improvements to compensation as well as improvements to quality of life.

Of the 99% of eligible pilots who cast ballots, 67% voted in favour of the agreement, which demonstrates to Air Canada management the importance of recognizing the value and expertise pilots bring to the airline.

First Officer Charlene Hudy, chair of the Air Canada ALPA Master Executive Council (MEC), said: “This contract is the largest labour agreement in Air Canada’s history and reflects contributions that our pilots bring to the success of our airline. This agreement helps restore what Air Canada pilots have lost over the past two decades and creates a strong foundation from which to build on.”

And she continued: “We look forward to working under these improved pay rates and working conditions while continuing to connect our passengers to Canada, North America, and the world.”

The contract goes into effect immediately, including a ratification payment to acknowledge that pilots have been without a collective agreement since Sept. 30, 2023. The new agreement will expire Sept. 29, 2027.

“With its ambitious growth plans, Air Canada management is demonstrating its commitment to the pilots through this investment, highlighting the importance of our role in the airline’s continued success,” said Hudy.

Go to www.aircanadapilots.ca for more.

Air Canada welcomes ratification

Air Canada is welcoming the result of a vote by its more than 5,200 pilots approving a new collective agreement between the company and the association.

Michael Rousseau, President and Chief Executive of Air Canada, said: “We are very pleased this new collective agreement has been approved by our pilot group. The agreement is mutually beneficial and it will keep our pilots the best compensated in Canada and provide the work-life balance improvements they were seeking.”

Rousseau continued: “At the same time, the agreement gives our company flexibility and creates a framework for future growth of the airline and its network. We look forward to working with our pilots under this renewed partnership.”

The four-year agreement, retroactive to September 30, 2023, covers more than 5,200 pilots at Air Canada and Air Canada Rouge. It maintains Air Canada pilots’ position as the best paid in the Canadian commercial air transport industry, while providing the company the stability and flexibility to pursue its growth strategy.