'Day of action' for Air Canada flight attendants at major airports

Air Canada flight attendants staged demonstrations at airports in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal on Wednesday as part of a National Day of Action organized by their union.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), which represents more than 9,500 flight attendants, says the goal is to raise awareness of what it describes as “poverty wages” and unpaid labour that occurs when crews are on duty but not in the air.

Union members have been in contract talks with Air Canada since the start of the year. Earlier this month, workers voted overwhelmingly in favour of a strike mandate, meaning a walkout could begin as soon as Saturday if 72 hours’ notice is provided.

At Vancouver International Airport, several flight attendants told Connect FM the protest was about fairness. “We love our jobs, but we also deserve respect for all the hours we work,” said one participant.

An Air Canada spokesperson said the airline remains committed to reaching an agreement with employees and that negotiations are ongoing.

Labour experts note that if a strike occurs, it could cause significant travel disruption during the peak summer season, affecting many Lower Mainland families preparing for overseas travel.

Sources: CUPE union release, Air Canada statement, on-site reporting by Connect Newsroom Team at Vancouver International Airport.