Air Canada and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW) have reached a tentative agreement on a new contract, the airline announced. The deal, which covers approximately 4,500 customer service employees, was reached after months of negotiations and comes just ahead of the busy summer travel season.
Details of the Agreement
The tentative agreement includes wage increases, improved benefits, and better working conditions, according to sources close to the negotiations. Specific terms have not been disclosed pending ratification by union members, which is expected to take place in the coming weeks.
IAMAW represents customer service agents, call centre representatives, and other frontline staff at Air Canada. The union had been pushing for higher wages and more predictable scheduling, citing the airline's strong financial performance in recent years.
Background
Negotiations between Air Canada and IAMAW began earlier this year, with both sides expressing optimism about reaching a deal. The previous contract expired in March, and talks had been ongoing since then. The tentative agreement averts any potential work stoppage that could have disrupted travel plans for millions of passengers.
Air Canada has been working to rebuild its workforce and operations following the pandemic, and the airline has emphasized the importance of maintaining good labour relations. This agreement follows a similar deal reached with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) last year.
Reactions
Air Canada spokesperson Peter Fitzpatrick said the company is pleased to have reached a tentative agreement and looks forward to presenting it to employees for ratification. “This agreement recognizes the hard work and dedication of our customer service employees and ensures Air Canada remains competitive in the industry,” he said.
IAMAW District 140 President Dave Flowers also welcomed the deal, calling it a fair and equitable contract that addresses the needs of workers. “Our members deserve to share in the success of the airline, and this agreement delivers on that,” he stated.
Union members are expected to vote on the tentative agreement within the next few weeks. If ratified, the new contract will take effect immediately and run for four years.
