The labour dispute between Air Canada and the union representing more than 10,000 of its flight attendants took an interesting turn when protesting CUPE members interrupted a press conference held by the airline, days before a possible strike.

They were carrying signs that said “unpaid work won’t fly” and “UnfAir Canada”.

Before the meeting abruptly ended, Air Canada said several dozen flights will be cancelled by the end of day, Thursday, with 500 more by Friday night.

Binding Arbitration

Air Canada has asked for binding arbitration with flights beginning to cancel in anticipation of their flight attendants walking off the job.

In a letter posted to X, Thursday morning, Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu says the airline made the request and she has since asked CUPE to respond.

“I have met with both parties throughout the bargaining process and strongly urged them to come to an agreement,” says Hajdu in the letter.

“Air Canada submitted a request that I make a referral under Section 107 under the Canada Labour Code to send the parties to binding arbitration.”

She says, federal mediators are willing and able to work with both parties “around the clock” to reach a deal.

“I am closely monitoring the situation and will provide any and all resources to help them reach an agreement,” says Hajdu.

The union issued a 72-hour strike notice, early Wednesday morning, the airline responded with a lockdown notice.

More to come…