Mumbai: Air Canada, the flagship Canadian airline, faces potential disruptions due to an imminent pilots’ strike, which could significantly impact its Mumbai-Toronto route. With negotiations over wage increases reaching an impasse, the situation remains fluid as the airline’s operational stability is under threat. Pilots have expressed frustration with the airline’s stagnant wage structure, which has not been updated in a decade. The Air Line Pilots Association, representing over 2,000 pilots, has voiced strong dissatisfaction, citing outdated compensation compared to current industry standards.
“The last contract was negotiated ten years ago. We are united in our demand for fair compensation that reflects the current market conditions,” stated an Air Canada pilot. The strike could commence as early as Sunday if a resolution is not reached. This move is likely to disrupt not only domestic operations but also international routes, including those critical to the India-Canada corridor. Air Canada and its low-cost arm, Air Canada Rouge, collectively operate around 670 flights per day, with disruptions potentially affecting approximately 110,000 passengers globally. The Mumbai-Toronto route, currently serviced thrice weekly, is crucial for the seasonal increase in travel demand during the winter months. A strike during this period would not only cause significant delays but could also lead to outright cancellations, leaving thousands of passengers stranded or forced to seek alternative arrangements.
In response, Air Canada has been in discussions with other carriers to provide alternative solutions for affected passengers. Meanwhile, Canadian Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon has urged both parties to engage in meaningful negotiations to avoid a strike, emphasising the importance of maintaining competitive operations in the global aviation market. Passengers planning to travel on the India-Canada route are advised to monitor the situation closely and prepare for potential disruptions. The ongoing negotiations will determine whether the airline can avert the strike and maintain its flight schedules, which are pivotal for both business and leisure travellers.
