Mon Sep 09 16:13:13 UTC 2024: ## Air Canada Threatens to Suspend Operations Amid Pilot Strike Threat

**TORONTO, CANADA -** Air Canada announced Monday that it is finalizing plans to suspend most of its operations as negotiations with the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) remain stalled, raising the possibility of a major disruption to air travel in Canada.

The airline has until next week to reach a deal with its 5,000 pilots. A strike vote last month saw 98% of Canadian ALPA members vote in favor of walking out.

While talks are ongoing, Air Canada stated that the two sides “remain far apart” in their negotiations. The airline has warned that if no agreement is reached by September 15th, either party can issue a 72-hour strike or lockout notice, triggering a three-day wind-down plan that would see the majority of Air Canada flights grounded.

Air Canada has blamed the impasse on the union’s “excessive” wage demands, stating that they “far exceed average Canadian wage increases.” Last week, reports surfaced that the airline had offered pilots a 30% raise in an attempt to avert a strike.

ALPA has yet to comment on the latest developments, but previously expressed their desire to avoid a strike. Charlene Hudy, Air Canada ALPA Master Executive Council chair, stated last month that “flight disruptions are never an ideal outcome for our passengers or any pilot.”

“However, we are still not seeing the significant movement that we need to see from Air Canada, especially now that time is of the essence, and we are ready to go on strike if necessary,” Hudy added.

With the deadline looming, the potential for significant disruptions to air travel in Canada grows. Passengers are advised to monitor the situation closely and be prepared for possible flight cancellations and delays.

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