Canadian North has recently let go about 15 of its Boeing 737 pilots, as reported by the union representing these pilots. The announcement of these layoffs came at the conclusion of the initial week of negotiations between the union and the company, according to Steven Bard, the chairperson of the Canadian North Master Executive Council. Bard expressed that the news was disheartening and that the union stands ready to provide support to the affected pilots.
The reduction in flight operations has been cited as the reason behind the layoffs. Canadian North’s spokesperson, Hance Colburne, explained that this decrease is linked to the transfer of the Montreal–Kuujjuaq route to Air Inuit and the completion of work on the Kitimat LNG project in British Columbia. The completion of the phase 1 of LNG Canada’s $40-billion project, which saw the first shipment of liquefied natural gas (LNG) for export in June, has also impacted flight operations.
While the proposed phase 2 of the LNG Canada project awaits approval, there has been a significant delay in its progress. Colburne emphasized that the recent acquisition of Canadian North by Exchange Income Corporation is not connected to these operational changes. He assured that the cuts do not affect employment or flight services in the northern regions.
Despite this assurance, concerns have been raised by a Canadian North flight attendant who fears that the layoffs may have broader repercussions within the company. The flight attendant highlighted the potential impact on northern flights due to staff shortages, especially as flight attendants from Ottawa often step in to cover positions in northern regions.
Negotiations are ongoing for the seventh collective agreement between the union and approximately 240 pilots at Canadian North. Bard expressed optimism about the negotiations, noting that the airline seems to acknowledge the importance of retaining its pilots. The union aims to secure a fair contract that meets industry standards to prevent pilot attrition to other airlines and establish Canadian North as a preferred career destination for pilots in Canada. Additionally, the union is developing a support program for the affected pilots.