Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu has expressed the need for more information from airlines and unions to address recent claims of unpaid work within the airline industry. The federal government released preliminary findings from an investigation initiated six months ago following allegations during collective bargaining between Air Canada and its flight attendants’ union.
During a strike in August 2025 involving over 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants, concerns were raised by the Canadian Union of Public Employees about non-compensation for certain duties such as ground responsibilities. Employers in federally regulated sectors, like aviation, are required to ensure employee compensation meets or exceeds the federal minimum wage standard.
While the initial phase of the probe did not uncover evidence of inadequate compensation practices in the airline industry, it did highlight the need for a closer look at the payment structures for part-time and entry-level flight attendants. Minister Hajdu mentioned that stories of incomplete compensation for delayed flights were shared by union members but couldn’t be confirmed through pay records due to insufficient data provided by both unions and employers.
The investigation, triggered by the Air Canada labor dispute, examined the broader airline sector. While most flight attendants are compensated under a credit-based model, concerns remain regarding the fairness and effectiveness of this system. The government plans to convene a meeting later this month with airline and union representatives to review minimum wage regulations in detail.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees expressed disappointment with the probe’s outcome, suggesting that the issue of unpaid work in the airline sector is being overlooked. Despite some airlines affirming compliance with compensation standards, questions persist about the adequacy of the credit-based pay structure.
As the investigation continues, the government aims to ensure that all flight attendants are fairly compensated in accordance with labor laws. Airlines are encouraged to conduct self-audits of their pay records to verify compliance. The government remains prepared to enforce penalties if necessary to uphold fair labor practices in the airline industry.