The IAM Union (previously known as the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers – IAMAW) proudly expresses its full support for the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) and the more than 9,000 flight attendants at Air Canada in their ongoing struggle for a fair and just collective agreement.

“The IAM stands shoulder to shoulder with CUPE and Air Canada flight attendants,” said David Chartrand General Vice-President of the IAM Union in Canada. “These workers are the heart of the airline experience. They ensure passenger safety and deliver exceptional service. It’s time for Air Canada to step up and treat them with the dignity and fairness they’ve earned.”

The IAM, representing thousands of airline and transportation workers across Canada and North America, believes that strong, united unions are the key to lifting standards across the aviation industry. IAM members understand the power of collective action and the importance of solidarity when one group of workers stands up for their rights.

“We urge Air Canada to return to the bargaining table with CUPE and negotiate a fair deal,” continued Chartrand. “This is about more than a contract. It’s about respect, security, and basic human dignity for those who keep our skies safe.”

IAM calls on the public and fellow labour organizations to support CUPE members in their fight. Their struggle is not just for flight attendants—it’s a fight that impacts all workers at Air Canada, the airline industry and beyond.

For media inquiries, please contact:
Vanessa Breidy
Communications Representative
IAM Union Canada
Email: vbreidy@iamaw.org
Website: iamaw.ca

During a visit to L3-Harris on July 16th, the Canadian General Vice-President of the IAM union, David Chartrand, was presented with a scale model of a CF-18 entirely manufactured by members of the union local to recognize his commitment to defending workers and our aerospace industry.

Born from a collaboration between L3 Harris and IAM members, the base of the scale model features the names of the people involved in the project, the IAM logo, and the following message: “In recognition of David Chartrand’s involvement, IAM union leader and passionate ambassador of Quebec and Canadian aerospace.“

In response to this recognition, David Chartrand made the following statement: “It warms my heart to receive such recognition. I want to warmly thank everyone behind this initiative. Representing IAM members, defending their rights, and promoting the improvement of their working and living conditions is for me a passion, a way of life that has inhabited me for 35 years now and is still very much present.“

A member of Local 712, David Chartrand began his union involvement in 1993 as a delegate within the Bombardier unit. He has been Canadian General Vice-President of the IAM union since 2021.

IAM District 140 is pleased to report a significant arbitration victory concerning the improper reconciliation of General Holidays for union members.

In a recent decision, Arbitrator Corinn Bell ruled that Air Canada’s practice of using General Holidays as part of vacation reconciliation was a violation of the collective agreement and the Canada Labour Code. This decision restores full vacation pay entitlements to affected members and reinforces the union’s ongoing commitment to defending negotiated and legislated rights.

“The arbitrator’s decision confirms what we’ve said all along — our members are entitled to full General Holiday benefits, without reduction from our vacation pay entitlements in the Canada Labour Code,” said IAM District 140 General Chairperson Chris Lipsit. “This win is a testament to our union’s vigilance in holding employers accountable.”

The arbitration ruling ordered the employer to cease the improper reconciliation practices immediately and to provide full redress back to when the grievance was filed in May 2024, including retroactive compensation, to all affected members. IAM General Chairpersons are currently working with the employer to ensure swift and accurate implementation of the award.

Continues Lipsit “This victory not only puts money back in our members pockets but also reinforces the importance of strong collective bargaining language and diligent grievance enforcement.”

IAM District 140 remains steadfast in its commitment to protecting members’ rights and securing fair treatment for all.

The IAM Union is the leading union in the aerospace sector and air transportation industry; representing over 55,000 members across Canada, of which 22,000 work in the aviation, aerospace and air transportation sector.