The union representing Air Canada flight attendants deeply regrets that hundreds of its members are among the layoffs announced today at the airline.
“Our members have been through so much in the past few months as a result of COVID-19, and to see so many lose their jobs because of it is nothing short of heartbreaking,” said Wesley Lesosky, the President of the Air Canada Component of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). “We will keep fighting for our members who continue to fly and making sure those who are facing layoffs get the support they need in the weeks and months ahead.”
Today’s announcement brings the total number of flight attendant layoffs to 6,800 including those announced by the airline on March 19.
The union continues to demand that the airline provide flight attendants with long-sleeve disposable gowns, fit-tested N95 masks, and fitted gloves during flights to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
CUPE National President Mark Hancock has also sought and received assurances from Finance Minister Bill Morneau that federal support for the airline sector will prioritize workers.