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TORONTO – On International Flight Attendant Day, four hundred flight attendants and guests attended a CUPE sponsored concert in Toronto to acknowledge the important role flight attendants play on board aircraft.

“We are proud to be flight attendants. We truly do make a difference in the lives of so many people. We watch over our passengers, provide them with excellent service, and ensure their safety while they travel,” said CUPE Airline Division President Michel Cournoyer. “Because we are first and foremost in-flight safety professionals, we’re always ready to act whenever there is a dangerous situation, from medical emergencies, fires, violent passengers, evacuations, depressurisations, and more.”

“Flight attendants do a great job for passengers and they deserve respect from their employers and from the federal government,” said CUPE National President Paul Moist. “Our members can rely on CUPE to be there for them when bargaining gets tough. Across the industry, all flight attendants can also count on CUPE to defend them when the airlines and the Harper government work hand in hand to reduce the number of flight attendants on board, putting profits ahead of passenger safety.”

During the event, CUPE Airline Division announced the creation of the Silver Wings medals of bravery that will be awarded to any Canadian flight attendant having demonstrated great courage while on duty.

Held in Toronto’s Opera House, the concert featured the Juno-nominated Halifax Band ‘In-Flight Safety’. Montreal Singer Lea Sanacore performed the opening act, singing the original song “Keep You Safe” amongst others. Between the two sets, Toronto standup comedian and flight attendant Amanda Killeen presented an aviation-themed comedy act. 

International Flight Attendant Day has been celebrated on May 31st in several countries for many years. Last Sunday, thousands of flight attendants across the world marked the day. In Canada, it was the first ever celebration of International Flight Attendants Day.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees is Canada’s largest union, with over 630,000 members across the country. CUPE represents 10,000 flight attendants at Air Canada, Air Transat, Calm Air, Canadian North, CanJet, Cathay Pacific, First Air and Sunwing.

For additional information, contact:

Philippe Gagnon
CUPE Media Relations
613-894-0146
pgagnon@scfp.ca