"Canada cannot afford another major disruption to its transportation network," warn business leaders
Canadian business leaders gathered in Ottawa, urging the federal government to take action to prevent a potential labour disruption between Air Canada and the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA).
They stressed the importance of early intervention to ensure continuity in the transportation sector, protect the economy, and safeguard Canadians' travel plans.
With air travel playing a key role in connecting Canadians, supporting travel, and enabling commerce, the group called for swift government intervention to protect passengers and prevent widespread disruptions.
Air travel disruptions could have significant effects on the economy and individuals, especially with many Canadians relying on these services. Beyond passenger travel, air cargo is crucial for delivering goods such as medical supplies, agricultural products, and essential parts for manufacturers.
A disruption could have serious consequences for industries that depend on timely deliveries.
“Canada cannot afford another major disruption to its transportation network,” said Goldy Hyder, president and CEO of the Business Council of Canada.
“A labour disruption at Air Canada would ripple through our economy, from tourism to critical supply chains. The federal government must be prepared to intervene if necessary.”
Since the pandemic, the government has emphasized protecting passengers from travel disruptions. Labour issues at Air Canada could severely impact various sectors, including healthcare, manufacturing, and tourism, which depend on reliable air transportation.
“Canadians and businesses nationwide are going to suffer the consequences of labour disruption in the air travel industry,” said Candace Laing, president, and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
“They are not at the negotiating table and are powerless to control the outcomes. We need proactive, decisive action from all actors and from the federal government to ensure we can avoid more damaging consequences for everyone.”
Karl Blackburn, president, and CEO of Conseil du patronat du Québec, highlighted the risks to Quebec businesses. He stated, “A labour disruption at Air Canada would have severe consequences for our businesses across Quebec, particularly in sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, and exports.”
Blackburn emphasized that reliable air transportation is essential for moving goods, materials, and people, adding that even a short disruption would result in costly delays and further strain on supply chains.
Dan Kelly, president, and CEO of the Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses noted the economy's fragile state following recent disruptions in transportation networks. He warned that another labour dispute would further harm Canada's reputation as a reliable global trading partner.
Kelly also emphasized the need for prompt government action to protect small businesses across the country.
September, a peak time for tourism, conferences, and events, would see the hardest hit from a labor disruption.
“Thousands of Canadians are relying on flights for critical business, healthcare, and personal reasons. Even a brief suspension will leave many stranded and further strain an already stressed tourism industry,” said Andrew Siegwart, president, and CEO of the Tourism Industry Association of Ontario.
“We need the federal government to show leadership and intervene before it's too late.”
Air Canada serves up to 120,000 passengers daily and plays a crucial role in both travel and commerce. A labour disruption would not only impact personal and business travel but also cause severe delays in sectors dependent on timely transportation, such as healthcare and manufacturing.
