Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu has expressed the need for additional information from air carriers and unions to address recent claims of unpaid work in the airline industry. The federal government recently released the preliminary results of an investigation initiated six months ago following allegations raised during negotiations between Air Canada and its flight attendants’ union.
During a strike by over 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants in August 2025, concerns were raised by the Canadian Union of Public Employees section at Air Canada regarding unpaid work, particularly related to ground duties. The investigation highlighted that compensation practices in the airline sector generally met federal minimum wage requirements, although it pointed out the need for a closer look at compensation practices for part-time and entry-level flight attendants.
While stories of uncompensated work delays were shared by union members, these accounts could not be fully verified through pay records. Minister Hajdu emphasized the importance of receiving detailed data from both unions and employers to assess the validity of these claims thoroughly.
Despite the focus initially being on the Air Canada labor dispute, the investigation encompassed the entire Canadian airline sector. One instance of potential underpayment was identified in a small northern airline, prompting corrective action in collaboration with the government.
A credit-based model, rather than an hourly pay rate, is commonly used to determine flight attendants’ compensation in the industry. The government plans to convene airline and union representatives for a meeting later to review minimum wage requirements in depth.
While the government aims for a collaborative approach with airlines and unions, it remains prepared to enforce compliance through ordering records or imposing penalties if necessary. Airlines, including Air Canada and Porter Airlines, have expressed willingness to participate in further phases of the probe.
The negotiation process between Air Canada, the union, and the Canada Industrial Relations Board is expected to provide clarity on wage requirements and improve relationships between labor groups and employers in the sector. Minister Hajdu emphasized the importance of the board’s decision in determining the appropriate compensation framework for flight attendants.