Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu has expressed the need for more information from airlines and unions to address recent claims of unpaid work within the aviation industry. The federal government recently released the initial findings of an investigation initiated six months ago in response to allegations raised during contract negotiations between Air Canada and its flight attendants’ union.
Over 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants went on strike in August 2025, leading to disruptions for numerous travelers. At the core of the labor dispute were assertions from the Canadian Union of Public Employees representing Air Canada workers that flight attendants were not receiving compensation for certain duties, such as ground responsibilities.
Under federal regulations, employers in industries like aviation must ensure that employees are paid at or above the federal minimum wage. The initial phase of the probe did not uncover evidence indicating non-compliance with these standards in the aviation sector. However, the report highlighted the need for a closer examination of compensation practices for part-time and entry-level flight attendants.
Speaking to The Canadian Press, Minister Hajdu mentioned that stories from union members about instances of incomplete compensation for delayed flights could not be fully corroborated by pay records. She emphasized the importance of detailed data from both unions and employers to thoroughly assess the situation.
While the investigation initially focused on the Air Canada dispute, it encompassed the entire Canadian aviation sector. Minister Hajdu pointed out a case in a small northern airline where potential underpayment was identified, and efforts are underway to rectify the issue.
The compensation model for flight attendants primarily operates on a credit-based system, accounting for time spent in the air, per diems, and other benefits. Although Minister Hajdu acknowledged the need to review the effectiveness of this model, it has been a longstanding agreement between most unions and airlines through years of collective bargaining in Canada.
A meeting is expected later this month in Ottawa, where airline and union representatives will gather to delve into minimum wage requirements further. The federal government has urged airlines to conduct self-audits on pay records to ensure compliance with the Labor Code.
Responding to the probe’s outcomes, CUPE expressed disappointment, suggesting that the issue of unpaid work in the airline sector seems overlooked. Minister Hajdu affirmed a collaborative approach with unions and airlines, indicating readiness to enforce compliance through penalties if necessary.
Air Canada and Porter Airlines have welcomed the investigation’s findings, asserting that their compensation structures align with the Labor Code. Discussions between Air Canada, unions, and the Canada Industrial Relations Board are expected to shed light on wage requirements and foster improved relationships in the industry.