Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu has expressed the need for additional information from airlines and unions to address recent claims of unpaid work within the airline industry. The federal government recently released preliminary findings from an investigation initiated six months ago following allegations raised during collective bargaining talks between Air Canada and its flight attendants’ union.
Over 10,000 Air Canada flight attendants went on strike in August 2025, causing disruptions for numerous travelers. The dispute primarily revolved around assertions by the Canadian Union of Public Employees’ Air Canada division that flight attendants were not being fairly compensated for certain duties, such as ground tasks.
Companies in federally regulated sectors like aviation are required to ensure that their employees are paid at least the federal minimum wage or higher. The initial phase of the probe conducted by Hajdu’s department did not uncover evidence of compensation practices falling below these standards in the airline industry. However, the report highlighted the need for a more thorough examination of compensation practices for part-time and entry-level flight attendants.
In an interview with The Canadian Press, Hajdu mentioned that stories from union members about instances of incomplete payment for delayed flights could not be fully substantiated by payroll records. Despite this, she emphasized the importance of receiving detailed data from both unions and employers to validate these claims effectively.
While the investigation originated from the Air Canada labor dispute, it encompassed the entire Canadian airline sector. One specific case in a small northern airline indicated potential underpayment, with the employer collaborating with Hajdu’s department to rectify the situation.
The prevailing compensation model for flight attendants in most airlines involves a credit-based system rather than an hourly rate. This model factors in flight time, per diems, and other benefits to determine total compensation, a framework that has evolved through years of collective bargaining agreements in Canada.
A meeting is anticipated later in the month between enforcement and compliance officials from Hajdu’s department, airline representatives, and unions in Ottawa to review minimum wage obligations in detail. Additionally, airlines have been requested to conduct self-audits on their payment records to ensure compliance with the Labor Code.
While some unions expressed disappointment with the probe’s conclusions, airlines like Air Canada and Porter Airlines welcomed the investigation outcomes, affirming the adequacy of their compensation structures. Furthermore, ongoing arbitration processes are in place to address outstanding wage issues between airlines and unions, with potential wage adjustments and improved pay structures being negotiated.
Hajdu emphasized a collaborative approach with airlines and unions but emphasized the government’s readiness to enforce compliance through penalties or record audits if necessary. The government remains vigilant about monitoring ongoing negotiations and expects improved labor relations within the aviation industry through clarity on wage requirements.