This week, the Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) issued an urgent letter to federal ministers, calling for immediate government action to avert a potential Air Canada flight attendant strike that could disrupt flights as early as August 14. TIAC warns that a work stoppage during peak travel season would cause severe damage to Canada’s economy, tourism sector, small businesses, regional connectivity, and our international reputation as a reliable destination. The letter urges the federal government to refer the dispute to binding arbitration to ensure stability in the air transport system.
TIAO fully supports TIAC’s call. Air transport is a vital economic engine for tourism from coast to coast to coast — employing over 35,000 Canadians, sustaining a sector that generated a record $130 billion in spending last year, and contributing more than $50.8 billion to GDP. A strike now would impact the primary gateway for international visitors, harm small businesses and regional economies, and jeopardize the movement of time-sensitive goods such as medical supplies. Swift federal intervention is essential to protect our economy, our tourism industry, and the communities that depend on them.
Read the full letter here.