Strike at Toronto Pearson Affects Airline Food Services
Over 800 workers, who play a critical role in supplying food and beverages for flights departing from Toronto Pearson International Airport, have initiated a strike. This industrial action began on Tuesday, following a decisive rejection of a final wage offer from their employer, Gate Gourmet, by 96% of voting members. Gate Gourmet is a key player in the airline catering and logistics sector.
According to Teamsters Local Union 647, the strike comes after workers agreed to a wage freeze during the challenging times of the pandemic, a move aimed at supporting the company’s survival. “Now their managers brag about how profitable their operations have become at Pearson, while proposing wage increases as low as 89 cents an hour,” expressed Martin Cerqua, the president of Local Union 647 and the lead union negotiator.
The strike is expected to disrupt the availability of onboard food services for several airlines operating out of Toronto Pearson. The airlines set to be impacted include WestJet, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, TAP Air Portugal, Air India, Aero Mexico, SAS Scandinavian Airlines, Jetlines, and notably, Air Canada, which is expected to bear the brunt of this strike.
Average wages for Gate Gourmet workers range between $17.69 and $20 per hour, which, according to the union, falls below the industry standard in the Toronto area and is less than what Gate Gourmet employees earn in Vancouver. Moreover, the union has highlighted concerns over reduced staffing levels, which they claim are jeopardizing worker safety.
Responding to the strike, Gate Gourmet Canada expressed its disappointment, emphasizing the fair and market-competitive nature of its final offer—a 12% salary increase over three years. The company has underscored its commitment to resolving the conflict and minimizing the strike’s impact on airline operations and passenger experience through established contingency plans.
Air Canada and WestJet have proactively prepared for the strike, issuing statements to assure passengers of minimized disruptions to their travel plans. Air Canada has indicated that while its international flights will remain unaffected, some adjustments to the food and beverage service on North American routes departing from Toronto will be necessary. Particularly, shorter flights under two hours will experience the most significant changes, with no hot meals and a limited selection of snacks and beverages.
Similarly, WestJet revealed that its Boeing 737 operations out of Pearson would see alterations to normal service provisions. Passengers eligible for in-flight meals on both domestic and transatlantic flights can expect alternative options or a voucher for use within the terminal. The airline also advises passengers to bring additional snacks and drinks for their journey, ensuring comfort amidst the service adjustments.
This ongoing strike cements the importance of labor negotiations in maintaining the smooth operation of essential services in the airline industry, highlighting the intricate balance between operational profitability and employee welfare.
