OTTAWA — Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu is calling on Air Canada and the union representing its flight attendants to return to negotiations. She emphasized the importance of the two parties reaching an agreement independently, as a dispute has already disrupted hundreds of flights.

In an interview, Hajdu stated it is “critical” for both sides to come back to the table. She noted that the union has indicated that many of its demands have been met, suggesting a potential path to a resolution. "The union said themselves that many of their demands have been met. However, right now, they're not at the table,” she said. “It's very important that both the union and the corporation return to the table, roll up their sleeves and finish this deal.”

Hajdu's remarks came just hours before a deadline of 1 a.m. Saturday, when approximately 10,000 flight attendants could potentially strike if no agreement is reached. The airline and the union, CUPE, have exchanged blame for the ongoing stalemate. The union has rejected a request for binding arbitration, while Air Canada has imposed a lockout.

The Air Canada component of CUPE expressed a desire to avoid a work stoppage and is willing to negotiate. Meanwhile, Air Canada has requested Hajdu to intervene and direct both parties toward binding arbitration. Business groups have raised concerns about the economic impact of a prolonged dispute and have urged the government to explore all options to resolve the situation, including the possibility of imposing binding arbitration.

Hajdu acknowledged the current economic strain, stating, "This is a time for Canadians to pull together — and I expect corporations and unions to do that, too." She clarified that it is not her role to resolve the issues in the collective agreement but did not dismiss any options. "It's very important that we stay focused on the two parties. They have the primary responsibility to solve this. This is a corporation and a union who have all the tools they need, as well as tools from the federal mediation service, to get this deal done," she said.

Hajdu also noted that Canadians are watching the situation closely, expressing both empathy and anxiety. Air Canada has announced plans to cancel around 500 flights in anticipation of a potential work stoppage, which is expected to begin Saturday. The airline has assured customers that those whose flights are canceled will receive a full refund and can change their travel plans without incurring a fee.