Next Up on the Labour Front: Porter’s Dispatchers Vote Unanimously for Strike Action
by Bruce Parkinson
Porter’s Ottawa base.
The last couple of years have seen several air travel disruptions in Canada due to labour strife, from WestJet’s mechanics in 2024 to Air Canada’s pilots and flight attendants and Air Transat’s pilots in 2025.
The next crisis could be driven by a small but essential group – flight dispatchers at Porter Airlines.
The dispatchers joined the Canadian Airline Dispatchers Association (CALDA) in August 2024 to secure a first collective agreement. After more than 14 months of negotiations, that has not been achieved, and the dispatchers have voted unanimously in favour of strike action.
“These are certified aviation professionals whose expertise directly impacts the safety of every flight. They deserve a contract that reflects the value of their work,” said Rob King, National President of CALDA.
CALDA says Porter has begun training non-union personnel as potential substitutes for the airline’s 35 certified dispatchers. It called that move “unsafe and disrespectful.”
“This strike vote reflects the deep frustration and disappointment felt by members,” said King. “Porter’s actions leave us no choice but to stand together to protect our profession and ensure the airline meets its obligations to these skilled aviation workers.”
A strike may not come to pass. While negotiations are currently ongoing through the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, CALDA says Porter has refused to engage on key issues.
The union is urging Porter to resolve the outstanding issues to avoid any service disruptions in the new year.
