TRANSPORTATION DISTRICT 140 – IAM Union Stands United Following CIRB Ruling, Plans Judicial Review

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Toronto, ON – November 18, 2025: The IAM Union, previously known as the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), has received the full decision from the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) regarding the Board’s ruling to split the IAM’s certification at Air Canada.

In its decision, the CIRB reaffirmed its earlier position, dismissed submissions filed by AMFA, and issued strong criticism of AMFA’s use of exaggerated claims, hyperbolic language, and hostile rhetoric throughout the process. The Board also expressed serious concern over the timing and coordination of Section 37 complaints filed in the months leading up to the certification application, noting clear indications that efforts were made to undermine the IAM from within.

Despite the implications of this ruling, the IAM stresses that the unity, strength, and history of solidarity among its Air Canada membership remains unshaken. “This decision does not diminish what our members have built,” said IAM General Vice-President, David Chartrand. “For more than 80 years, IAM members at Air Canada have stood together to improve their working conditions, protect their rights, and raise standards across the aviation sector. That legacy remains strong.”

The IAM has already initiated its reconsideration application to the CIRB and is preparing a judicial review to the Court of Appeal. Representation for all affected members continues without interruption, and the Union remains firmly positioned to advance its mandate with purpose and determination.

“What has not changed, and will never change, is the value of the work our members perform,” said IAM Canadian General Vice-President David Chartrand. “Through every challenge in our history, it has been our solidarity that has carried us forward. This moment is no different. We will meet it together, and we will emerge stronger than ever.”

The IAM remains focused on achieving an industry-leading collective bargaining agreement in 2026 and will continue to provide members with updates as developments unfold.

In Solidarity, always,

The IAM Leadership

About the IAM

The IAM Union is one of the largest and most diverse labour unions across North America, representing workers in air transportation, manufacturing, aerospace, and a wide range of sectors. The IAM has represented workers at Air Canada for more than eight decades.

Media Contact:

Keith Aiken – IAM Union Airline Coordinator – kaiken@iamaw.org

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IAM Canada – Bearskin Ramp Members Ratify 3-Year Deal with Strong Improvements

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IAM members working on the ramp at Bearskin Airlines in Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout have voted in favour of a new three-year collective agreement that secures financial improvements and enhanced working conditions.

Highlights of the agreement include a 2.4% wage increase on ratification, followed by 2.2% in Year 2 and 2% in Year 3. Members will also receive a signing bonus of $300 for full-time employees and $100 for part-time employees.

The deal introduces an On-Call Deicing premium of $30 per day for those on the list, increased pension contributions after 15 years of service, and enhancements to boot allowance and cold weather gear.

“This deal addresses key issues our members raised, from fair compensation to better support in difficult weather conditions,” said Chris Greniuk, General Chairperson at IAM Union. “It’s a solid step forward that recognizes the value and commitment of our ramp workers.”

This deal strengthens protections and support for ramp workers, reflecting the IAM union’s ongoing commitment to their safety and well-being.

IAM Canada – Flight Attendants at Wasaya Airways Ratify New Deal

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IAM-represented Flight Attendants at Wasaya Airways in Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout have ratified a three-year collective agreement that includes significant wage increases, cost-of-living protection, and quality-of-life improvements.

The new contract introduces a new pay scale with Consumer Price Index (CPI) protection, ensuring wages adjust alongside inflation. Members will receive a 4% increase on ratification, followed by 1.5–3% increases in Years 2 and 3, tied to the Ontario CPI.

Other highlights include enhanced pension contributions based on years of service, 10 federal sick days with the option to cash out up to 5 unused days annually, increased per diems and shoe/boot allowances, and a new additional day off in a 28-day block after 5 years of service.

“This agreement recognizes the demanding work our flight attendants do and the challenges they face,” said Chris Greniuk, General Chairperson at IAM Union. “We’re proud to secure not only fair pay increases and inflation protection but also improvements that support their well-being and work-life balance.”

With this agreement, IAM members continue to make progress toward fair compensation and a safer, more supportive workplace.