Jazz flight dispatchers vote 96.4% in favour of strike action

The Canadian Airline Dispatchers Association (CALDA) says its members employed by Jazz Aviation LP have delivered an overwhelming strike mandate after concluding a week-long strike vote, signalling strong support for job action if a new collective agreement cannot be reached.

Of the 59 eligible members, 56 cast ballots, representing a voter turnout of 94.9 per cent.

Of those who participated, 54 voted in favour of authorizing strike action, amounting to 96.4 per cent support, reads a press release.

The union's flight dispatchers have been working without a collective agreement since January 1, 2026, when their previous 10-year contract expired.

CALDA says the decade-long agreement provided Jazz Aviation with labour stability but left employees falling behind financially as wages failed to keep pace with inflation and the rising cost of living.

According to the association, members are seeking a wage reset that restores the purchasing power they have lost over the past decade.

The union argues that Jazz Aviation's current wage proposal does not adequately address that erosion, leaving members disappointed with the company's offer.

“This result sends a clear message that our members are engaged, united, and prepared to stand together for a fair collective agreement,” said Mark Yezovich, national president with CALDA, in a statement.  

“After 10 years under the previous agreement, Jazz Flight Dispatchers are looking for a contract that reflects the realities of today’s economy and the critical role they play in airline operations. We remain committed to the bargaining process and hope to reach a fair negotiated settlement.”

Flight Dispatchers are certified aviation professionals who play a critical role in the safe and efficient operation of approximately 400 daily flights which operate on behalf of Air Canada under the Air Canada Express brand.

Parties are currently engaged in conciliation, which is scheduled to conclude on July 10, 2026, after which a mandatory 21-day cooling-off period will follow.

If a negotiated agreement is not reached, CALDA members could be in a legal strike position as early as 12:01 a.m. Atlantic Time on August 1, 2026.

CALDA says it remains committed to reaching a fair collective agreement and continues to be ready and willing to meet with Jazz Aviation. 

“The association’s goal is to achieve a negotiated settlement that recognizes the professionalism, responsibility, and essential role of Jazz Aviation Flight Dispatchers,” it said.

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