Possible strike threatens in-flight meals at Toronto Pearson

Workers in the airline catering sector in Toronto could go on strike as soon as Tuesday, April 16, according to the union representing the group.

In a press release issued Tuesday (April 9), Teamsters Local Union 647 said more than 800 workers at Gate Gourmet in Toronto could take job action next week.

The workers involved are responsible for cooking, packing and delivering meals, snacks, beverages, and other supplies to planes for in-flight service.

A strike at the company could mean no food and beverages on many flights out of Toronto Pearson airport this month, the union said.

“We are in a cost-of-living crisis, but Gate Gourmet is ignoring their employees' families' basic needs and won’t agree to pay workers a living wage. We're going on strike unless this company steps up to the plate and finally acknowledges how expensive life has gotten,” said lead union negotiator and president of Teamsters Local Union 647, Martin Cerqua, in a statement.  

Workers at Gate Gourmet in Toronto are “paid well below industry standards,” said Teamsters, noting that it is seeking “to close the gap.”

The company says it slashed staffing levels since the pandemic, leading to a rise in workplace accidents as employees struggle to maintain productivity levels.

At least seven hi-lift truck drivers have been injured in the past three months, and many more since the change, says the union.

Gate Gourmet is one of the largest airline catering companies operating in Toronto.

Airlines affected by a potential strike include Air Canada, West Jet, United Airlines, Delta Airlines, TAP Air Portugal, Air India, Aero Mexico, SAS Scandinavian Airlines and Canada Jetlines, says the union. 

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