Following our recent communication, which can be viewed HERE, regarding the evolving Air Canada Rouge product and operations, we have received significant feedback from members across the system. Many of you have expressed concerns about the continued expansion of Rouge flying, the increasing similarities between Rouge and Mainline service, and the long-term impact this may have on Mainline jobs, wages, working conditions, and career progression.
We want members to know clearly and unequivocally: your Union is actively engaged on this issue and shares many of the concerns being raised.
As previously communicated, we have already filed grievances relating to:
- Rouge forward cabin service levels
- Rouge premium seating specifications
These grievances were filed specifically because we believe there are important protections within our Collective Agreement that must be respected and enforced.
The language negotiated surrounding Rouge was not accidental, vague, or without purpose. It was carefully negotiated to establish limitations, distinctions, and protections between Air Canada Rouge and Air Canada Mainline.
Article 2.04 clearly states:
“The mandate of Air Canada Rouge will be limited to the market segment seeking low cost air travel. Air Canada Rouge is not intended to replace Air Canada Mainline routes Air Canada considers financially viable.”
The Collective Agreement also places explicit restrictions on Rouge premium seating, onboard service enhancements, and fleet growth, including the negotiated cap of fifty (50) Rouge aircraft unless Union consent is obtained.
These protections matter.
Equally important, our Collective Agreement provides a formal grievance and arbitration process specifically designed to address disputes regarding the interpretation, application, or alleged violation of negotiated language. That process exists to hold the Company accountable and to ensure the protections negotiated by members are enforceable.
While grievances can take time to move through the process, filing and advancing grievances is neither passive nor symbolic. It is the legally established mechanism through which Collective Agreement rights are defended and enforced under the Canada Labour Code framework.
We understand that some members are frustrated and worried about the direction the Company appears to be taking. We also recognize concerns regarding the transfer of certain flying, the growing similarities between Rouge and Mainline products, and the broader implications this may have for the future structure of our operations.
These concerns are not being ignored.
During the last round of bargaining, your Union’s opening position was to seek the integration of Rouge into Mainline operations so that all Flight Attendants would operate under one fair and equitable structure of wages, protections, and working conditions. The Company rejected that proposal.
Given that reality, enforcing the negotiated scope language and Rouge limitations becomes even more critical.
We also want members to understand that your Union continuously evaluates all avenues available to us under labour relations legislation and the Collective Agreement. However, it is important that we proceed strategically, responsibly, and in a manner that protects the long-term interests of the membership as a whole. Legal proceedings, grievances, bargaining strategies, and broader labour relations actions each carry different implications, timelines, and thresholds.
What remains constant is this – your Union will continue to:
- Monitor Rouge growth and operational changes closely
- Enforce negotiated scope protections
- Challenge violations of the Collective Agreement
- Protect Mainline flying and career opportunities
- Defend the integrity of our bargaining unit
- Prepare strategically for future bargaining and long-term protections for members
We appreciate the passion and engagement members continue to show on this issue. Member feedback is important and strengthens our ability to advocate effectively on behalf of all Flight Attendants.
This issue is not being minimized, ignored, or treated as temporary. We recognize the significance of these developments and will continue to keep members informed as matters progress through the grievance process and ongoing review.
Govern yourselves accordingly,
Your ACCEX