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Air Canada Suspensions Loom as Strike Deadline Approaches

Negotiations at Impasse, Mediation Set for Friday

Air Canada has warned that it may start suspending flights as early as next weekend if a strike deadline is not met. The airline and its pilots' union have been in negotiations for months, but have yet to reach an agreement. A mediator has been appointed to help facilitate the talks, but a resolution remains uncertain.

Key Issues in Dispute

The main sticking points in the negotiations are wages, benefits, and working conditions. The pilots are seeking a 15% wage increase over three years, while Air Canada is offering 10%. The union is also seeking improvements to pension and health benefits, as well as changes to scheduling and overtime rules. Air Canada has said that the pilots' demands are too costly and would make it difficult for the airline to compete.

Mediation and Strike Deadline

A federal mediator has been appointed to help facilitate the negotiations. The mediator will meet with both sides on Friday in an attempt to reach a resolution. If no agreement is reached by Saturday night, the pilots have threatened to go on strike.

Potential Impact of a Strike

A strike by Air Canada pilots would have a significant impact on the airline and its customers. Air Canada is one of the largest airlines in the world, and a strike would disrupt travel plans for millions of people. The airline has said that it will do everything it can to minimize the impact of a strike, but it is likely that some flights will be canceled or delayed.

Next Steps

The next step in the negotiations is the mediation session on Friday. If no agreement is reached, the pilots could go on strike on Saturday night. Air Canada has warned that it may start suspending flights as early as next weekend if a strike occurs.