Concern from chambers of commerce in New Brunswick over a possible Air Canada labour disruption.
The airline is finalizing plans to suspend most operations before a possible pilot strike or lockout next week.
The Saint John region, Greater Moncton and Fredericton chambers of commerce have written a joint letter to the federal government.
Officials reiterated that even a short service suspension would have major consequences on the communities.
“Pilots are valued partners in our goal of growth and expansion of transportation options both domestic and international,” the chambers said in a news release on Wednesday.
“In the letter sent today, however, we express that the primary issue of our hard-earned recovery and the economic momentum finally achieved following the difficult pandemic era must take precedence.”
The chambers said a national airlines strike would have “destabilizing effects” on all forms of growth established within New Brunswick’s urban centres and the province as a whole.
“Our airports represent necessary and vital points of access for international companies, small- and medium-sized businesses, higher education institutions, health and safety services, tourism and large industries,” said the release.
“As we work to solidify all aspects of our hard-earned growth, any form of disruption to services deemed essential in our communities must be avoided and remaining issues of conflict resolved through an equitable resolution process.”
The chamber said a “uniquely Canadian resolution representing fair and sustainable compensation” is the only path forward.
The Airline Pilots Association, representing more than 5,200 Air Canada workers, could be in a legal strike position as of Sept. 18 at midnight.
That is because starting on Sept. 15, either side may issue a 72-hour strike or lockout notice.
Air Canada Express flights will continue to operate as third-party carriers Jazz and PAL Airlines provide these services.
However, these regional partners only carry about 20 per cent of Air Canada’s daily customers, many of whom ultimately connect on Air Canada flights.
