Release #: SPR 24.03
July 03, 2024

PAL Aerospace Pilots Ratify First-Ever Collective Agreement after Nearly Four Years of Negotiations

ST. JOHN’S—PAL Aerospace pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), have ratified their first-ever collective agreement with PAL Aerospace management. Of the 84 percent of eligible PAL Aerospace pilots who cast ballots, 72 percent voted in favour of the agreement. The three-year contract includes improved scheduling measures and working conditions, competitive compensation, stronger job-security protections, and improved benefits.

“It has been a very long process; however, I am happy we finally have ratified our first collective agreement,” said Capt. Stephen Young, chair of the PAL Aerospace ALPA Master Executive Council. “The new contract is a solid foundation for us to layer on for years to come. Each subsequent agreement will build on the successes of this one, and make our members stronger and healthier as they advance in their aviation careers.”

PAL Aerospace operates airborne maritime surveillance, managed jets and charters, and air ambulance, and supports the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard. In 2023, the company secured a new contract to provide airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support for the UK to address illegal migration and small-boat crossings.

“This newly ratified agreement improves our work-life balance as well as solidifies job security by establishing a seniority-based system throughout bases and divisions across the company. The uniqueness of PAL Aerospace operations added to the complexity of negotiations by combining multiple divisions into one collective agreement. I am proud of the work we have done to achieve our first contract, as well as what this agreement means for our pilots,” added Young.

Founded in 1931, ALPA is the largest airline pilot union in the world and represents more than 78,000 pilots at 41 U.S. and Canadian airlines. Visit ALPA Canada at alpacanada.ca or follow us on Twitter @ALPACanada.

-###-