Pearson Airport Travellers Affected as Airline Caterers Go on Strike
Flight service staff at Toronto’s Pearson airport, totaling over 800 workers, have commenced a strike, potentially affecting thousands of passengers who rely on airline meals.
The union that represents Gate Gourmet employees reported a 96% vote against an offer from the Swiss-owned catering company on Monday evening.
The striking staff members are responsible for preparing, packaging, and delivering food and beverages for in-flight consumption on planes.
Gate Gourmet is the primary airline catering service in Toronto, serving major clients like Air Canada, WestJet, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines.
WestJet has cautioned that flights operating with Boeing 737 planes, which make up a significant portion of their fleet, may face disruptions in food and beverage service starting Tuesday.
Martin Cerqua, the chief negotiator for Teamsters Canada local chapter, has voiced concerns about Gate Gourmet’s failure to provide workers with a livable wage.