From ALPA International to all our friends, members, and staff in Canada: Happy Thanksgiving! This weekend, as we join our Canadian colleagues to reflect on how and why we are so fortunate, we should be grateful for the generations of pilots who came before us who established and built this great union. Their legacy is ours to defend and build upon, not only for ourselves but for future generations of airline pilots.
Our union was founded on the core principle of democracy, and the achievements we have made over the decades have been through the ability to choose, solidarity, and plain hard work.
It seems fitting this year that Canada’s advance polling for the upcoming elections falls during the Thanksgiving holiday. For airline pilots who will be flying on October 19, Canada’s official Election Day, this weekend (October 9-12) provides the opportunity to participate in the democratic process at local electoral districts across the country.
It is important for ALPA members to participate as there are a number of issues that affect the Canadian aviation sector that must be addressed in order to provide airlines and employees the opportunity to be successful on the international stage. Canada’s elected leaders greatly impact these issues which is why earlier this year, we issued a new report, State of Our Skies: Canada, detailing policy solutions to help create a better business environment and improve the overall state of the industry.
ALPA pilots throughout North America are engaged and active advocates for aviation safety, security, and the piloting profession. In the face of attacks on Canadian unions and the rights of workers, it is more important than ever that the pilot voice be heard.
I extend my personal thanks to the Canadian pilots who are flying over the Thanksgiving holiday. Whether spending time with loved ones or flying the line, ALPA wishes everyone a safe and happy holiday weekend.