Porter Airlines will be closing its crew bases in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and Halifax, Nova Scotia, impacting a total of 60 pilots, as reported by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA). The closures, scheduled for May, are part of Porter’s growth strategy to consolidate crew bases in Toronto and Ottawa, according to a statement from the airline. This decision will involve 28 pilots in Thunder Bay and 32 pilots in Halifax, as confirmed by a spokesperson from the local ALPA branch.
The closure of these bases will have personal and professional consequences for the affected pilots, who have long been part of the Thunder Bay and Halifax communities. The ALPA’s Local Executive Council 272 expressed concerns over the lack of prior consultation with management but is prepared to engage in discussions to protect the rights of the pilots.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 4061, representing over 1,200 cabin crew members at Porter, stated that approximately 60 of its members, including 26 flight attendants in Thunder Bay, will be impacted by this decision. The affected cabin crew members will need to decide whether to commute to Toronto or Ottawa at their own expense, relocate, opt for voluntary layoff, or consider early retirement.
Despite the challenges posed by the potential commute or relocation, Sarah Seal, president of CUPE Local 4061, believes that the dedication and love for their work will motivate the flight attendants to consider their options. The decision-making process is acknowledged to be difficult, given the significant changes involved.
Efforts are being made to support the affected members during this transitional period. CBC News attempted to contact Thunder Bay Airport for comments but has not yet received a response.