Bombardier strike ends, assembly of global business jets resumes

Bombardier workers have ratified a new three-year collective agreement, ending an 18-day strike at its manufacturing facilities in Mississauga and Waterloo, Ontario.

The aircraft manufacturer and Unifor, which represents the striking workers, confirmed the news in separate statements on July 10, 2024.

“Our union’s top priority in these negotiations was to reach an agreement that reflects the skills, hard work and dedication of our members that have made Bombardier’s global jet program so successful,” Unifor National President Lana Payne said in a press release.

“After a highly effective strike, I am proud to say that our members have ratified a landmark agreement that provides a major economic stimulus package at a time when aerospace workers need it most.”

The agreement includes a wage increase of 12.5 percent over the term of the collective agreement, higher pension insurance contributions and better job security, the union said.

“What changed the outcome of these negotiations and brought a fair deal within reach was the unwavering support of our members on the picket lines,” added John Turner, president of Unifor Local 112.

“The historic gains we have made with this agreement would never have been possible without strike action. It showed the company that our members would not give in until a fair agreement was reached.”

Bombardier issued a brief statement on July 11 saying the company was “committed to the location and continued success of its industry-leading Generally aircraft family for which normal assembly operations will resume today.”

Unifor Local 112 represents approximately 1,200 production and skilled workers who went on strike in mid-June, as well as 250 office, professional and technical workers represented by Local 673.

At both the Toronto plant at Pearson International Airport and the Waterloo plant, workers build Bombardier Global Series business jets.

Unifor said the new agreement also includes labor commitments and job ownership for union members “across the entire global fleet,” including the upcoming 8000 series of ultra-long-range jets and “all derivatives thereof.”

“It was critical that we secured labor rights across the entire Global Jet program to protect the jobs of our current members and the next generation of Bombardier aviation workers,” said Maryellen McIlmoyle, president of Unifor Local 673.

“Bombardier employees are dedicated and work incredibly hard. We have ratified an agreement that will provide higher wages, better pensions and a better economic future for all Bombardier employees.”