Porter Airlines will be shutting down its crew bases in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and Halifax, Nova Scotia, in May as part of a significant growth strategy, according to a spokesperson. The move will impact approximately 60 employees across both cities, including 26 flight attendants in Thunder Bay and 28 pilots in Thunder Bay, along with 32 pilots in Halifax. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 4061, representing over 1,200 cabin crew members at Porter, expressed deep disappointment over the decision.
Sarah Seal, president of CUPE Local 4061, stated that the news was distressing for the affected employees and their families, particularly the flight attendants in Thunder Bay who are passionate about their work and community. The closure in Thunder Bay will affect 66 crew members, including those not represented by CUPE. The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) Local Executive Council 272, which represents Porter pilots in Thunder Bay, Halifax, and Vancouver, highlighted the personal and professional disruption caused by the closure.
The union was not consulted about the closures, and a spokesperson emphasized the significant contributions of Porter pilots to the company’s success over the years. Crew bases will now be consolidated in Toronto and Ottawa, reflecting changes in Porter’s network. Employees will have the option to commute to Toronto or Ottawa at their own expense, relocate, opt for voluntary layoff, or consider early retirement.
CUPE Local 4061 is advocating for changes to Porter’s commuting policy to alleviate the financial burden on employees. The union is providing support to affected workers while acknowledging the impact of the closures on local communities. Porter Airlines stated that most employees are expected to remain in their current communities despite the change in work base. CBC News has contacted the Thunder Bay Airport for comments on the matter.
Porter Airlines embarked on this restructuring as it continues to evolve its operations to align with its current network dynamics. The Thunder Bay crew base was established in 2018, but consolidating crew bases in Toronto and Ottawa is deemed the most efficient approach moving forward. The company emphasized the importance of its team members and their ongoing commitment to maintaining operations amidst these changes.