Porter Airlines and CALDA Reach Tentative Collective Agreement for Flight Dispatchers
Porter Airlines and its flight dispatchers, represented by the Canadian Airline Dispatchers Association (CALDA), have jointly announced the successful completion of negotiations resulting in a tentative first collective agreement. The agreement marks an important milestone for both parties and reflects a collaborative, constructive, and solutions-oriented approach at the bargaining table.
The tentative agreement follows extensive discussions aimed at establishing a framework that recognizes the critical role flight dispatchers play in Porter Airlines’ operations while supporting the airline’s continued growth and operational excellence. With negotiations now concluded, CALDA will proceed with scheduling a ratification vote for its members in the coming days.
Kent Woodside, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Porter Airlines, welcomed the development and emphasized the significance of reaching an agreement.
We’re very pleased to have come to a resolution with CALDA,” said Woodside. “Flight dispatchers are an important part of our team. They perform crucial duties that directly support the safety, efficiency, and reliability of our operations, and we want them to continue doing so with a contract in place. Coming to terms on a first collective agreement often takes perseverance, and we appreciate the commitment and professionalism of everyone involved in reaching this outcome.”
From the union’s perspective, CALDA described the agreement as a meaningful step forward that establishes a strong foundation for the future relationship between flight dispatchers and the airline.
The Canadian Airline Dispatchers Association is pleased to confirm that a tentative agreement has been reached with Porter Airlines following negotiations at the bargaining table,” said Mark Yezovich, National President of CALDA. “This agreement reflects meaningful progress and a shared commitment to moving forward in a productive and respectful manner. CALDA looks forward to continuing to work collaboratively with Porter Airlines in the years ahead.”
Both parties acknowledged the role of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service, whose assistance helped facilitate discussions and support the parties in reaching a mutually acceptable outcome.
Once ratified by CALDA members, the agreement will formally establish the terms and conditions of employment for Porter Airlines’ flight dispatchers, reinforcing labor stability and supporting the airline’s ongoing expansion and operational priorities.
About Porter
Since 2006, Porter Airlines has been elevating the experience of economy air travel for every passenger, providing genuine hospitality with style, care and charm. Porter’s fleet of Embraer E195-E2 and De Havilland Dash 8-400 aircraft serves North America, including a coast-to-coast domestic Canadian network, the U.S., Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America. Headquartered in Toronto, Porter is an Official 4 Star Airline® in the World Airline Star Rating®. Visit www.flyporter.com or follow @porterairlines on Instagram, Facebook and X.
About CALDA
The Canadian Airline Dispatchers Association (CALDA) is a professional organization representing certified Flight Dispatchers who share co-authority with the Pilot-In-Command at seven major Canadian airlines: Air Canada, Air Transat, WestJet, Porter Airlines, Jazz Aviation, PAL Airlines, and Canadian North. We are the national voice for operational control professionals across Canada’s commercial aviation industry.