In a significant victory for labor rights at Vancouver International Airport, airline food service workers have overwhelmingly ratified a new contract that delivers substantial wage increases and improved working conditions. The agreement, approved by 99% of voting members, marks the culmination of months of tense negotiations and reflects growing worker leverage in Canada’s post-pandemic aviation industry.
Nearly 400 employees at Gate Gourmet, who prepare in-flight meals for major carriers including Air Canada, British Airways, and Cathay Pacific, will see their pay increase by 14% over the four-year contract term. The deal also includes enhanced health benefits, increased vacation entitlements, and improved shift premium structures.
“This contract recognizes the essential role these workers play in the airline industry ecosystem,” said Thom Kirkham, president of Unifor Local 2002, which represents the employees. “After enduring pandemic-related layoffs and returning to a dramatically changed workplace, our members stood firm for fair compensation and respect.”
The new agreement addresses several key pain points that workers had identified during negotiations. Beyond wage increases, the contract includes provisions for improved scheduling practices, expanded seniority rights, and increased employer contributions to the group RRSP plan.
Industry analysts note this settlement reflects broader shifts in Canada’s labor landscape, where worker shortages and inflationary pressures have strengthened negotiating positions across multiple sectors. The aviation industry, which faced significant disruptions during COVID-19, has been particularly affected by these dynamics.
“Companies are recognizing that staff retention is critical to operational stability,” explained Dr. Maryam Chen, labor economist at the University of British Columbia. “The costs of training new employees often exceed the investments needed to properly compensate existing staff, especially in specialized roles like airline catering.”
Gate Gourmet, which operates in over 60 countries worldwide, has faced similar labor challenges across its global operations. The company acknowledged the agreement provides stability for its YVR operations while ensuring continued quality service to airline partners.
For workers like Jaspreet Singh, a 12-year veteran at the company, the new contract represents overdue recognition. “We prepare thousands of meals daily under tight deadlines and strict safety protocols. During the pandemic, many of us worried about our futures. This agreement gives us some security and acknowledges our contributions.”
The contract’s ratification comes as Vancouver International Airport continues its post-pandemic recovery, with passenger volumes approaching pre-2020 levels. Airport officials have highlighted the importance of all airport workers—from security personnel to food service staff—in maintaining YVR’s reputation for customer service excellence.
As airports and airlines navigate ongoing operational challenges, from staff shortages to rising costs, the question remains: will this agreement set a precedent for similar settlements across Canada’s aviation sector, or is it an isolated victory in an industry still searching for stable footing?
