OTTAWA – The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) has announced that cabin crew members at Porter Airlines have officially submitted a union certification application to the Canada Industrial Relations Board. This significant step is aimed at representing approximately 1,200 cabin crew members who are part of the airline’s workforce.

CUPE's national secretary-treasurer, Candace Rennick, highlighted the substantial success of Porter Airlines as a notable Canadian enterprise. Rennick emphasized that the cabin crew, who play a crucial role in the airline's operations, deserve to partake in the prosperity generated by the company's achievements. She noted that the formation of a union could help ensure that these employees receive fair recognition and compensation for their contributions.

Notably, CUPE already represents a considerable number of aviation workers across Canada, with approximately 18,500 cabin crew members affiliated with other major airlines, including Air Canada and WestJet. The union's extensive experience in the airline industry positions it favorably to advocate for the rights and welfare of Porter Airlines' cabin crew members effectively.

Porter Airlines began its journey in 2006, establishing its operations from Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport, strategically located on Toronto’s waterfront. Since its inception, Porter has expanded its service scope significantly, now offering flights across North America. The airline has become a vital player in the Canadian aviation landscape, catering to a wide array of travelers and contributing to the country's transportation network.

The filing of the union certification application marks a critical milestone for the cabin crew at Porter Airlines. Should the application be approved, it will formalize the union representation and enable the crew to negotiate collectively for better working conditions, salaries, and benefits. The outcome of this process will be closely monitored by industry stakeholders, as it may have implications for labor relations within the airline sector in Canada.

This announcement was first made public on July 14, 2025, underscoring an ongoing movement for unionization among airline employees, reflecting a broader trend observed in various industries across Canada.

As the situation unfolds, the potential for increased representation and improved labor conditions for the cabin crew at Porter Airlines remains a critical topic of discussion among aviation professionals and union advocates alike.