The union representing Air Canada pilots has expressed concern over what they describe as a “retaliatory and anti-labour” action by Scandinavian Airlines, where the incoming Air Canada CEO currently serves.
Anko van der Werff is set to transition from his current role as president and CEO of Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) to assume the same position at Air Canada by the end of January. The recent dismissal of Scandinavian Airlines Captain Mattias Åman Thiel, who also chairs the SAS section of the Swedish Pilots’ Association, has raised eyebrows.
Scandinavian Airlines confirmed Thiel’s termination to Radio-Canada but did not disclose the reasons for the decision. Both the union and the International Federation of Air Line Pilots’ Associations, representing a global pilot community of over 160,000, have called for Thiel’s reinstatement.
In a letter to van der Werff obtained by Radio-Canada, the president of ALPA Canada, representing pilots at major and regional Canadian airlines, criticized Thiel’s dismissal as “unwarranted.” The letter also highlighted the demand for Thiel’s immediate reinstatement, underscoring its significance in shaping the CEO’s relationship with ALPA Canada pilots.
An Air Canada spokesperson declined to comment on the matter involving another airline when approached by Radio-Canada. Meanwhile, SAS defended its decision, with spokesperson Alexandra Lindgren Kaoukji emphasizing the airline’s commitment to the Scandinavian labor model and collaboration with colleagues and their representatives.
Dismissal of Thiel has faced challenges, with the chair of the Swedish Airline Pilots Association, Tristan Okkonen, expressing shock over the situation. Okkonen revealed that Thiel’s alleged dismissal for traveling abroad instead of working for the union, as claimed by the employer, led to court intervention. The Swedish Labour Court is being petitioned by Thiel’s union to reinstate him and seek damages from SAS.
Okkonen highlighted the timing of Thiel’s firing following tense salary negotiations and pilot protests against overtime work last spring. The head of the Canadian pilots’ union voiced concerns about the implications of this incident on the future CEO’s rapport with employees, emphasizing the importance of trust in fostering a healthy relationship.
Plans are underway to mobilize members in support of the captain’s cause, reflecting the growing tensions surrounding the unfolding events.
