An LOU signed in 2022 between CATCA and NAV Canada extended LOU 2019-02 (FAM Flight Trial) in the Collective Agreement. Additionally, it changed the program to have the next 3-year FAM period begin on January 1, 2025. It also introduced the ability for members to request visits to pre-approved conference destinations. This LOU, however, expired at the end of 2024. Our hope was to have been able to negotiate another arrangement or changes to the program which could address the deficiencies of the current provisions as written. Regrettably, NAV Canada has made the decision that they do not wish to renew or extend the previous agreement and we have been unable to agree on new terms. Consequently, only the destinations listed in Article 29 and Appendix C are currently being approved. The problem is, many of those destinations are not accepting official visits rendering the value of the program worthless. For many months, CATCA has been consulting with the Company to try and come up with alternate destinations that will suit both Parties. Unfortunately, NAV has taken the position that they feel the objectives of the FAM program arebeing met. As an update to the USA/long-range destinations listed in the CA, other than Paris (Reims ACC), NAV has been unable to secure official FAM visits to any of the remaining destinations listed.
We understand this is a frustrating process for all members and we appreciate your patience while we continue to address the issues with the FAM Flight Program at the National level.
We will communicate any developments as they arise.
On behalf of the Executive Board,
Nick von Schoenberg Scott Loder
President Executive Vice President