Fair Agreements for Canadian Pilots

Open Time Leverage

Open Time Leverage
Many airlines rely heavily on voluntary open time — paid at multiples of regular credit— to keep the schedule moving.
We all understand why pilots take open time. No one is being judged for doing so, but we need to be clear: open time is not just extra pay. It’s operational stability for the airline.
When open time is always covered, management sees a system that works. As a result, staffing gaps are ignored as there is no reason to make changes. It works because we make it work.

Leverage During Negotiations
If the operation depends on volunteer flying, that dependence is our leverage, but only if it’s recognized by management.
Even a modest slowdown changes everything:
• Operational strain comes into focus
• Executive focus sharpens
• Bargaining posture shifts
The intention here is not about disruption. It’s about letting executive leadership understand that we DO have leverage and can use it at our discretion.

Short-Term Premium vs. Long-Term Gains
It is recognized that open time adds income this month but it’s of utmost importance to look beyond the next 30 days. Long term career gains such as better pay, work rules and retirement contributions are permanent and compound over time.
Open time is temporary and may see gains a few hundred extra dollars in a given month. More importantly however, permanent contract improvements can net hundreds of thousands over the course of a career. A short period of restraint can secure lasting value for decades.

 Leadership Matters
This effort doesn’t succeed through messaging alone, it requires leading by example. Senior pilots, particularly those less financially dependent on premium flying, are in the strongest position to set that example. When respected captains demonstrate restraint, it builds confidence across the list and reassures junior pilots that participation is widespread.

Final Thoughts
When employing such efforts, it is understood that these are not indefinite sacrifices. Professional discipline is vital when leverage has the most impact. Conduct yourselves accordingly when it has the most impact.
During such efforts, ask yourself: what’s worth more to me; a little extra income this month, or improvements that define the next decade?
Even a modest slowdown will be noticed — and it will be understood.

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