by Jen Mallia
Last updated: 8:50 AM ET, Mon December 15, 2025
A strike by Ottawa airport workers lasted less than a day before employers agreed to their demands. Employees of Gate Gourmet, represented by the Teamsters Union, were looking for a wage increase, more hours and better benefits.
“The workers preparing in-flight meals for the Prime Minister, the Ottawa Senators, and the flying public are on strike because they can’t afford to feed their own families” said Martin Cerqua, President, Teamsters Local Union 647 when the strike began. “Our members want to work and take pride in what they do, but refuse to be exploited. If flights are disrupted or passengers go without food, that’s the direct result of Gate Gourmet choosing poverty wages over a fair deal,”
The strike began at 12:01 am local time on Sunday, Dec. 14 and concluded within 13 hours.
The company is the largest airline catering company that operates out of the Ottawa International Airport. They cook, package and deliver in-flight meals, beverages, and supplies for departing flights, The strike was expected to cause delays as the work was disrupted, possibly leading to crew time overages, which would lead to longer delays for passengers during holiday travel.
According to the union, the new 3-year agreement includes at least 10 percent in wage increases, and guarantees a pathway to at least $20 per hour for all workers. Workers also won scheduling improvements, guaranteeing more workers full time work, as well as pension improvements and more paramedical coverage.
“This shows the power of a union and the power of a strike. Our members stood together and made it clear that they deserve fair wages and respect for the work they do every day,” said Cerqua at the end of the strike. “They are extremely pleased with the gains we’ve achieved. Everyone is looking forward to getting back to work and serving Ottawa’s flying public.”
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