For Immediate Release

MISSISSAUGA, ON – June 2, 2026 – The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) has been certified by the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) as the bargaining agent for Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) and related skilled trades at Ornge Air, following a 98.5% majority vote in favor of AMFA.

“There is a major trade-specific labor movement occurring across North America,” said Bret Oestreich, AMFA National President. “This result reflects a broader shift in our industry—aircraft maintenance professionals are demanding representation that aligns with their skills, responsibilities, and safety-critical role. AMFA’s proven track record across North America shows that a one-craft union delivers the strength, focus, and results these professionals expect from their union. Our continued growth in Canada demonstrates that AMEs are seeking a stronger, more focused voice, and AMFA provides that platform—one dedicated entirely to the aviation maintenance profession.”

“We are pleased to welcome the Ornge AMEs and skilled trades group,” Oestreich added. “We are honored to provide these professionals with a meaningful voice as stakeholders and to support their pursuit of democratic representation. This certification is a milestone for Ornge and part of a broader shift toward craft-specific representation, transforming labor relations in aviation. Ornge now joins a growing AMFA family, including Southwest Airlines, Alaska Air Group (Alaska, Hawaiian, and Horizon), L3 Harris MAS, Sun Country Airlines, WestJet Airlines, Jazz Aviation (Line and Technical Services), and Calm Air.”

This is AMFA’s sixth successful certification effort in representing aviation maintenance professionals in Canada. With more than 100 aerospace and defense contractors, approximately 550 licensed air carriers, and an estimated 17,000 AMEs nationwide, the demand for trade-specific representation continues to grow as additional airlines, maintenance and repair organizations, and aerospace employers seek to align with AMFA.

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The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association is a craft-oriented, independent aviation union representing Aircraft Maintenance Technicians/Engineers and related skilled trade groups in the aviation industry. These professionals work directly on aircraft, components, support equipment, and facilities. AMFA is committed to elevating the professional standing of technicians/engineers while achieving progressive improvements in wages, benefits, and working conditions for the skilled professionals it represents. For more information about AMFA visit www.amfanational.org.