LOA

[ihavecontrol]

Just wondering if it's possible to take a leave of absence from Air Canada if you're working there (eg. want to go back to school). Are there any conditions and what happens to your seniority (do you get to keep it)?

[tonysoprano]

Not sure what the status is these days, but during CCAA they were giving out LOAs for up to five years in duration. Yes, you get to keep your seniority but you have to pay for your benefits.

[ihavecontrol]

Thanks.

[babybus]

Pretty much the only way that you will get a LOA as a pilot at AC is if there is a surplus such as during ccaa or a downturn.Don't expect to get one especially in a time of growth when they are always short of pilots.

[Hadji Ramjet]

Not entirely true, a pilot in YVR was given a year off to work on a music career. Maybe it helps if you have boobs and wear a miniskirt?

[Lost in Saigon]

I have heard of other "Special Cases" as well. Each request would be reviewed on it's own merits.

Currently there are 31 pilots on LOA, but I think many of them were given 5 year LOA's during CCAA when the layoff's happened. Many of them will expire soon they will be forced to return or give up their number.

[Hadji Ramjet]

Bill C-40 will change all of that if you're military reserve, assuming the government doesn't fall before the Bill receives Royal Assent.