Final answer:
The labor dissension at Air Canada, including threats of strikes and work slowdowns, would be classified as both a Weakness and a Threat in a SWOT analysis due to potential internal disruption and external operational challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the SWOT analysis Air Canada is performing, the threat of machinists going on strike or initiating a work slowdown if wages and benefits are not increased would be classified as a Weakness or a Threat. It is a Weakness because it indicates an internal issue regarding employee satisfaction and labor relations that can potentially disrupt operations. It is also a Threat because it represents an external challenge that can lead to delays or stoppages in service, affecting the company's ability to fulfill its obligations to its customers and potentially damaging its reputation. From historical examples and analysis, we understand that strikes can have significant consequences for a company's operations. In the case of just-in-time delivery systems, a strike can cause a ripple effect throughout the supply chain, leading to widespread operational shutdowns. Furthermore, responding to union demands by investing in machinery could lead to greater productivity, but may also result in reduced labor requirements. Thus, the labor dissent is a critical factor for Air Canada to consider in its strategic planning.