WestJet reaches tentative agreement with pilots and strike is dismantled

WestJet Group and ALPA (Air Line Pilots Association), the union that represents the pilots of WestJet and its subsidiary Swoop, have signed a tentative agreement in relation to the second collective bargaining process that has been ongoing for 8 months, which will now be put to a vote by its members.

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This occurs just hours before the strike announced earlier this week for this Friday is set to begin, demanding better scheduling of hours, the definition of a career plan, and the reduction of the wage gap with their American counterparts, among other things.

The union asserted that WestJet’s uncompetitive wage benefits are causing a hemorrhage of pilots, with around 30 per month leaving the company, which could lead to losing 20% of its workforce by next year.

«The WestJet Group is pleased to have reached a tentative agreement that is industry-leading within Canada and recognizes the important contributions of our valued pilots by providing meaningful improvements to job security and scope, working conditions and wages«, said Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of WestJet Group.

«We appreciate we were able to arrive at a deal, however, recognize the impact on our guests and we sincerely appreciate their patience during this time. We are pleased to now return our focus to providing friendly, reliable and affordable air service to Canadians for years to come«, he added.

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In preparation for the strike, WestJet had cancelled dozens of flights to prevent their planes from being stranded at remote bases. Now, the airline has indicated, they are resuming their operations as quickly and efficiently as possible, although returning to 100% will take time, so they recommend passengers check the status of their flights before heading to the airport.