WestJet, Pilots Reach Tentative Deal, Strike Averted

Strike action by the 1,800 pilots at WestJet and Swoop has been averted after the WestJet Group and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) reached a tentative agreement on the second collective bargaining agreement between the organizations.

The next step in the process will be a ratification vote by membership.

Commenting on the tentative agreement, Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group Chief Executive Officer, said: “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.”

He continued: “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.”

The company said in a statement that it ‘is ramping up its operations as quickly and efficiently as possible,’ but it cautioned that ‘the full resumption of operations will take time,’ advising that travellers check the status of their flights before heading to the airport.

Go to www.westjet.com for more.