WestJet Encore & ALPA reach tentative agreement; avoid lockout

WestJet has reached a tentative agreement with the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), representing WestJet Encore pilots, on the second collective bargaining agreement between the organizations.

The agreement successfully averts a work stoppage and both parties await the second ratification vote to be put forward to membership.

On the evening of May 29, following the issuance of a lockout notice, both ALPA and WestJet returned to the bargaining table.

Following challenging, but meaningful discussions, a timely resolution was achieved, with the collective goal of avoiding the disruption of WestJet Encore operations and guests’ travel plans.

“The tentative agreement we have reached today provides an offer that is fair and sustainable, and better aligns with key priorities as identified by ALPA, while firmly adhering to the financial parameters that set a critical foundation in the original agreement,” said Diederik Pen, president of WestJet Airlines and group chief operating officer. “While we are pleased to have reached an agreement, we recognize the impact and the uncertainty a lockout notice has on our guests and our people. While our number one priority remains fulfilling our commitment to our guests, through affordable air service, we cannot compromise on what is reasonable and protects the future employment for everyone across the WestJet Group; I am confident our agreement achieves this.”