WestJet Keeps Trade In The Loop

In a letter to the travel trade here in Canada, WestJet’s vice-president sales & distribution, Lyell Farquharson offered an update regarding the contract negotiations between WestJet and its pilots.

Farquharson writes:

“ALPA’s Master Executive Council (MEC), the union representing WestJet’’s pilots has announced that the strike authorization vote amongst WestJet pilots has passed. To support the progress being made at the bargaining table, ALPA has committed to WestJet that no industrial action will take place over the Victoria Day long weekend. This will allow the bargaining teams to meet every day next week, working towards reaching a mutually-supported agreement.”

WestJet’s VP of sales & distribution continues:

“If the MEC decides to call for a strike, they are required to provide WestJet with a 72-hour notice of the strike. Strike mandates are a relatively common collective bargaining tactic. It does not mean that a strike will take place. The strike authorization does not include WestJet Encore.”

Farquharson said as well that:

“WestJet negotiators continue to meet and bargain with the MEC and we are also working on contingency plans to minimize the impact to you, our guests. In the event your travel plans are disrupted we are offering all of our guests a full refund.”

And he closes by telling the trade:

“I recognize and appreciate the frustration this uncertainty brings. We are working diligently towards a negotiated settlement.”