Negotiations Stall as Pilots Fight for North American Industry-Standard Contract
WestJet pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), announced that after the end of the statutory 60-day federal conciliation period yesterday, they have still not reached an agreement with WestJet management. The end of conciliation marks the beginning of a statutory 21-day cooling-off period. Upon the conclusion of the cooling-off period, the pilots could take job action or face a lockout by WestJet management, just before the Victoria Day long weekend.
While flight disruptions are never an ideal outcome for any pilot or their passengers, the WestJet pilots are prepared for any outcome. Last week’s 93 percent “yes” vote on a strike-authorization ballot sent a clear signal to WestJet management that the pilots remain united in securing a North American industry-standard contract.
“Our goal is to avoid a strike; however, after seven months of negotiating, WestJet management still fails to recognize the value and expertise we bring to our company and passengers every day. That’s why every 18 hours, on average, a WestJet Group pilot leaves our company in search of a better opportunity,” said Capt. Bernard Lewall, chair of the WestJet ALPA Master Executive Council (MEC). “We want to continue being a major contributor to WestJet’s success and help the company recognize its growth strategy, but if management leaves us no other option, we will be ready to do what it takes to fight for our careers and the future of the airline.”
The pilots’ bargaining proposals are consistent with the contracts that other pilots within North America enjoy. Unfortunately, management’s decision to cut costs has resulted in experienced pilots choosing to leave the airline.
“We need a contract to attract new pilots and retain the experienced, qualified pilots we currently have, help our company recognize its own growth strategy and make our airline a career destination again.” continued Capt. Lewall.
The Association remains committed to the bargaining process and will make their negotiators available 24/7 during the remainder the 21-day cooling-off period. On May 13, the pilots will be able to file a 72-hour strike notice, should management continue to stall negotiations, and could be in a legal position to commence job action on May 16.
ALPA will keep the public informed of any developments toward reaching a contract up until any possible strike deadline. The Association would also like to advise the public that if they have already booked a flight on WestJet Airlines from May 16 onward, they may wish to contact the airline directly to find out about the refund policy should a disruption in flights take place.
