WestJet issues lockout notice to WestJet Encore pilot union
Yesterday (May 29), WestJet issued a lockout notice to the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), the union representing WestJet Encore pilots. A work stoppage could occur as early as Saturday, June 1, at 6 p.m. (HNR), unless an agreement is reached. WestJet is taking steps to manage the potential impacts of the lockout, including preparing for a reduced schedule for WestJet Encore pilots, proactively managing changes and cancellations, and offering flexible change and cancellation options to affected individuals.
WestJet stands firm in negotiations with pilot union
The lockout notice follows the failure of the ratification process for the tentative agreement between the two parties on Friday, May 10. WestJet states that the rejected agreement offered to make WestJet Encore pilots the highest-paid regional pilots in Canada, while also providing industry-leading standards for work-life balance and professional advancement. The airline emphasizes that negotiations with ALPA have been ongoing since September 2023 and that the decision to issue the lockout notice was not taken lightly. WestJet remains committed to reaching an agreement to avoid travel disruptions while also standing firm on what they believe is reasonable in order to maintain affordable air travel for their guests and ensure job security for their employees.
WestJet hopes to avoid travel disruptions amid ongoing negotiations
Despite the lockout notice, WestJet continues to work towards a resolution with ALPA in order to prevent travel disruptions for their guests. President of WestJet Airlines and Chief Operating Officer of the WestJet Group, Diederik Pen, expresses regret for the uncertainty caused by the situation and reiterates the airline’s commitment to providing affordable air travel and job security. The airline remains hopeful that an agreement can be reached without impacting the millions of guests and communities they serve. For more information, click here.