CALGARY, Alberta – WestJet is bracing for potential disruption as a new strike threat from maintenance workers looms just a week after previous negotiations resumed. The Calgary-based airline is warning that a work stoppage could commence as early as June 28, potentially affecting up to 70,000 daily passengers during the busy long weekend.
Union Negotiations and Strike Notice
The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) issued a strike notice less than a day into resumed negotiations. The union and WestJet had mutually agreed to return to the bargaining table for four days, but the negotiations quickly deteriorated. WestJet claims to have proposed a “revised industry-leading offer” that would increase maintenance worker pay by 22% over four years. However, the airline asserts that the union’s demands significantly exceed this offer and remain unreasonable.
Previous Strike Avoidance
WestJet narrowly avoided a strike on June 20, having proactively canceled about 40 flights on June 18 in anticipation of a stoppage. This preemptive move was aimed at preventing customers, crew, and aircraft from being stranded in remote locations. The last-minute decision by both parties to return to the negotiating table temporarily averted further disruption to WestJet’s network.
Executive Response
Diederik Pen, WestJet’s Chief Operating Officer, expressed frustration over the renewed strike threat. “The second strike threat is disheartening and unacceptable for our guests, employees, and the communities and businesses that rely on our service,” Pen said. “We sincerely regret the stress and uncertainty AMFA’s tactics are causing Canadians, deliberately targeting the busy July long weekend.”
Recent Labor Disputes
WestJet Group recently faced similar challenges with its regional pilots. The flight deck crews for WestJet Encore ratified a new five-year contract only after threatening strike action that could have disrupted the carrier’s operations. This contentious negotiation process highlights ongoing labor issues within the airline.
The looming strike threat by maintenance workers underscores the ongoing labor tensions within WestJet, potentially impacting tens of thousands of travelers during one of the busiest travel weekends of the year. As negotiations continue, passengers, employees, and stakeholders remain on edge, hoping for a resolution that will prevent further disruptions.