WestJet Mechanics & Engineers Vote Down Tentative Agreement – Canadian Travel News

The union representing WestJet Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and other technical operations employees has announced that its membership has rejected a tentative agreement reached on May 5. 

While stressing that the results of the ratification do not impact operations at this time, Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer, said the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) has turned down a “fair” deal.

“The failed ratification of the tentative agreement by our Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and other Tech ops employees under the bargaining unit is deeply concerning after what was a lengthy and challenging negotiation process with the union,” Pen said.  

“The tentative agreement was fair, offered substantial improvements and would have made them the best paid Aircraft Maintenance Engineers in the country. It was also reflective of our commitment to addressing their priorities, while balancing what is financially sustainable for our business.”

In early May, WestJet issued a 72-hour lockout notice to AMFA members. At the time, WestJet was planning schedule reductions and the union was using social media to warn the public about potential delays and disruptions. The tentative agreement came shortly after.

“We are committed to meeting with AMFA to determine next steps, although it is important to realize that the financial scope of the first tentative agreement must remain intact,” said Pen. “Our goal remains to find a viable and reasonable path forward.”

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Bruce Parkinson has been writing about the Canadian and international travel industries for more than 25 years.