WestJet Strike Averted – Two Sides Go To Binding Arbitration – Canadian Travel News

WestJet mechanics and technical operations staff won’t be going on strike today, after the federal Minister of Labour directed the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to assist the airline and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) in reaching a first collective agreement.

The unpleasant alternative was a strike beginning on the Friday of the Canada Day long weekend, when more then 70,000 passengers are booked to fly WestJet.

The two sides will now enter final binding arbitration to resolve the outstanding terms of the collective agreement. With this process in place, a strike or lockout will not occur, and WestJet will no longer proceed in cancelling flights.

“We recognize the significant impact the initial cancellations continue to have on our guests and our people, and we sincerely appreciate their patience and understanding as we resume operations.” 

Close to 10,000 WestJet passengers saw their flights cancelled during the fractious negotiations that saw AMFA issue a 72-hour strike notice on two occasions. WestJet pre-emptively cancelled flights to avoid having planes and employees stranded in the event of a strike.

“With the government’s actions, the summer travel plans of Canadians have been protected and we have a path to resolution,” said Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer. 

WestJet says it is ramping up its operations as quickly and efficiently as possible. Guests are encouraged to continue checking the status of their flights before departing for the airport.

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