WestJet reaches tentative agreement with its flight attendants

WestJet and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing WestJet Cabin Crew, have reached a tentative agreement, bringing an end to the work stoppage and network-wide operational disruption, and withdrawing both the strike and lockout notices.

The agreement will now go to WestJet Cabin Crew for a ratification vote.

In a statement, CUPE 8125 President, Alia Hussain said: “This tentative agreement represents meaningful progress. It evolves the flight credit system by recognizing more of the work cabin crew are required to perform and with general increases to compensation for that work.”

And she added “Most importantly, this agreement was achieved through collective bargaining at the negotiating table. We will now present the agreement to our members for their review and ratification vote.”

WestJet Group’s Chief Executive Officer, Alexis von Hoensbroech said: “We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement that reflects the hard work and professionalism our cabin crew.”

And von Hoensbroech continued: “We know this disruption has been frustrating for our guests and WestJetters and we’re sorry for that. Our teams are working hard to restore service and get our guests on their way to their destinations as quickly as possible and we appreciate everyone’s patience as we get back to normal.”

WestJet said it will share further details on the return to operations as they become available.

On its website, the airline advised: “While this is an important step forward, the impact of recent labour disruptions on our scheduled flights means that a full return to normal operations will take time. As we resume flying and repositioning our aircraft and crews, some flights may continue to be disrupted. We are grateful for your continued patience and understanding; our teams are working to safely restore our operation as soon as possible.”

Go to https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/get-travel-ready/advisories for more.