WestJet and the union representing its flight. attendants 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 airline announced the move at 6:35 a.m. today. The agreement will now go to WestJet Cabin Crew for a ratification vote.
“We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement that reflects the hard work and professionalism our cabin crew,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of WestJet. “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.
“With the strike now over, flight attendants will be returning to work,” said CUPE 8125 President Alia Hussain.
“If ratified, the agreement improves upon the legacy flight credit system by introducing a duty period premium that recognizes more of the work cabin crew are required to perform and increases compensation for that work. 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,” she said.
“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.”
Flight Aware reports more than 300 WestJet flights for today (Aug. 3) have already been cancelled, but WestJet should be able to get more planes in the air tomorrow and perhaps return to a normal schedule in a few days.
