WestJet Strike Ends, But Much Damage Is Done

July 1, 2024 Bruce Parkinson

The devastating strike by WestJet mechanics represented by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) is over. During one of the busiest flying periods of the year, the airline was forced to park 130 aircraft at 13 airports across Canada, while hundreds of flights were cancelled, impacting close to 60,000 travellers.

Now the rebuilding of the airline’s network and reputation begins.

As of 10:30 pm June 30, AMFA withdrew its strike action following day-long negotiations that resulted in another tentative five-year agreement. This time, AMFA has committed to arbitration in the case of failed ratification.

“The damage to Canadians and our airline is massive, a swift resolution was necessary; we take no victory laps on this outcome but will sleep better tonight knowing further harm has been prevented,” said Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer. 

“We will see no further labour action coming out of this dispute, as both parties agree to arbitrate the contract in the case of a failed ratification.”   

WestJet is blaming a “lack of clarity from the government and the decisions taken by the Canadian Industrial Relations Board” for allowing a strike to occur amidst the binding arbitration process. 

WestJet says it will now begin work to restore operations in a safe and timely manner. “Given the significant impact to WestJet’s network over the past few days, returning to business-as-usual flying will take time and further disruptions over the coming week are to be anticipated as the airline gets aircraft and crew back into position,” the airline said in a statement.   

“We want to thank guests for their patience during what was an uncertain and stressful time,” continued Pen. “I want to personally thank our teams of WestJetters who were equally thrust into the uncertainty, and who once again demonstrated their care, dedication and resilience.”

In a statement on its website AMFA said: “As a direct result of our members’ solidarity, AMFA was able to reach a second tentative agreement (TA2) providing substantial improvements over both the current terms of employment and the terms provided for in the first tentative agreement. TA2 provides for immediate pay increases, full restoration of the WestJet Savings Plan (WSP), and improved benefits for the employees.”

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