WestJet, CUPE issue 72-hour notices; work stoppage possible Aug. 2

WestJet and the union representing its flight attendants have issued 72-hour lockout and strike notices, bringing the airline closer to a possible labour disruption over the August long weekend.

A strike or lockout could begin as early as Aug. 2 at 12:01 a.m. MT if the two sides do not reach an agreement.

The notices do not immediately affect WestJet’s operations or guarantee that a work stoppage will occur. 

The airline and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 8125 said negotiations are continuing.

CUPE, which represents approximately 4,600 WestJet mainline flight attendants, issued its strike notice after determining that the parties remained too far apart on key issues. 

WestJet responded by issuing a lockout notice.

"We have been clear about what needs to change, and we have worked hard to reach a fair deal," said Alia Hussain, president of CUPE 8125 in a statement issued this morning (July 30).

The union said its goal remains reaching an agreement without disrupting passengers. 

It is also calling on the federal government to respect the collective bargaining process and refrain from intervening.

“There's still time to avoid a strike,” said Hussain. 

“We will continue to bargain around the clock until this is resolved. We want a fair contract for our members that recognizes the value of flight attendants’ work and recognizes our position as employees of the second-largest carrier in Canada. We look forward to further discussions with WestJet at the table so we can resolve this before August 2nd.”

WestJet prepares for possible disruptions

WestJet said issuing the lockout notice allows it to protect its network and prepare for a potential work stoppage while negotiations continue.

"The decision to issue a lockout notice, in response to the actions taken by the union, was not one that was made lightly. We sincerely regret the inconvenience and uncertainty this continues to cause for our guests," said Alexis von Hoensbroech, chief executive officer of the WestJet Group in a statement. 

"We greatly value the work and contributions of our Cabin Crew, and it is our responsibility to ensure the integrity of our network and to minimize the risk of stranding our guests, crew and aircraft. Our commitment remains at the bargaining table, where we will continue to work around the clock to come to an agreement that provides value and meaningful improvements for our Cabin Crew and is sustainable for our company."

In the coming days, WestJet said it may make flight changes or cancellations to reduce the risk of stranding passengers, crew and aircraft.

The airline is continuing to offer flexible change and cancellation policies to guests with travel booked between July 30 and Aug. 4 who want to make alternate arrangements.

If delays or cancellations occur, affected passengers will be refunded or reaccommodated, as applicable.

Travellers who booked directly with WestJet will receive updates through the email address provided with their reservation. 

As previously reported, WestJet’s flight attendants voted 99.4 per cent in favour of authorizing strike action earlier this month, with 97.3 per cent of eligible members participating.

The union and airline have been negotiating over wages, compensation, scheduling, work-life balance and other workplace concerns.

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.