WestJet Encore pilots ratify collective agreement

WestJet Encore pilots have ratified a new five-year contract with pay increases that set a new standard for regional pilots and more flexible schedules to allow for a better work-life balance.

Ninety-one per cent of eligible pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), cast ballots.

Of that total, 79 per cent voted in favour of the agreement.

“The ratification of this contract is a step toward our company and our pilots working together to put the airline in a more competitive position,” said Capt. Carin Kenny, chair of the WestJet Encore ALPA Master Executive Council. “Since negotiations began, we were clear that to attract new pilots to the WestJet Group and retain the ones currently flying for our airline, we needed a contract that provides competitive compensation, improved scheduling flexibility and a level of career progression.”

In the past, ALPA says, working at WestJet Encore was recognized as the first step toward a successful career within the WestJet Group.

“We are hopeful that this contract, which is industry-leading in many ways for a regional carrier, will make the WestJet Group a desired career choice once again for pilots,” added Kenny.

The contract goes into effect immediately, with retroactive pay to Jan. 1, 2024, and will expire Dec. 31, 2028.

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