WestJet ramping up after reaching deal with pilots, but warns it will take time
CALGARY –
The WestJet Group says it is ramping up operations as shortly as doable after reaching a last-minute take care of the airline’s pilots to avert a strike.
However, it warns that the complete resumption of operations will take time and inspired travellers to proceed to test the standing of their flight earlier than heading to the airport.
WestJet and the Air Line Pilots Association introduced a tentative settlement to keep away from the job motion early Friday morning.
The airline had grounded the majority of its fleet Thursday, together with for its Swoop subsidiary, forward of the strike deadline.
The shutdown affected dozens of routes inside Canada and to the U.S. and abroad, whereas flights on the WestJet Encore regional service and the WestJet-owned Sunwing Airlines have been unaffected.
WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech mentioned the settlement with the pilots supplies “meaningful improvements to job security and scope, working conditions and wages.”
“We appreciate we were able to arrive at a deal, however, recognize the impact on our guests and we sincerely appreciate their patience during this time,” he mentioned.
Bernard Lewall, who heads the Air Line Pilots Association’s WestJet contingent, had mentioned the employees’ points revolved round pay, job safety and scheduling, with pilots incomes roughly half of what a few of their U.S. counterparts make.
In a press release, Lewall mentioned union leaders consider the tentative deal “delivers on the goals of better job security, enhanced compensation, and more flexible schedules to allow for a better work/life balance consistent with collective agreements other ALPA-represented pilot groups are signing with their employers.”
“This contract will also help solve many of WestJet’s pilot attraction and retention issues, benefiting everyone involved from our company to our passengers and fellow employees.”
This report by The Canadian Press was first printed May 19, 2023
