WestJet Faces Impending Strike Across Canada, May 19, 2023

WestJet, one of Canada’s major airlines, is currently facing the possibility of a nationwide strike, set to commence from 1 a.m. on Friday, May 19, 2023. The 72-hour strike notice was issued by the WestJet and Swoop union, leading to concerns over the disruption this may cause to the airline’s operations and the inconvenience it may pose to travellers. In response to the strike notice, WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech expressed regret over the situation and emphasized the company’s commitment to resolving the labour dispute through negotiations.

The WestJet and Swoop union has stated that improved schedules, job security, and increased compensation are the primary reasons behind the strike. They claim that over the past 18 months, more than 340 pilots have left WestJet to join other carriers, indicating a need for better working conditions and compensation packages. The union is pushing for a fair agreement addressing these concerns to ensure its members’ long-term stability and satisfaction.

WestJet maintains that it has presented a generous contract proposal that, if accepted, would make its first officers and captains the highest-paid pilots in Canada while offering substantial job security. The airline emphasizes its commitment to providing a safe and reliable network, expressing concerns over the potential risks of stranding passengers, crews, and aircraft during the strike. WestJet acknowledges the inconvenience caused by the labour dispute and reiterates its dedication to working toward a mutually agreeable resolution at the bargaining table.

The strike’s timing, coinciding with one of the airline’s busiest seasons, could significantly impact travellers across Canada. With WestJet’s recent acquisition of Sunwing Vacations and the company’s steady recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, a strike at this juncture poses a considerable challenge. WestJet has stated that it will refund any tickets affected by the strike, aiming to mitigate customer inconvenience.

This is not the first time WestJet has faced a labour dispute resulting in a strike. In May 2018, the airline experienced its first-ever pilot strike, which lasted two days. The company faced numerous flight cancellations and disruptions during that time, affecting thousands of passengers. The strike was eventually resolved, and WestJet worked towards improving its relationship with the pilots’ union, emphasizing the importance of open communication and fair negotiations.

As negotiations continue, a reasonable agreement is hoped to be reached to avert the strike and minimize the disruption to passengers and the airline’s operations. It’s important that both sides know that no one gets everything the want in a negotiation, but they get something they need. With that hope, both sides can come to an amicable agreement before the strike deadline.