Following a challenging negotiations process with the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), the union representing WestJet Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and other Tech Ops employees, WestJet made a formal request that the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) and Minister of Labour intervene under the Canada Labour code, on Monday June 17, 2024. This process would refer both WestJet and AMFA to arbitration for a first collective agreement and would allow an unbiased third-party to issue a collective agreement that would be binding on both parties. It would also prevent any labour action by either party.
In response to WestJet’s request, AMFA issued a 72-hour strike notification, indicating intent for a work stoppage as early as Thursday, June 20 at 7:00 p.m. MT. This 72-hour notice does not mean travel disruption will occur.
“Requesting intervention on behalf of the CIRB and Minister of Labour under the Canada Labour Code allows an unbiased third-party to issue a reasonable collective agreement,” says Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Chief Operating Officer. “Through this process we aim to avoid disruption and ensure a fair and impartial resolution, providing certainty to our guests and the communities we serve who are relying on us to fulfill their summer travel plans, as well as providing stability and security for all employees at the WestJet Group.”