WestJet Encore pilots have voted overwhelmingly in favor of a strike mandate, with 97% supporting strike action if a contract is not negotiated by April 17, 2024. The pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association Int’l (ALPA), are seeking improvements in pay, schedules, and career progression opportunities. Despite initial progress during seven months of negotiation, talks have now reached a standstill, leading to the strike mandate.
The 355 Encore pilots argue that they are among the lowest-paid regional pilots in Canada and lack stability and career advancement prospects. ALPA representatives emphasize that they are striving for an industry-standard contract that aligns with their regional colleagues across the country. While the potential for flight disruptions is a concern, the union is committed to continued negotiations but will file a 72-hour strike notice on April 14 if an agreement is not reached, putting them in a legal strike position on April 17.
The vote for a strike mandate comes after a mandated 21-day cooling-off period following federal reconciliation attempts. WestJet Encore pilots are separate from the main WestJet airline but share the same parent company. The pilots are determined to secure a contract that will make working within the WestJet Group a desirable career choice. Despite management’s statements, the pilots feel that their proposals have been disregarded, leading to the need for a potential strike.
WestJet Airlines President, Diederik Pen, acknowledges that a strike authorization vote is a typical step in labor negotiations and reiterates the company’s commitment to reaching an agreement with ALPA. The goal is to address the unique concerns of Encore pilots, remain competitive within the Canadian airline industry, and ensure a sustainable future for WestJet while providing meaningful employment for thousands of employees. The company is focused on continuing to operate critical air services for millions of Canadians.
The potential strike by WestJet Encore pilots highlights the ongoing challenges faced by airline industry workers and the importance of fair labor agreements. The pilots’ determination to improve their working conditions underscores the broader issues of pay disparities and career progression opportunities within the regional airline sector in Canada. Both parties remain engaged in negotiations, with the union expressing a willingness to continue bargaining while also preparing for the possibility of strike action if necessary.
The outcome of the contract negotiations between WestJet Encore pilots and management will have significant implications for the future of the airline and its employees. The resolution of these talks will not only impact the working conditions of the pilots but also the overall operations and reputation of the WestJet Group. As both sides work towards a mutually beneficial agreement, the potential for a strike looms as a last resort option to address the pilots’ concerns and push for a fair contract that meets their needs and expectations.
