Strikes at WestJet cancelled, more than 30 flights already cancelled – AeroTime

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Strikes by WestJet mechanics have been called off after the airline and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) agreed to return to the negotiating table.

WestJet has already cancelled dozens of flights in advance of the strikes and is now working to resume normal operations as quickly as possible.

Canada’s second-largest airline confirmed in a statement that the union had withdrawn its strike notice and that both parties had agreed to seek a solution.

About 670 WestJet aircraft mechanics were scheduled to strike starting at 7:00 p.m. local time on June 20, 2024, after notifying the airline of their intention earlier this week.

In response, WestJet canceled more than 30 scheduled flights and thousands of passengers faced last-minute cancellations.

“We recognize the impact the initial cancellations have had on our guests and our employees, and we sincerely appreciate their patience and understanding during this time,” said Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Group COO. “As we return to the negotiating table, we are committed to finding a solution to avoid further disruption to our operations.”

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An update from Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer, on preparations for industrial action on behalf of aircraft maintenance technicians and tech ops employees. pic.twitter.com/KBtavSHe90

— WestJet (@WestJet) June 19, 2024

WestJet said in the statement that the company appeared before the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to discuss the airline’s arbitration request.

CIRB has indicated that more time and submissions from both parties will be required before a decision can be made as to whether a solution can be found in arbitration.

In the meantime, WestJet and the union have decided to resume negotiations.

In a statement on June 19, 2024, AMFA said: “WestJet management is refusing to negotiate after union members overwhelmingly (97.1%) voted against their tentative agreement. We have no alternative but to strike and apologize for the inconvenience and disruption this will cause to passengers.”