WestJet issues 72-hour lockout notice to its Tech Ops union, AMFA

WestJet issued a 72-hour lockout notice to the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) — the union that represents WestJet Aircraft Maintenance Engineers – on May 4, which means that a work stoppage could occur as early as Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at 12 p.m. MT, unless a deal is reached.

Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airline and Group Chief Operating Officer, said that: “The decision to issue a lockout notice was not one that was made lightly, and we sincerely regret and apologize for the uncertainty this causes for our guests and the communities and regions that rely on us. Despite our unwavering commitment to reach a collective agreement, AMFA continues to show up to the bargaining table with unreasonable demands and expectations.”

Pen continued: “With AMFA publicly issuing a strike vote alert last week and publicly directing guests to fly with other carriers, we can’t allow the unpredictable nature and lack of progress to continue. We are left with no alternative but to issue a lockout notice in an attempt to bring this to a final resolution.”

In a statement, the WestJet Group said that it has been in active labour negotiations with AMFA since September 2023 and that it “has presented an offer to AMFA that would make WestJet Aircraft Maintenance Engineers the highest paid in Canada, with a cumulative wage increase of over 20% across the span of the collective agreement. The offer would also deliver industry leading work-life balance standards and strong commitments to job security.”

Said Pen: “We sincerely value the work and contributions of our Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, and our proposed agreement reflects this. We are unwaveringly committed to reaching an agreement to prevent travel disruption, however, we are equally prepared to protect the travel plans of our guests and to provide long-term stability and security for all employees at the WestJet Group.”

In its statement, the WestJet Group said that issuing a 72-hour lockout notice does not mean travel disruption will occur.

However, in the coming days, the WestJet Group will take all necessary actions to manage the impacts as much as possible, including:

• Beginning preparations to operate a reduced schedule.
• Proactively managing changes and cancellations, to ensure the ability to communicate with guests in advance of their flight.
• Providing flexible change and cancel options for those who wish to make alternative arrangements.

For updates, go to  https://www.westjet.com/en-ca/guest-updates .