Almost as Soon as it Started, it Was Over

Maintenance personnel at Canadian carrier WestJet began their strike in the waning days of June, riding on a 97% rejection of the company's contract offer from last May.

The group, represented by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, took their employer by surprise, since they had apparently expected the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to turn down the request to strike. Unfortunately for them - and the traveling public on WestJet - the strike was approved, throwing a serious wrench in the works of everyone trying to make their way around the busy Canada Day holiday on July 1st. 

The striking mechanics had started their walkout on Friday, heading into the weekend for some stress-free rest while teeing up the company for pain: The following Monday would mark Canada Day, and a few days later its American analog, Independence Day on the Thursday to follow. Right off the bat, WestJet was forced to park 130 of its 180-strong fleet, which set off a cascade of cancellations that continued through mid-week. Early numbers started at 800 flights put off, but that quickly ballooned to and well past 1,000 as aircraft timed out and planes became grounded for their hourly inspections. Overall, Canadian media believes the strike affected more than 100,000 travelers, with the aftershocks still felt days after the end of the 48-hour strike.

“The damage to Canadians and our airline is massive, a swift resolution was necessary; we take no victory laps on this outcome but will sleep better tonight knowing further harm has been prevented,” said Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer. “We will see no further labour action coming out of this dispute, as both parties agree to arbitrate the contract in the case of a failed ratification.”

The company said that it isn't all clear skies, though, realistically telling customers that "business-as-usual flying will take time and further disruptions over the coming week as the airline gets aircraft and crew back into position".

If nothing else it's been an enjoyable thing for American aviators in the airline game to watch someone actually go through with a strike for a change. By and large, it's a pretty rare occasion, since the bureaucrats so rarely give their blessing to a walkout. It goes to add additional teeth to all those in the mediation process, too. Hopefully, for those angling for better contracts, the memory of an actual airline strike will be a sticky one execs won't forget any time soon.

FMI: www.westjet.com