Talks Resume, But Some Flights Canceled

Maintenance mechanics for the Canadian low-cost airline WestJet have called off their threat of a strike for the time being, as both sides agreed to return to the bargaining table. However, WestJet had already preemptively canceled more than 50 flights affecting several thousand travelers.

The 72-hour strike notice filed on June 17 was prompted by WestJet’s earlier request to the Canada Industrial Relations Board to create a collective bargaining agreement via binding arbitration. The notice was announced by the mechanics union on Tuesday, and WestJet said it began cancelling and consolidating flights on Wednesday and Thursday.

The labor board held meetings on Wednesday between the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) and WestJet management to consider several options including a possible order for arbitration. 

Labor Minister Seamus O’Regan commented, "So in the short term, there may be some flights disrupted, but I’m hoping that ? I’m hoping that cooler heads will prevail."

Which apparently they did as both sides issued overnight statements that they will try to arrive at a resolution of their differences and avoid the first-ever strike against WestJet by AMFA. The AMFA represents about 680 aircraft maintenance technicians and related skilled employees who work for seven airlines in the U.S. and Canada. The organization is seeking higher pay, additional benefits, and improved working conditions.

FMI: www.amfanational.org, www.westjet.com/en-us