The union that represents WestJet mechanics has called off a walkout and is ready to start negotiations with the airline again.
After months of negotiations, 670 WestJet aircraft mechanics, represented by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), were scheduled to begin their walkout as early as Thursday evening. Earlier this week, they sent the airline with a strike notice.
However, WestJet claims that in an attempt to reach an agreement, the union and the airline will return to the negotiating table in a statement released late on Wednesday.
In anticipation of a potential strike, WestJet canceled over 30 flights earlier on Wednesday, causing thousands of passengers to rush.
“We recognize the impact the initial cancellations had on our guests and our people, and we sincerely appreciate their patience and understanding during this time,” said Diederik Pen, president of WestJet.
“In returning to the bargaining table, we are committed to finding a resolution to avoid further disruption to our operations.”
Union spokesman Scott Christopherson said that all sides had decided to go back to the negotiating table and that discussions will pick back up the following week.
Members of the union had voted overwhelmingly against a tentative agreement last week, and they were against the airline’s request this week for arbitration. WestJet, based in Calgary, had asked the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to intervene with binding arbitration, whereby the labour tribunal would work out a contract between the parties — their first collective agreement — while the board could prohibit a work stoppage.
WestJet said in a statement on Wednesday night that it had received advice from the CIRB indicating it will require further time to decide whether to use binding arbitration to draft the collective agreement.
According to the airline, travelers are urged to verify the status of their flights prior to arriving at the airport on Thursday.
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