WestJet mechanics hit the airline with a 72-hour strike notice

CALGARY — WestJet mechanics say they are prepared to walk off the job Thursday night after the airline received a 72-hour strike notice yesterday.

The Fraternal Association of Aircraft Mechanics, which represents about 670 aircraft maintenance engineers and other skilled positions at the carrier, says it made the decision after WestJet broke off talks this week.

On Monday, WestJet asked the federal labor minister to refer the negotiations to the Canada Industrial Relations Board, which will then arbitrate the terms of a collective agreement.

WestJet President Diederik Pen says arbitration would allow an impartial third party to work out a reasonable settlement and would also prohibit work stoppages in the interim.

The union, whose members voted overwhelmingly to reject a tentative deal last week, opposes the move, saying it would undermine their goal of “an industry-changing contract.”

The airline says the strike announcement “does not mean there will be a disruption to travel”, although it remains unclear how flights might be affected by the sudden absence of hundreds of mechanics.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on June 18, 2024.

The Canadian Press