WestJet issued a 72-hour lockout notice to the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), which represents its Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. If no agreement is reached, a work stoppage could start as soon as Tuesday, May 7, 2024, at 12 p.m. MT.

“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,” said Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airline and Group Chief Operating Officer. “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.”

Since September 2023, WestJet has been engaged in labor negotiations with AMFA. WestJet has offered terms that would position its Aircraft Maintenance Engineers as the highest paid in Canada, proposing a cumulative wage increase of over 20% throughout the term of the collective agreement. This offer includes leading industry standards for work-life balance and solid commitments to job security.

“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,” concluded Pen.

Issuing a 72-hour lockout notice does not guarantee travel disruptions. However, WestJet is taking proactive steps to minimize potential impacts, including preparing to operate on a reduced schedule, managing changes and cancellations to communicate with passengers in advance, and offering flexible options for changes and cancellations.

For updates on flight status and details on travel changes and flexible options, please visit WestJet’s Guest Updates page.

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