CALGARY — WestJet has confirmed that as of June 30 at 10:30 p.m. (MT), the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) withdrew its strike action.
According to WestJet’s latest statement, sent at 11 p.m. (MT) on June 30, AMFA members have returned to work as scheduled to immediately start work to restore the network.
The airline and AMFA resumed talks earlier on June 30 for the first time since June 27, despite a stalemate on the intent of the Minister’s order for binding arbitration.
They did so to reach a tentative agreement and prevent further damage to the Canadian public.
“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.”
WestJet’s statement notes that “lack of clarity from the government and the decisions taken by the CIRB allowed for a strike to occur amidst binding arbitration. With no path forward to resolution, both parties made essential movements to find common ground and achieve an agreement.”
WestJet was forced to park 130 aircraft at 13 airports across Canada, in response to the strike. At last count the number of flight cancellations reached 832.
WestJet is now restoring operations in a safe and timely manner. The airline says that “given the significant impact to WestJet’s network over the past few days, returning to business-as-usual flying will take time and further disruptions over the coming week are to be anticipated” as the airline gets aircraft and crew back into position.
“We want to thank guests for their patience during what was an uncertain and stressful time,” said Pen. “I want to personally thank our teams of WestJetters who were equally thrust into the uncertainty, and who once again demonstrated their care, dedication and resilience.”
Travellers are advised to check the status of their flight prior to leaving for the airport. See WestJet’s Guest Updates page for information regarding flight status and more.
