CALGARY — WestJet is the latest airline to announce a mandatory COVID-19 vaccination policy for all employees.

Following similar announcements from Air Canada and Porter last month, and Sunwing earlier this month, the WestJet Group is now requiring all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, effective Oct. 30, 2021. In addition, full vaccination status will be a requirement of employment for all future employees hired by the company.

“Protecting the health and safety of our guests and employees remains our number one priority and vaccinations are our best line of defense,” said Mark Porter, WestJet Executive Vice-President of People. “Aviation has been one of the hardest hit industries and we believe requiring all WestJet Group employees to be vaccinated is the right thing to do and ensures the safest travel and work environment for everyone in WestJet’s world.”

Employees who are unable to be vaccinated against COVID-19 due to either medical or other exemption will be evaluated and accommodated. Those who fail to attest their vaccination status by Sept. 24 or achieve full vaccination status by Oct. 30, 2021 will face unpaid leave or termination of employment. 

As part of its vaccine mandate, the airline will not provide testing as an alternative to vaccination.

Added Porter: “The WestJet Group remains committed to building back even stronger to ensure a competitive aviation industry in Canada. Requiring all employees to be vaccinated against COVID-19 is essential to the safe restart of travel across Canada.”