WestJet has given a 72-hour lockout notice to the union representing its mechanics and warns that a work stoppage could occur as early as Tuesday.
The Calgary-based airline says in a statement that the decision follows the announcement of a strike vote by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), which represents approximately 670 aircraft maintenance engineers and trade groups. specialized carrier trades.
The union is currently negotiating its first collective agreement with the airline and has warned travelers in social media posts against booking with WestJet in the near future, “as a work stoppage could result in unwelcome delays and disruptions.” “.
Wages, outsourcing, hours and protection against layoffs were cited by the union as issues in the negotiations.
WestJet President Diederik Pen said in the airline’s statement that the decision to issue lockout notice was not taken lightly, but that the union continues to come to the bargaining table with what he calls “unreasonable demands and expectations.”
The release said WestJet presented an offer to the union that would make WestJet maintenance engineers the highest paid in Canada.
“As AMFA publicly issued a strike vote alert last week and publicly asked its guests to fly other carriers, we cannot allow unpredictability and lack of progress continue. We have no choice but to issue a lockout notice in an effort to reach a final resolution,” Mr. Pen said in the statement.
WestJet clarified that the 72-hour lockdown notice does not mean travel will be disrupted. But the company said it would take steps in the coming days to mitigate any possible impact, such as preparing to operate a reduced schedule and offering flexible change and cancellation options to customers.
The strike vote will continue until Thursday.