WestJet Encore pilots approve agreement in principle
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Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 09/04/2024 (830 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.
WestJet Encore pilots have voted to approve an agreement in principle with the airline’s management, marking a significant breakthrough after more than seven months of tough negotiations.
Talks continue as both parties attempt to finalize the contract language, moving closer to a comprehensive tentative agreement for ratification by the pilot membership, Air Line Pilots Association executive council chair Carin Kenny said on Monday.
“Following several consecutive days of intense negotiations, substantial progress has been achieved on critical fronts such as compensation and scheduling,” Kenny said. “We are pleased to announce an agreement in principle that significantly aligns the terms for WestJet Encore pilots with those of their regional flying counterparts across Canada.”
WestJet Encore provides a non-stop route from Brandon to Calgary International Airport, utilizing Bombardier Q400 aircraft.
Kenny said progress was made when the company came around to recognizing major issues of concern to the pilots.
“Throughout the negotiation process, management’s initial reluctance to acknowledge the prevailing labour market dynamics within Canada’s aviation sector led to a notable exodus of pilots seeking better employment prospects,” Kenny said. “It is noteworthy that management now acknowledges the necessity for economic and scheduling enhancements within the contract to address the ongoing pilot recruitment and retention challenges faced by the airline.”
Wanting to avoid the adverse impact of flight disruptions on pilots and passengers alike, she added, the primary objective of the pilot group has always been to secure an agreement without resorting to a strike.
“Negotiators remain committed to the process until a tentative agreement is successfully reached.”
WestJet Airlines president Diederik Pen praised the latest development in the labour dispute.
“WestJet Encore is pleased to have reached an agreement-in-principle that recognizes the immense value and contributions of our WestJet Encore pilots, who provide critical regional connectivity for Canadians,” Pen said in a statement on Monday.
“We are pleased to have reached this milestone, enabling us to move forward with an unwavering focus on providing safe, friendly and reliable air service to our guests for years to come.”
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