Canadian airline WestJet begins canceling flights as mechanics threaten to strike
How many flights has WestJet canceled in anticipation of the strike, and how many passengers are affected by these cancellations?
WestJet has canceled about 40 flights in anticipation of a possible strike by its aircraft maintenance workers, affecting 6,500 passengers. The airline aims to avoid having passengers and planes stranded if there is a walkout. WestJet and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association are negotiating for an initial collective-bargaining agreement covering about 680 mechanics.
What steps is WestJet taking to accommodate passengers whose flights have been canceled?
WestJet is trying to find alternate arrangements for customers whose flights were canceled due to the anticipated strike by aircraft maintenance technicians2. The airline is working to rebook affected passengers on other flights within its schedule. WestJet has canceled about 40 flights from Tuesday through Wednesday, affecting 6,500 passengers. The airline aims to avoid having passengers and planes stranded in case of a walkout2.
What are the key issues being negotiated between WestJet and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association in their current collective bargaining talks?
The key issues being negotiated between WestJet and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) in their current collective bargaining talks include wages, job security, and work-life balance standards for WestJet's Aircraft Maintenance Engineers. The airline's most recent contract offer aimed to make WestJet maintenance engineers the highest paid in Canada, while the union argues that low pay is preventing the company from filling open positions.