Share to Facebook Share to Twitter Share to Linkedin WestJet strike temporarily averted. getty Travelers planning to book a flight with WestJet airlines (Canada’s second largest carrier) can breathe a sigh of relief as the potential strike by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) has been temporarily averted. Both WestJet and AMFA have mutually agreed to return to the bargaining table, preventing further flight cancellations and disruptions.
Here’s what you need to know about the current situation and how it might affect your travel plans. Background on The Dispute WestJet abruptly announced last week that it was be canceling about 40 flights in anticipation of a potential strike by its aircraft maintenance workers on Thursday, June 20. The sudden decision was made with little warning, leaving thousands of passengers in a desperate rush to make alternative travel arrangements and igniting widespread frustration among WestJet passengers.
In a press release , the airline stated that “This action [of canceling flights] enables proactive communication with guests and crew to minimize the potential for being stranded and ensures the airline can avoid abandoning aircraft in remote locations.” It was estimated that about 670 WestJet mechanics and Tech Ops employees would be affected. The union served the airline with a strike notice following extended months of difficult negotiations.
The primary issue is the establishment of the first collective bargaining agr.
