WestJet, one of Canada’s largest airlines, has issued a 72-hour lockout notice to its mechanics union as it prepares to reduce its flight schedule.
The notice, which was issued on Friday, comes after months of negotiations between the airline and the union, which represents approximately 3,000 mechanics, engineers, and ground crew workers.
According to WestJet, the lockout notice is a result of the union’s refusal to agree to the airline’s proposed changes to its collective agreement. These changes include a reduction in wages and benefits, as well as changes to working conditions.
In a statement, WestJet’s CEO Ed Sims expressed disappointment in the union’s unwillingness to reach a compromise, stating that the proposed changes are necessary for the airline to remain competitive in the current economic climate.
The union, however, argues that the proposed changes are unfair and would have a significant impact on its members. In a statement, the union’s president, Charles Bigras, stated that the lockout notice is a “reckless and unnecessary” move by the airline.
The lockout notice means that if an agreement is not reached within the next 72 hours, the union’s members will be locked out of their jobs and will not be able to report to work. This could result in significant disruptions to WestJet’s flight schedule, as the union’s members play a crucial role in the maintenance and operation of the airline’s fleet.
In preparation for the potential lockout, WestJet has announced that it will be reducing its flight schedule by approximately 25% starting on Monday. The airline has also stated that it will be working to minimize the impact on its customers and will provide updates on any flight cancellations or delays.
The union has stated that it remains committed to reaching a fair agreement with the airline and is open to continuing negotiations. However, if an agreement is not reached within the 72-hour period, the union has stated that it will take all necessary legal actions to protect its members’ rights.
This lockout notice is the latest development in the ongoing dispute between WestJet and its mechanics union. As the deadline approaches, both sides will continue to work towards finding a resolution to avoid any further disruptions to the airline’s operations.
