WestJet Encore Pilots Approve Agreement, Avoiding Strike
After weeks of negotiations, WestJet Encore pilots have voted to ratify a new agreement, effectively averting a potential strike.
The deal, which was reached between the airline and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), was approved by 91% of the pilots who voted. This agreement will cover approximately 500 pilots who fly for WestJet Encore, a regional subsidiary of WestJet.
The main point of contention in the negotiations was the issue of compensation. The pilots were seeking better pay and working conditions, citing the increased workload and responsibilities they have taken on during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under the new agreement, pilots will receive a 2% increase in pay retroactive to January 1, 2021, and a 2% increase in pay on January 1, 2022. They will also receive a one-time lump sum payment of 1% of their annual salary.
In addition, the agreement includes improvements to scheduling and rest periods, as well as a commitment from the airline to address fatigue management.
In a statement, ALPA President Capt. Tim Perry expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, saying, “This agreement recognizes the hard work and dedication of WestJet Encore pilots and provides them with the fair compensation and working conditions they deserve.”
WestJet Encore President Charles Duncan also expressed his satisfaction with the agreement, stating, “We are pleased to have reached a mutually beneficial agreement with our pilots and look forward to continuing to work together to provide safe and reliable service to our guests.”
The new agreement is effective immediately and will remain in place until April 30, 2022. Both parties have expressed their commitment to continue working together to address any future issues that may arise.
This agreement comes as a relief to both the airline and its pilots, as a strike would have caused significant disruptions to WestJet Encore’s operations and affected thousands of passengers.
With this issue now resolved, WestJet Encore can continue to focus on providing safe and reliable service to its customers, while its pilots can continue to do their jobs with the peace of mind that their concerns have been addressed.
