The planned arbitration between WestJet and its mechanics union has hit a major roadblock, leading to a potential strike that could disrupt the airline’s operations.
According to sources close to the negotiations, the arbitration process was derailed due to a disagreement over the selection of a neutral arbitrator. The union, represented by the Aircraft Maintenance Engineers Association (AMEA), had proposed a list of three potential arbitrators, while WestJet insisted on a single arbitrator chosen by the Canadian Industrial Relations Board.
This disagreement has caused delays in the arbitration process, which was originally scheduled to begin on May 10. As a result, the AMEA has announced that its members will go on strike starting on May 19, if a resolution is not reached by then.
The main issue at hand is the union’s demand for a new collective agreement that includes job security and better working conditions for its members. The AMEA has accused WestJet of outsourcing maintenance work to third-party companies, resulting in job losses for its members.
In response, WestJet has stated that it is committed to reaching a fair and reasonable agreement with the union, but also needs to remain competitive in the highly competitive airline industry. The company has also assured its customers that it has contingency plans in place to minimize the impact of a potential strike on its operations.
This potential strike comes at a difficult time for WestJet, as the airline industry continues to struggle due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The company has already faced significant financial losses and layoffs, and a strike could further impact its recovery efforts.
Both parties have expressed a willingness to continue negotiations and reach a resolution before the strike deadline. However, if an agreement is not reached, it could have a significant impact on WestJet’s operations and the travel plans of its customers.
The AMEA has stated that it remains open to further discussions and is hopeful that a fair and reasonable agreement can be reached. Meanwhile, WestJet has urged the union to return to the bargaining table and work towards a mutually beneficial solution.
As the strike deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the negotiations between WestJet and the AMEA, as the outcome will have a significant impact on the future of the airline and its employees.
