WestJet has begun to cancel and consolidate flights as it prepares for a planned strike action by its aircraft maintenance engineers and other tech ops employees, the carrier announced Wednesday.
WestJet canceled about 40 flights on June 18 and 19 as it works to park aircraft in a phased approach, according to the carrier. Guests traveling are advised to check the status of their flight prior to leaving for the airport.
The carrier on June 17 made a formal request that the Canadian Industrial Relations Board and Minister of Labor intervene under the Canada Labor Code. This process would refer both WestJet and the labor Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association to arbitration for a first collective agreement and would allow an unbiased third-party to issue a collective agreement that would be binding on both parties. It also would prevent any labor action by either party, according to WestJet.
In response to WestJet’s request, AMFA issued a 72-hour strike notification with the intent for a work stoppage as early as June 20 at 7 p.m. Canadian Mountain Time, according to the carrier.
