WestJet pilots issue 72-hour strike notice ahead of long weekend

WestJet pilots have issued a 72-hour strike notice, warning that the airline could be shut down right before the May long weekend.

The pilots’ union, the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), said in a statement that they plan to start their strike Friday morning if a deal can not be reached.

The statement said this action “could include grounding all aircraft and effectively shutting down operations,” which also affects Swoop Airlines.

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The union represents around 1,600 pilots who say low pay is causing many of their colleagues to leave the job.

The ALPA’s members are seeking a contract that will fix many of WestJet’s labour problems and make being a pilot an ideal career once again.

WestJet responded to the union with a lockout notice.

The airline’s CEO posted a statement yesterday, saying that the union maintains unreasonable expectations.

We regret the union @WestJetALPA has served a strike notice. Our offer would have made our valued @WestJet pilots by far the best paid in Canada. As the union maintains unreasonable expectations we see no alternative then to lock them out as of Friday 🥲https://t.co/KaNxj2GjoC

— Alexis von Hoensbroech (@AHoensbroech) May 16, 2023

WestJet says a work stoppage could happen as early as 3 a.m. on Friday, and guests will be refunded or accommodated if flight delays or cancellations happen.

Customers who booked directly with WestJet or Swoop are encouraged to check their email for updates on existing travel plans, while those who booked with a travel agent or online booking agency should contact them directly.