WestJet and unionized mechanics to resume negotiations, strike no longer a possibility

The strike threat by unionized mechanics at WestJet has been averted as both parties have agreed to resume negotiations at the bargaining table.

In an overnight statement, the airline presented options for arbitration to its Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and Tech Ops employees before the Canadian Industrial Relations Board.

The CIRB officials have indicated that more information is required from both sides to determine if arbitration is the best way to achieve a first-time collective bargaining agreement.

Meanwhile, a mutual decision has been made to return to negotiations and continue working towards a resolution.

Last week, union members overwhelmingly rejected a tentative agreement and expressed opposition to the airline’s proposal for arbitration.

The WestJet Group had previously announced the cancellation of over 30 flights scheduled for June 19 and June 20 in anticipation of a potential strike by its 670 aircraft maintenance workers on the evening of June 20.

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