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WestJet pilots have secured a 24% pay raise over four years as part of a tentative agreement that narrowly averted a strike. The deal includes higher compensation for pilots, better job security, and improved work-life balance. WestJet’s 1,800 pilots will cast their ballots on the agreement from May 30 to June 9.
The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) said the union achieved its main goals of better pay, job security, and work-life balance in the preliminary agreement. The deal also includes a 15% increase in per diems, more flexible scheduling, and extra legroom seats for deadheads – when an employee flies for free as a passenger en route to or from an assignment.
The agreement comes as labor shortages continue to plague the aviation industry, with a dearth of workers in areas ranging from air traffic control to ground handling. The sector is experiencing a resurgence after the pandemic collapse and travel turmoil over the past year.
Other major airlines are also facing labor strife, including American Airlines pilots who authorized a strike amid contract negotiations before reaching a preliminary deal last week. United Airlines pilots are pushing for even higher pay and comparable quality-of-life provisions in their talks with the airline.
Charlene Hudy, council chair of the Air Canada union, said the merger between ALPA and the Air Canada Pilots Association means 95% of professional Canadian pilots are now represented by a single union. The move aims to address labor shortages and improve working conditions for pilots across the industry.
Bernard Lewall, head of the ALPA’s WestJet contingent, said the union achieved its main goals in the agreement. Denise Kenny, spokeswoman for WestJet, declined to comment on the specifics of the deal, citing that it has not yet been ratified by the union’s membership.
The ratification vote opens May 30, with pilots able to cast their ballots through June 9. The outcome will determine whether the tentative agreement is accepted or rejected.
