WestJet Encore pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), have voted in favour of a strike authorization.
Of the 89% of pilots who participated in the vote, 97% voted in favour of a strike, if necessary. The vote came one week after conciliation ended and during the 21-day cooling-off period.
According to ALPA, WestJet Encore pilots are currently among Canada's lowest-paid regional pilots.
"Our industry and our company reputation are built on trust and stability," said Capt. Carin Kenny, chair of the WestJet Encore ALPA Master Executive Council. "That's why our tactic at the negotiating table has been to make commonsense proposals that will provide a path forward for the WestJet Group and its pilots."
ALPA has stated that progress was made in the early stages of the past seven months of negotiations. But as talks shifted to important aspects of the contract, such as pay and career growth within the WestJet Group, momentum slowed.
ALPA acknowledged that flight disruptions are never ideal for pilots or passengers, and it has committed to the bargaining process and made negotiators available around the clock during a cooling-off period. However, if negotiations fail, WestJet Encore pilots are prepared to file a 72-hour strike notice on 14APR, with the possibility of being in a legal strike position on 17APR.
