Technicians Union: WestJet issues 72-hour closure notice

Canadian airline WestJet issued a 72-hour shutdown notice on Saturday to the union representing senior technicians responsible for maintaining its aircraft, with a view to a possible grounding on Tuesday, May 7 at 12 p.m.

“Despite our steadfast commitment to reaching a collective agreement, AMFA continues to come to the negotiating table with unreasonable demands and expectations,” said Diederik Penn, President of WestJet Airlines and Chief Operating Officer of WestJet Group.

With this closure notice, WestJet is threatening the Aircraft Mechanics Association (AMFA) not to give them work on May 7 to force them to reduce their requirements.

Mr. Ben added in a press statement: “The decision to issue the closure notice was not taken lightly, and we deeply regret the uncertainty this causes for our guests as well as the communities and regions that rely on us, and we apologise.” The release was released on Saturday.

AMFA publicly issued a strike vote alert last week and asked its guests to engage with other carriers.

“We cannot allow this unpredictability and lack of progress to continue. We have no choice but to issue a closure notice with the aim of reaching a final solution,” he continued.

WestJet and AMFA have been in negotiations since September 2023. WestJet has proposed an offer to significantly increase AMFA member salaries by more than 20% over the term of the collective agreement.

“We are firmly committed to reaching an agreement to prevent travel disruptions, but we are also prepared to protect our guests’ travel plans and ensure long-term stability and security for all WestJet Group employees,” Mr. Penn added.

Although the potential closure should not have an impact on travel, the airline is still taking certain measures such as preparing for a reduced schedule, proactively managing cancellations and modifications, and providing flexible change and cancellation options.

At the time of writing, QMI has not yet been able to contact AMFA.