WestJet is preparing to wind down operations and cancel selected flights ahead of a potential weekend strike or lockout by its flight attendants.
It’s a troubling sign that could hurt WestJet bookings. But experts say an agreement to gradually halt operations doesn't mean the company will necessarily suffer a labour dispute, as negotiations between the union and the company continue.
In a note sent to some employees and obtained by CBC News, WestJet vice-president of inflight operations Robert Antoniuk wrote the wind-down agreement between the union and the airline "is not an indication of escalation toward labour action," despite it explicitly being an agreement on how to shut down operations in the event negotiations between the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) WestJet Component and the company fail.
In response, union representatives from CUPE told CBC News that it’s members “have been clear from the start that what they want is a fair deal without a strike."
"We did come to a wind down agreement with the union, however, that in no way indicates that we are currently progressing those plans at this time," WestJet told Open Jaw in a note sent late on 29JUL. "This is in the event disruption occurs, and we are very much still at the negotiating table."
A WestJet spokesperson said the airline "is prepared to make meaningful improvements that support cabin crew while maintaining the long-term sustainability of the airline."
WestJet said the wind-down agreement was signed to protect guests, workers and general operations.
"This agreement establishes a clear framework for a safe, orderly, and controlled wind-down of operations should one become necessary. It also enables cabin crew to continue operating active flights, helping guests reach their destinations, and allowing crew members and aircraft to return to base in an organized manner.
"This does not mean a travel disruption will occur, rather, it is part of our proactive responsible planning efforts to help minimize disruption while ensuring all operational decisions remain guided by safety. We remain committed to continuing discussions and are optimistic a negotiated agreement can be achieved."
Federal Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon on 29JUL said talks were progressing. “We’re hopeful that they reach a negotiated agreement," he said.
“We are optimistic we can arrive at an agreement,” WestJet said in an emailed statement to Global News.
CUPE will be in position to issue a 72-hour strike notice at 2:01 a.m. on Thursday, 30JUL. A painful strike could begin as soon as 2:01 a.m. EDT on Sunday, 02AUG.
John Gradek, an aviation expert at McGill University and former Air Canada executive, told the network it’s normal for a wind-down notice to be issued when there’s a potential airline strike on the horizon.
"Pre-positioning is required," he said, explaining how airlines need to make sure that airplanes and crews aren't stuck overseas in the event of a shutdown.
Gradek said he expects some long-distance WS flights could be cancelled soon, but there’s been no announcement from the airline.
WS flight attendants earlier this month vote 99% in favour of a potential strike. Pay for work done while planes are on the ground is a key element of the dispute, as it was for Air Canada flight attendants who went on strike last year.
WestJet says passengers with flights scheduled between 30JUL and 04AUG can make a one-time change or cancel it with no fee.
The airline said travellers booked on WestJet Encore service or code-share flights run by an airline partners, such as Delta Air Lines, will not be affected by a strike.
Stay tuned to Open Jaw for breaking news on this important story.
