WestJet's flight attendants have spoken, and after a week-long voting process, have said yes to ratifying the tentative agreement between the airline and CUPE 8125.
The union says 90.2% voted in favour of the deal, with 92.7% having voted.
“This is a strong mandate from our members and recognition of the meaningful gains we made at the bargaining table,” said Alia Hussain, president of CUPE 8125. “This is only our second contract, and we made important progress, including making sure our members are compensated for more of the work they already do.”
The three-year agreement is retroactive to 01JAN26, and runs until 31DEC28, and includes wage increases and other improvements to working conditions.
The union, which represents about 4,400 WestJet cabin personnel, unanimously recommended ratifying the deal, which comes after flight attendants at WestJet went on strike earlier this month.
A 28-hour work stoppage that began 02AUG led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights.
"We are pleased our cabin crew voted to ratify this agreement, one that modernizes how cabin crew are compensated," said WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech. "The ratified agreement reflects the collaborative efforts of both parties and provides a foundation for WestJet's continued success."
The airline also thanked clients and passengers for their "patience and loyalty" during the strike.
Union members voted for a number of updates to their contract, most notably a Duty Period Premium, as well as improved workplace protections, a 13% wage increase retroactive to January, and enhancements to health spending and sick leave.
The Duty Period Premium means crew members can get paid for time when they're not in the air, including delays, boarding and ground time.
Voting on the deal began 17AUG and wrapped up this afternoon.
