More than 1,800 WestJet airport workers have opened collective bargaining with the airline, with wages, scheduling and working conditions among the union’s priorities.
Unifor Local 531 represents WestJet customer service, priority service, baggage and ramp workers, as well as airport operations coordinators at Toronto Pearson, Calgary and Vancouver airports.
This is the second contract negotiation between Unifor and WestJet since the workers unionized. Their first agreement was ratified in 2022 and expires 31DEC, 2026.
The union is seeking improvements to wages and scheduling, along with changes to working conditions and safety, raising concerns about agents working alone.
“WestJet workers have made their priorities clear, and our bargaining committee is going to stand behind them,” said Unifor Local 531 President Erica Kelly.
Bargaining sessions are scheduled for 14-15SEP in Toronto, followed by 23-25SEP and additional dates through the end of the year.
No strike vote has been held by the airport workers.
Meanwhile, 750 WestJet call centre workers in Calgary are set to vote this week on whether to join Unifor. The workers have raised concerns about outsourcing, reduced full-time hours and increased monitoring.
