The union representing WestJet Encore pilots say talks with the company have stalled and that it’s seeking help from Ottawa.
The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which represents more than 300 WestJet Encore pilots, says contract talks have reached a “near standstill” in recent days. Canadian Press reports the association has kicked off the conciliation process by filing for help with the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service.
CP says the union is seeking "drastic improvement" in wages and improved career advancement opportunities.
"We are committed to productive discussions in pursuit of reasonable outcomes to collaboratively reach an agreement with ALPA,” WestJet spokeswoman Madison Kruger in an email. “Our focus remains on jointly addressing issues raised by our valued pilots and ensuring business as usual for the travelling public as we move through this process,"
Mainline WestJet pilots reached a last-minute deal with the company last May, averting a potential strike ahead of the busy May long weekend.
Air Transat announced recently that it has reached a tentative deal with some 2,100 flight attendants.