WestJet, pilot’s union agree on arbitration process, avoid strike

The threat of a strike by WestJet pilots appears to be over.

The Calgary-based airline and the union that represents the pilots said Friday they have agreed to a settlement process that will involve a federal mediator.

WestJet and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) say if necessary they have agreed to use final and binding arbitration.

In a joint release, the airline and union said “WestJet guests can now book and travel with confidence.”

The sides had resumed contract talks Tuesday.

The pilots were legally able to launch a strike last Saturday, but committed not to disrupt passenger travel plans over the Victoria Day long weekend as a goodwill gesture.

The ALPA represents about 1,500 pilots at WestJet’s main service.

WestJet has said its bargaining team was focused on getting a sustainable agreement that benefits pilots, WestJet customers and the company.

The airline had promised to refund tickets if flights were cancelled in the event of a strike.

WestJet has said its bookings have slowed since the union said it would seek a strike mandate, which was supported by 91 per cent of its members.

WestJet’s planned launch of its Swoop ultra-low cost carrier has been a source of contention between pilots and the company.

Earlier this year, the union won a Canada Industrial Relations Board challenge to the company’s proposed policy to offer pilots a two-year leave of absence if they go to fly for Swoop.

The ALPA complained that the policy was a significant change in the company’s terms of employment and an interference with the union’s right to represent the pilots.