WestJet promises refunds if strike goes ahead
WestJet Airlines is trying to assuage passenger anxiety by promising to provide full refunds if flights are cancelled because of a possible pilots strike.
In response to passenger tweets expressing concerns about their upcoming vacations, the Calgarybased airline said it will provide refunds in the original form of payment.
“We understand your concern around being affected with a work stoppage,” it tweeted in response to one passenger.
“We remain confident that we will come to an agreement. In the meantime, it is business as usual.”
However, a passenger said that simply offering a refund may not resolve the traveller’s problem because tickets purchased just before flights typically cost more.
“Exactly, what do we do with refunded money when you are stuck in Cancun for example?” tweeted another passenger. “I think this is a serious situation that affects a lot of people. The union and the pilots need to come to a solution immediately.”
Added another: “I’m booked for the middle of June. Fingers crossed.”
Air Canada has capitalized on its rival’s situation by formally announcing Thursday that it is expanding capacity on key transcontinental routes in response to the strike mandate at its large domestic rival.
WestJet pilots voted 91 per cent in favour of strike action, but committed to not disrupt passenger travel plans over the Victoria Day long weekend as a goodwill gesture.
Pilots will be in a legal position to commence job action on May 19, but now say they won’t strike before May 22.