The union representing WestJet mechanics has rescinded a strike discover and can resume talks with the airline.
Some 670 WestJet aircraft mechanics, represented by the Plane Mechanics Fraternal Affiliation (AMFA), had been set to stroll off the job as early as Thursday night after serving the airline with a strike discover earlier this week following months of negotiations.
However in an announcement late Wednesday, WestJet says each the union and airline will return to the bargaining desk within the hopes of discovering a decision.
Earlier Wednesday, WestJet cancelled greater than 30 flights forward of a potential strike, leaving hundreds of passengers scrambling.
“We acknowledge the affect the preliminary cancellations had on our company and our folks, and we sincerely admire their endurance and understanding throughout this time,” stated WestJet president Diederik Pen.
“In returning to the bargaining desk, we’re dedicated to discovering a decision to keep away from additional disruption to our operations.”
Scott Christopherson, a spokesperson for the union, confirmed that each events have agreed to return to the bargaining desk, and stated talks would resume subsequent week.
Request for binding arbitration
Union members had voted overwhelmingly to reject a tentative deal final week and opposed the airline’s request for arbitration this week.
Calgary-based WestJet had requested that the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) intervene with binding arbitration, which might see the labour tribunal hammer out a contract between the 2 sides — their first collective settlement. Within the meantime, the board may bar a piece stoppage.
The union, whose members voted overwhelmingly to reject a tentative settlement final week, says it opposed the transfer, saying it might undermine their objective of an “industry-changing contract.”
Extra airways now cost for companies that was once a part of the ticket worth, reminiscent of seat choice and buyer help. The federal authorities has vowed to make these charges simpler to identify, however higher transparency will not finish airline charges.
In its assertion on Wednesday night time, WestJet stated that the CIRB had suggested it might want extra time earlier than making a call on whether or not to make use of binding arbitration to create the collective settlement.
The airline says that company are inspired to verify the standing of their flights earlier than going to the airport on Thursday.
