The labor union representing WestJet’s flight attendants has disclosed specifics of the tentative agreement reached with the airline based in Calgary following a brief strike. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) announced that the deal encompasses an increase of more than 18% in wages over a three-year period, along with a new “duty period premium” to compensate for ground duties. Additionally, the agreement includes enhanced time off benefits and higher allowances for food and uniforms, among other provisions.
During the preceding long holiday weekend, WestJet flights throughout a significant part of Canada were grounded as approximately 4,400 flight attendants were on the brink of striking. The strike commenced early on Sunday when the flight attendants walked off the job. However, a tentative agreement was reached between the airline and the union on Monday morning, leading to a gradual restoration of WestJet’s operations to normal levels.
The cabin crew members are scheduled to vote on the agreement in the upcoming weeks to finalize the deal.
