The union representing WestJet’s cabin crew has disclosed the specifics of the tentative agreement reached with the Calgary-based airline following a one-day strike. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) has outlined that the deal entails an increase of over 18% in wages spread over three years. Additionally, a novel “duty period premium” has been introduced to provide compensation for ground work. The agreement also encompasses enhanced time off benefits and raised allowances for food and uniforms, among other provisions.
During a long holiday weekend for many, all WestJet flights across a significant portion of Canada were grounded as the deadline for a strike by 4,400 flight attendants approached. The strike commenced early Sunday, prompting the walkout. However, a tentative agreement was reached between the airline and the union in the early hours of Monday, leading to a gradual return to normal operations for WestJet.
In the upcoming weeks, cabin crew members are scheduled to vote on the agreement to finalize its acceptance.