WestJet Encore pilots, company reach agreement

CALGARY — Pilots at WestJet Encore have approved an agreement in principle with the airline’s executive, after seven months of negotiations and avoiding strike action.

Last week, WestJet Encore Pilots voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action with wages being a major sticking point in negotiations. The Air Line Pilots Association says that while contract language still needs to be finalized, both sides have reached the agreement on most of the terms and conditions.

“After several consecutive days of late-stage negotiating, progress was made on a number of key issues including compensation and scheduling,” said Capt Carin Kenny, chair of the WestJet Encore ALPA Master Executive Council (MEC).

“WestJet Encore is pleased to have reached an agreement-in-principle that recognizes the immense value and contributions of our WestJet Encore pilots, who provide critical regional connectivity for Canadians,” said Diederik Pen, President of WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer. “We are pleased to have reached this milestone, enabling us to move forward with an unwavering focus on providing safe, friendly and reliable air service to our guests for years to come.”