"Our goal is to avoid a strike. However, WestJet refuses to recognize our value and expertise," he wrote in the press release.
Last month, WestJet considered the threat of a strike to be a bargaining tactic.
In a statement, WestJet Group Chief Operating Officer Diederik Pen issued the following statement, regarding ALPA's strike authorization vote:
"A vote to authorize a strike is a common step for unions in the context of the overall collective bargaining process and does not mean that a strike will take place."
"We remain firmly committed to securing a competitive deal within the Canadian airline industry and securing a long-term sustainable future so that we can continue to provide essential air service to millions of Canadians, while providing jobs to thousands of people within the WestJet Group."
Negotiations continue under a federal conciliation process, which will end on April 24 and will be followed by a three-week recess, unless the parties agree to extend the talks.
According to Radio Canada
