WestJet Encore pilots have ratified a new five-year agreement with the airline. The successful outcome of the new collective bargaining agreement was announced Friday, concluding a period of prolonged and difficult negotiations between WestJet and the Air Lines Pilots Association, International.
WestJet has been negotiating with the pilots since September 2023. The new deal takes effect immediately, retroactive to January 1, 2024, and runs through the end of 2028. Of the 91% of eligible pilots who cast ballots, 79% voted in favour of accepting the agreement.
WestJet Airlines President and Group Chief Operating Officer Diederik Pen. (Photo Credit: PHOTO: WestJet)
"We are pleased to have an agreement that reflects the instrumental value and contributions of our Encore pilots,” said WestJet Airlines President and Group COO Diederik Pen. “This agreement reflects our commitment to our Encore pilots and their contributions to the WestJet Group as we continue to invest in our growth and Encore operations, which provide critical connectivity to regions across Western Canada."
Capt Carin Kenny, chair of the WestJet Encore ALPA Master Executive Council, said the new agreement will propel the regional carrier forward
“The ratification of this contract is a step toward our company and our pilots working together to put the airline in a more competitive position. Since negotiations began, we were clear that to attract new pilots to the WestJet Group and retain the ones currently flying for our airline, we needed a contract that provides competitive compensation, improved scheduling flexibility, and a level of career progression.”
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