WestJet, mechanics union reach tentative deal amid strike fears [Video]

WestJet Group said Monday it has reached a tentative agreement with the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, the union representing WestJet maintenance engineers, raising hopes that a strike will be averted.

“The WestJet Group is pleased to have reached a tentative agreement that is industry-leading within Canada and recognizes the important contributions of our valued Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, making them the highest paid in Canada, while delivering industry leading work-life balance standards and strong commitments to job security,” said Diederik Pen, president of WestJet Airlines and chief operating officer of WestJet Group, in a statement.

“After nine months of tough negotiating, we are proud to have reached a tentative agreement that will now be presented, through the ratification process, to the hard working Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and other Technical Operations employees who go above and beyond to maintain a best-in-class culture of safety for the WestJet Group,” said Will Abbott of the AMFA.