Union launches ratification process on tentative agreement with WestJet

CALGARY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--After months of negotiations and finally reaching a tentative agreement with the airline Monday, CUPE 8125, representing WestJet flight attendants, has begun the ratification process with its members.

Details of the tentative agreement have been shared with members and will be reviewed during a series of meetings being scheduled for next week. Voting will begin once those meetings are completed.

“This tentative agreement represents meaningful progress for WestJet flight attendants,” said Alia Hussain, president of CUPE Local 8125. “It recognizes more of the work cabin crew have to do and delivers important improvements to compensation, scheduling, rest, health and safety protections and working conditions.”

While flight attendants returned to work after the tentative agreement was reached, the agreement will only become final once members have completed the ratification process.

A major achievement in the tentative agreement is recognizing and paying cabin crew for required duty hours that had not previously been recognized. Combined with negotiated wage increases, this ensures WestJet cabin crew are paid for more of the work they already do.

The three-year tentative agreement would be in effect from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2028. It includes wage improvements, retroactive pay and improvements to scheduling and reserve provisions, vacation and special days off, benefits, hotel and layover protections, uniform and equipment allowances and other working conditions.

“The Bargaining Committee unanimously recommends ratification of this Tentative Agreement,” said Hussain. “Ratification is one of the most important decisions members make during collective bargaining, and we are committed to ensuring every member has the information they need to make an informed decision.”

CUPE 8125 would like to again thank WestJet passengers for their patience and understanding throughout the bargaining process.