WestJet Encore flight attendants file notice of dispute as airline rags the puck on contract negotiations

CALGARY--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Flight attendants at WestJet Encore represented by CUPE 8125 have filed a notice of dispute with the federal government, seeking the appointment of a conciliator to help resolve stalled contract negotiations.

Flight attendants are seeking an end to unpaid work, fair compensation in line with flight attendants at WestJet's mainline, and meaningful improvements to challenging working conditions.

“Many of the issues we’re working to resolve at Encore were already addressed in the Mainline agreement ratified this summer,” said Alia Hussain, President of CUPE 8125. “Encore cabin crew remain among the lowest-paid flight attendants in Canada. They deserve a fair agreement that delivers meaningful improvements to their compensation and working conditions.”

WestJet Encore flight attendants manage demanding schedules and carry significant safety and service responsibilities before, during and after every flight. Despite these expectations, much of the essential work they perform on the ground continues to go unpaid.

"The ball is in WestJet's court," said Hussain. "It's time for the company to show our Encore cabin crew the respect and fair deal they deserve so they can get back to focusing on what they do best: keeping WestJet passengers safe in the air and on the ground."

Filing a notice of dispute initiates the federal conciliation process, bringing in a government-appointed conciliator for up to 60 days to assist both parties in reaching an agreement. If no agreement is reached, a 21-day cooling off period begins, after which either party may issue a 72-hour strike or lockout notice.

CUPE 8125 represents approximately 4,700 WestJet flight attendants, including 360 at WestJet Encore.