Except translation, this story has not been edited by achinews staff and is published from a syndicated feed.
A strike notice by unionized WestJet mechanics has been rescinded as the union representing the workers and the airline returns to the bargaining table.
WestJet said in a statement late Wednesday that it appeared before the Canadian Industrial Relations Board to discuss the airline’s request for arbitration, in discussions with the Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and Tech Ops employees.
“The CIRB has advised that additional time and submissions from both parties will be required before deciding whether or not to resolve collective bargaining for our first agreement through arbitration,” the Calgary-based airline said.
“In the meantime, the Fraternal Association of Aircraft Mechanics has rescinded its strike notice, with both sides mutually agreeing to return to the bargaining table to continue working towards finding a resolution,” he added.
On Monday, WestJet mechanics gave a 72-hour strike notice and said they were prepared to walk off the job as early as Thursday night.
The Fraternal Association of Aircraft Mechanics, which represents about 670 aircraft maintenance engineers and other skilled trades jobs at the carrier, says it made the decision after WestJet ended negotiations this week.
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In anticipation of the possible strike, WestJet canceled 31 flights scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, affecting about 6,500 customers.
The airline says it is “making every effort to re-accommodate guests” and is “working to resume normal operations as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
“We recognize the impact the initial cancellation had on our guests and our people, and we sincerely appreciate their patience and understanding during this time,” said Diederik Pen, president of WestJet Airlines and the Group’s chief operating officer.
“In returning to the bargaining table, we are committed to finding a solution to avoid further disruption to our operations.”
— with files from The Canadian Press
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(Except translation, this story has not been edited by achinews staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)
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