WestJet’s flight attendants have approved a new collective agreement with the airline, with an overwhelming 90.2% vote in favor of the deal. Alia Hussain, president of CUPE 8125, expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating that the members’ support reflects the significant progress achieved during negotiations. This marks the union’s second contract, showcasing advancements such as improved compensation for existing responsibilities.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees disclosed that the agreement encompasses an 18% salary increase spread over three years, along with additional pay for ground duties. The contract outlines a 13% wage boost effective this October, followed by increments of 2.75% in January and 2.5% at the beginning of 2028. WestJet has not yet provided a response to inquiries regarding the agreement.
Negotiations commenced in January, with disagreements between WestJet and the CUPE WestJet Component revolving around wage adjustments and the cabin crews’ grievances regarding unpaid ground tasks. The union had persistently raised concerns about uncompensated off-air duties, while WestJet contended that all responsibilities were adequately acknowledged through a credit hour system rather than an hourly wage.
The newly established three-year agreement is operational from January 1, 2026, until December 31, 2028. The resolution of contentious issues, particularly concerning boarding compensation, came after a brief strike by around 4,400 cabin crew members earlier in the month. WestJet’s flight operations gradually normalized following more than 900 cancellations during the peak summer travel period.
Labor disputes have unsettled the aviation sector in recent years, with strikes by Air Canada flight attendants and WestJet mechanics causing temporary disruptions at the nation’s leading airlines. WestJet, known for operating over 600 daily flights and serving over 70,000 passengers on certain days, continues to navigate the evolving landscape of the airline industry.