Mainline Bargaining Update #23: Week Two of Conciliation
Dear Members,
We are writing to provide an update following the second week of conciliation.
Quick Summary:
This week we focused heavily on Article 34 – Scheduling, targeting improved rest, stronger protections, and maintaining flexibility
Upcoming sessions will shift focus to pay and pay administration, including unpaid work, pay triggers, and compensation improvements
Unpaid work remains a central issue, reinforced by industry probe findings and the company’s insufficient response. Probe results are directly guiding bargaining strategy to secure recognition and pay for all time worked
Responses: Company 4, Union 2
Conciliation continues through June and early July
This week concluded our second week of conciliation. Substantial effort this past week was focused on an article at the very core of our work: Article 34 – Scheduling. Member priorities around this article are clear. Improving rest parameters, enshrining scheduling protections, and building on our industry-leading flexibility are fundamental moving forward.
Next week, the conciliation process continues in Winnipeg, where, supported by our CUPE National Researcher, we will be turning our attention to pay and pay administration. This phase is expected to be substantial, as it encompasses the core issues that have consistently affected members’ day-to-day working conditions. Our primary focus will be on addressing unpaid work, reassessing the current pay‑trigger structure, and advancing toward compensation that reflects industry‑leading standards.
A renewed and sharpened emphasis on unpaid work has become essential. The findings of the Probe on Unpaid Work in the Airline Sector highlighted systemic concerns that require meaningful corrective action. The company’s response to the probe was notably insufficient, underscoring the need for a more rigorous and solutions oriented approach at the bargaining table. As a result, the probe’s outcomes are directly informing our strategy and reinforcing our commitment to securing recognition and compensation for all time worked.
Members can access the initial results of the probe here.
Responses
Company:
Article 12 – Union Management Relations
Article 35 – Reserve
Article 37 – Hotels and Transportation
Article 39 – Training
Union:
Article 12 – Union Management Relations
Article 39 – Training
Upcoming Conciliation Dates:
June 1st to 5th – Winnipeg
June 8th to 12th – Edmonton
June 15th to 19th – Calgary
June 22nd to 26th – Location TBD
June 29th to July 3rd – Location TBD
July 6th to 10th – Location TBD
How You Can Support Your Bargaining Committee:
Wear your union pin;
Display your Unpaid Work Won’t Fly luggage tag;
Follow and share the Local’s social media;
Reach out directly to the Committee with questions or concerns;
Encourage fellow Cabin Personnel to read their updates.
In the Jumpseat Podcast:
The Local has also released the most recent episode of our Podcast. This episode covers important information regarding Notice of Dispute, Conciliation, and looks to answer Members’ most commonly asked questions around the negotiations process. Members are encouraged to listen on the following Podcast Platforms:
Your unity and visible support for the bargaining process at this stage continues to be essential.
In Unity,
WestJet Mainline Bargaining Committee
YVR / YEG - Jeanfrancois Laframboise jeanfrancois.laframboise@wjcomponent.ca
YYC - Shane Campbell shane.campbell@wjcomponent.ca
YWG / YUL Cailey Millard cailey.millard@wjcomponent.ca
YYZ - Justin Patterson justin.patterson@wjcomponent.ca