WestJet Bargaining Committee Update – Building Momentum Together

Dear Members,

Your WestJet Mainline Bargaining Committee has been actively engaged in planning, research, and consultation as we prepare for the upcoming round of bargaining. Our recent meetings have focused on reviewing member feedback, analyzing the current Collective Agreement (CA), consulting with industry experts, and developing tools to better inform and engage you—our membership. 

Below is our update on the key areas of focus this past month: 

CA1 Unpacked – Building a Baseline Together 
One of the most consistent pieces of feedback we received from member surveys and member interactions was that many Cabin Personnel find the current collective agreement (CA1) difficult to navigate or fully understand. This challenge is even more pronounced among new hires and those who joined through the Swoop or Sunwing integrations. With that in mind, your Bargaining Committee is launching CA1 Unpacked—a quick-reference learning series designed to give all members a stronger foundation before we head into CA2. 

Each edition of CA1 Unpacked will focus on one section or concept within the current collective agreement, broken down into plain language, with real-life examples of how it applies to your work. These will be sent out every two weeks and archived on our website so that members can access them at any time. When timely or urgent topics arise, we’ll release additional editions to ensure members are equipped with clear, accessible information.

This initiative is part of our broader strategic plan to ensure every member has a shared baseline understanding of their rights and entitlements under CA1—so that when it comes time to consider CA2, we’re all able to participate with confidence and clarity. 

Seniority Review – Complex but Critical 
Seniority plays a central role in how Cabin Personnel experience their work life—whether it's bidding for pairings, vacation, reserve, or career progression opportunities. With the purchase of Sunwing, the integration of Swoop, and the historic and continued movement of Encore/Swoop Cabin Personnel into Mainline, and interdepartmental transfers - our Master Seniority List (MSL) has become increasingly complicated.  The Seniority Task force began this work and the Bargaining Committee has been tasked with carrying the work forward as it falls to the scope of the Committee under Article 15. 

We’ve begun the process of developing a seniority survey, but this work requires more time than anticipated. The reason is simple: each of the four airlines involved—WestJet, WestJet Encore, Swoop, and Sunwing—has different historical practices and record-keeping systems across all aspects of personnel records. In order to put forward meaningful survey questions, we need a full and accurate understanding of what data exists, how it’s been tracked, and what differences may impact fairness across groups. 

We have re-engaged the Company on this issue and are actively reviewing available data sources. Our commitment is to only bring forward survey options that are based in fact, fair treatment, and consistency—not assumptions or incomplete information. 

We’ve heard from many members that reviewing the seniority list is a top priority. We agree—but it must be done properly. We also want to remind members that this topic is sensitive. We ask everyone to remain respectful and mindful in conversations, both online and onboard. Discussions must remain professional and are governed by the Company’s Business Code of Conduct. 

When the time comes, your participation in the seniority survey will be vital. Unions operate on democratic principles, and strong, informed participation will guide how we move forward. Until then, we remain focused on ensuring that the process is grounded in fact, fairness, and transparency for all Cabin Personnel—no matter how they arrived at WestJet. 

Benefits Review – Reflecting Your Priorities
The Bargaining Committee has launched a focused review of our benefits plan, using feedback from the bargaining priorities survey to identify areas members value most—such as mental health support, dental care, and out-of-country coverage. To strengthen our approach, we’ve also engaged external benefits consultants and industry resources to help us assess how our current plan compares to those at other Canadian airlines. 

This review is part of our strategic preparation for CA2. By aligning member priorities with industry standards and expert advice, we aim to develop proposals that are both meaningful and achievable. As the work continues, we’ll keep you informed and may follow up with more targeted questions to guide the next steps. 

Fall Roadshows – Connecting Before We Bargain 
Before we serve notice to bargain, the Mainline Bargaining Committee will be holding a series of in-person roadshows at all permanent bases this fall. These roadshows will give members the chance to connect face-to-face with the Bargaining Committee and gain insight into the path ahead. 

At each session, we’ll present: 

• The major themes and goals for CA2 

• A summary of how member feedback has been incorporated into our preparation 

• Timelines and key stages in the bargaining process 

• Time for member questions, discussion, and engagement 

Roadshows are a key part of our democratic process. Collective bargaining is built on the collective will of the membership, and the roadshows are how we ensure that everyone has the chance to be heard, informed, and united before we reach the table. 

We encourage every member to attend, bring your questions, and stay involved. Details on dates, times, and locations will be shared in the coming weeks.  Much more on this to come before September bids close.

Airline Division Bargaining – Solidarity Across Canada 
CUPE Local 8125 is proud to be part of the CUPE Airline Division, a growing network of over 19,500 unionized airline workers across the country. Right now, several airline locals are actively engaged in bargaining or conciliation: 

• WestJet Encore - CA1 Expires One Year Today (July 31, 2026)

• Air Canada Component has completed conciliation and is currently conducting a strike vote. 

• PASCAN Aviation has filed for conciliation and is in early stages of the process. 

• Calm Air is expected to issue notice to bargain in the fall. 

• PAL Airlines is a few months into bargaining process. 

• Canadian North will also be up for bargaining shortly.

• Porter Airlines is undergoing a CIRB review for certification and then it will move directly into bargaining. 

We ask our members to show support and solidarity for our union siblings across the industry. What happens at other tables impacts the entire sector, and showing a united front across airlines strengthens our collective voice.  Please follow us @WestJetComponent on Instagram and WestJet Component on Facebook.

We will continue to share updates from our partners in the Airline Division and encourage you to stand with them, as they will stand with us. 

Looking Ahead 
Your Bargaining Committee remains committed to building a strong, informed, and united foundation as we head into CA2. Through continued education, data review, direct member outreach, and industry analysis, we’re preparing to bargain from a place of strength. 

There will be more to come—more updates, more opportunities to engage, and more chances to shape the direction of our next agreement. 

Stay informed. Stay connected. Stay united. 

In Unity,

WestJet Bargaining Committee

Alia Hussain - President
Bryan Hansraj - WestJet Unit VP
Jean-Francois Laframboise - YVR/YEG Rep
Shane Campbell - YYC Rep
Justin Patterson - YYZ Rep
Cailey Millard - YWG/YUL Rep
Alex Grigoriev - Local Executive (Alternate)
Cameron Jones - Local Executive (Alternate)

Bargaining Communications – What to Expect and How to Stay Engaged

Dear Members,

As we prepare for our upcoming round of bargaining for CA2, your Bargaining Committee is committed to clear, consistent, and transparent communication throughout the process. We know how important it is to keep you informed and involved.

Our Communications Strategy

We’ll be using a variety of platforms to keep you in the loop:

Email bulletins

• Every time we meet - we will update you.

Social media updates

• Know your Contract campaign  

• Other important info - follow us on social media!

  • @westjetcomponent on Instagram

  • WestJet Component on Facebook

• Podcasts: In the Jumpseat – available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

• YouTube: Search “WestJet Component” or Click HERE

Townhalls

• Upcoming dates and further information will be shared shortly

  • Please note that signing up will be required and will not be recorded to ensure a safe space to ask questions and have open and honest dialogue.  

Website (www.wjcomponent.ca)

• A tab has been added to the Website to ensure all bargaining related information is housed there. Click this LINK to view the Bargaining Page of the Website

Member Surveys

Throughout the process we will consult with the membership on matters important to them.  As the bargaining process is fluid, please remain engaged as there will be surveys as the process unfolds.  Ensure you participate and have your voice heard. Use the Comment box(es) to include other issues or related feedback to ensure your voice is heard by the Committee.

Member Engagement & Strike Committee (MESC)

• This committee will be briefed on key messaging directly from the Bargaining Committee and Local Executive Committee.  

• They will also have swag (where/when available) and other engagement activities.  

To help you easily identify the stage we’re in, all our email communications will use the following colour-coded headers:

🟡 Yellow – Bargaining preparations and initiative Roll outs (survey, member education, pre-bargaining info)

🟢 Green – Notice to bargain has been issued – we’re officially at the table

🔴 Red – Critical updates requiring your attention (both challenges and key progress)

Bargaining Is About Strategy

One important note: bargaining isn’t just about demands—it’s about strategy. That means not every detail will be shared publicly in real time. Openly disclosing our entire strategy or specific proposals could be used against us by the Employer.  

WestJet and Onex are well-resourced, data-driven, and closely monitoring public spaces—including social media. Oversharing weakens our collective power.

We ask all members to keep sensitive discussions internal and trust your elected committee to represent your interests. When your voice is needed, you will be asked directly—through official surveys, town halls, and at times outreach led by MESC.

Understanding Bargaining Timelines

Bargaining timelines in federally regulated workplaces like ours are governed by the Canada Labour Code. By law, a union may only serve Notice to Bargain within 120 days of the expiry of a collective agreement.  

While our committee is fully committed to moving forward efficiently and in good faith, this process cannot be rushed. There are two parties at the table, and both must play their part. We will be showing up prepared and focused—with clear proposals and a well-developed mandate built on your feedback.

For context

Your Bargaining Committee was elected on May 28, 2025, and held our first meeting (4 days later) on June 2 and spent a week in Bargaining Training - just 212 days before our agreement expires on December 31, 2025.

Despite a delayed start due to the dissolution of the previous Locals 4070/4055, we are meeting every second week in person. On weeks when we are not meeting in person, we are tasked with research and review of various documents and contracts along with self-directed training and strategic planning.

The commitment is to ensure members do not spend more time than necessary under our current agreement; we are strategically focused and committed to progress.

For further context, Air Canada flight attendants issued notice to bargain over 213 days ago—and have spent over 100 of those days without a valid Contract as of today (July 11, 2025).

To learn more about these timelines, we encourage you to watch our “Bargaining Learning Series” video, on our YouTube channel or website.

Get Involved

The strength of our bargaining position is rooted in you.

Here’s how to get engaged:

• Sign up for our email list on the website

• Follow us on social media (Instagram/Facebook)

• Attend an upcoming town hall (coming soon)

• Complete surveys

• Tune in to our podcast: "In the Jumpseat" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube

• Subscribe on YouTube by searching "WestJet Component"

• Volunteer with the Member Engagement & Strike Committee (MESC)

Together, we wear the uniform—but the uniform doesn’t wear us.  

This is OUR TURN.

This is OUR VOICE.  

This is OUR CONTRACT.

In Unity,

WestJet Bargaining Committee
CUPE Local 8125 – WestJet Component

Alia Hussain - President
Bryan Hansraj - WestJet Unit VP
Jean-Francois Laframboise - YVR/YEG Rep
Shane Campbell - YYC Rep
Justin Patterson - YYZ Rep
Cailey Millard - YWG/YUL Rep
Alex Grigoriev - Local Executive (Alternate)
Cameron Jones - Local Executive (Alternate)

Bargaining Survey #1 Coming Soon! Your Voice. Your Priorities. Why This Survey Matters.

Dear Members,

As we prepare for our upcoming round of collective bargaining, we want to share that a Bargaining Priorities Survey will be released today. 

This survey has been developed in consultation with CUPE’s National Research Department and follows the standardized approach used across CUPE’s Airline Division. Your Local Executive Committee has also reviewed surveys used by other unions at WestJet to ensure our process reflects both our shared environment and your unique needs. 

Why We’re Starting with a Priorities Survey: 

While many members are still new to collective bargaining, this is now our second contract as a unionized group—and for some, it may even be your third or fourth contract experience. Regardless of whether this is your first time participating in negotiations or you have been through the process before, we know that you care deeply about the issues that impact your working life and want to be actively involved in shaping the outcome.  

That said, bargaining is a complex, strategic, and evolving process. The most effective way for members to influence negotiations—regardless of experience—is through a priorities-based survey. 

This approach is the standard across CUPE and most unions in Canada because it ensures that bargaining committees have a strong, unified mandate that reflects the real-world concerns of the membership while preserving the flexibility needed to negotiate effectively at the table. 

1. It Identifies What Matters Most: 

The purpose of bargaining is to improve your working conditions, but we can’t address everything at once. A priorities survey tells the Bargaining Committee what matters most to you—wages, scheduling, job security, career progression, or other issues—so we can focus on what’s most important to the membership as a whole. 

Rather than starting with a list of demands or pre-written proposals, we need to start by understanding the problems you're facing. That gives us the flexibility to explore the best solutions once we’re at the table.  We need to establish a base line in order to move forward from there asking more specific questions. 

2. It Keeps Us Strategic and United: 

Bargaining isn’t about showing up with a checklist—it’s a dynamic, back-and-forth process that involves negotiation, compromise, and strategy.  

Focusing on the issue instead of the solution—like "cost of living is outpacing our wages" or "schedules are harming work-life balance"—allows your committee to negotiate smarter, adapt to the employer’s responses, and still achieve meaningful gains. 

3. It Respects Your Role and The Bargaining Committee’s: 

Some members have asked why they aren’t being asked to vote on contract language line by line. The reason is simple: bargaining isn’t a public vote—it’s a structured negotiation. Your elected Bargaining Committee is tasked with taking your feedback, applying expertise, responding in real-time to the employer’s proposals, and bringing back the best possible tentative agreement. 

You will always have the final say when it matters most—ratification. Once a tentative agreement is reached, you will have the opportunity to review and vote on the full contract. Until then, the survey is how you influence what we focus our negotiating efforts on. 

Follow-Up: The Seniority Survey 

After the overall priorities survey, we will be conducting a Seniority Survey. This follow-up survey will gather insight from the membership on various aspects of seniority and how it is applied within our Collective Agreement from different perspectives. 

Seniority is a foundational element of our work environment, and we recognize that it impacts members differently depending on their roles, bases, and career progression. Your feedback will help ensure we address seniority issues in a way that reflects the diverse needs of our membership. 

Following that, in consultation with the Bargaining Committee, as we move through the process, we will return to the membership to confirm and refine our mandate when required. This ongoing consultation will help ensure that our bargaining direction remains clear, relevant, and driven by your input. 

Want to Share Specific Proposals? 

We still welcome your ideas. At the end of the survey, there will be a comments section where you can provide specific suggestions or concerns. Everything you share will be reviewed by the Bargaining Committee. 

What Happens Next? 

Once we receive the survey results, we will analyze and compile the top member-identified priorities. These will be shared with all members to ensure we have a clear and aligned direction before formal bargaining begins. This ensures transparency and unity throughout the process. 

We are also committed to sending out follow-up surveys or consultations if needed—either by your Bargaining Committee or the Local Executive—so your voice stays at the heart of our negotiations. 

This is Your Contract. Your Voice Matters. 

Your feedback is essential to building a strong, unified bargaining position. Let’s make sure our collective priorities are clear and that we continue to shape our future together. 

#CA2 #OurTurn2025 #Ourtime2025 

In Unity,
WestJet Component - CUPE Local 8125

Welcome to the Bargaining Blog

Hello Members,

This space will serve as the central hub for all official updates, announcements, and information related to our upcoming collective bargaining negotiations. We understand the importance of staying informed throughout this process, and this blog is designed to keep you in the loop every step of the way.

Here, you'll find regular posts detailing the progress of negotiations, key developments, answers to frequently asked questions, and any important documents we need to share. Consider this your one-stop shop for all bargaining-related communications.

We encourage you to check back frequently for the latest news and to stay engaged as we work towards securing a strong and fair collective agreement for all members of the WestJet Component (CUPE 8125).

Your Bargaining Committee