Bargaining Update #15

Dear Members,

This week has seen important developments across our airline industry. WestJet Mainline pilots issued their Notice to Bargain on September 1, 2026, and CFAU members at Jazz Aviation voted overwhelmingly in favour of strike action, with more than 99% support from participating members.  We extend our solidarity to both groups and will continue to follow these developments closely as they advocate for their members.

At the table this week, we presented three additional articles as initial proposals:

• Article 36 – Deadheading

• Article 44 – WestJet Savings Plan, Profit Share, and OPA

• Article 47 – Layoff and Recall

This week, we reached Agreement in Principle on two additional articles, bringing our current total to 25. These articles are:

• Article 17 – Accommodation

• Article 18 – Benefits

Several articles remain with the Company as your Bargaining Committee continues to work through outstanding items and provide responses within a reasonable timeframe. At present, 10 articles remain with the Company, and 4 articles are currently with the Union.

This week, we launched our Member Education Series to help members better understand our current Collective Agreement.  We have seen an increase in members' questions and want to ensure you have the support and information you need throughout this process, beyond the work done at the bargaining table.

Your Bargaining Committee remains committed to raising WestJet Encore to the gold standard among regional air carriers.  This means moving beyond the mindset that we are “just Encore” and instead taking pride in who we are: Encore.  We cannot achieve this alone.  We need your continued support, engagement, and solidarity as we move forward together.

If you have not yet signed your membership card, please take a few minutes to do so today.  Completing your card ensures you are recognized as a Member in Good Standing and helps strengthen our collective voice as we move through bargaining together.  Approximately 35 members have not yet signed their card and should have received an email with further information.  Alternatively, you can visit wjcomponent.ca/signacard, and complete the form.  Once submitted, a signing link will be sent to you through Adobe Sign to complete the process.

You can support your Bargaining Committee and your fellow members by:

• Signing your membership card if you have not already done so.

• Staying informed through bargaining updates and union communications.

• Participating in the Member Education Series.

• Asking questions and seeking clarification when needed.

• Sharing factual information and helping to combat misinformation.

• Supporting and encouraging your fellow members.

• Remaining engaged and united throughout the bargaining process.

In Unity, We Are Encore

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Alia Hussain - alia.hussain@wjcomponent.ca
Jennifer Kuhnert - jennifer.kuhnert@wjcomponent.ca
Natasha Selby - natasha.selby@wjcomponent.ca
Maria Gaw - maria.gaw@wjcomponent.ca

Bargaining Update #14: Five Months at the Table - Where We Are

Dear Members,

The Bargaining Committee wishes to acknowledge and congratulate our Mainline counterparts on their outstanding ratification result, achieving a 90.2% in favour of their second Collective Agreement!

Their achievement reflects the strength and unity of their membership, as well as the significant gains secured through the bargaining process.  In light of these successes, we want to assure our Encore members that we are actively pursuing many of the same improvements and advancements at our bargaining table in line with member identified priorities.

As negotiations continue, the Bargaining Committee wants to provide a direct update on where we are in the process and offer insight into the challenges we continue to face at the table.

Guided by your Priority Survey feedback, input from members with lived experience, and recurring concerns raised through union committees, your Bargaining Committee continues to put meaningful proposals forward that drive change for CA2. We remain committed to securing the strongest possible agreement for our membership.

We want to provide members with a clear update on the current state of negotiations, the priorities guiding our proposals, and the challenges that continue to affect progress at the table.

This week, we submitted 10 articles to the Company, our largest proposal package to date in this round of bargaining. This significant step keeps the pressure on the Company, addresses key issues, and helps move negotiations forward as we work toward a fair agreement for our members.  These include:

• Article 6 - Scope

• Article 7 – Classification

• Article 11 – Union Flight Release

• Article 12 – Union-Management Relations

• Article 15 – Seniority

• Article 17 – Accommodation

• Article 18 – Benefits

• Article 20 - Sick & Personal Leave

• Article 21 – Leaves of Absences

• Article 25 – Language Qualifications

This week we have reached Agreement in Principle on 4 additional articles:

• Article 22 – Ad Hoc Assignments

• Article 24 – Filling of Vacancies

• Article 32 – Health and

• Article 40 – Charter Operations & Special Purpose Flights

As noted above, several articles remain with the Company while your Bargaining Committee continues to work through outstanding articles and provide responses within a reasonable timeframe. As of now, there are approximately 15 articles with the Company and 1 article is with the Union.

How You Can Support Your Bargaining Committee:

• Wear your union pin;

• Display your Unpaid Work Won’t Fly luggage tag;

• Follow the Local’s social media;

• Reach out directly to the Committee with questions or concerns;

• Encourage fellow Cabin Crew Members to read their updates.

Your unity and visible support for the bargaining process at this stage is essential.

We want to be direct: Bargaining is only going to become more challenging, and this is where outcomes are determined. Our strength at the table comes directly from visible support of our membership. That means staying engaged, interacting with updates, and demonstrating solidarity by wearing your pin. When participation declines, it weakens our position and makes it more difficult to achieve the improvements we are all working towards.

The Bargaining Committee cannot do this work alone.  We all have a role to play in supporting the bargaining process and strengthening our collective voice.

Together, we are building the foundation for a stronger, fairer, and more sustainable future for all WestJet Cabin Crew Members.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Alia Hussain - alia.hussain@wjcomponent.ca
Jennifer Kuhnert - jennifer.kuhnert@wjcomponent.ca
Natasha Selby - natasha.selby@wjcomponent.ca
Maria Gaw - maria.gaw@wjcomponent.ca

Bargaining Strategy, Member Direction and Communications

Hi everyone,

As bargaining continues, we want to explain how the Bargaining Committee determines priorities, how member feedback is considered, and why every proposal or counterproposal exchanged at the table is not published while negotiations are underway.

Members should understand the issues being addressed and where bargaining stands. At the same time, bargaining is a live negotiation, and there is an important difference between keeping members informed and providing a running public record of every position being discussed.

How Bargaining Priorities Are Established

Before bargaining began, we conducted a membership survey to understand where members most wanted to see change and which issues carried the greatest importance.

That survey is an important source of direction, but it is not the only information considered.

The committee also looks at the experience of administering the current Collective Agreement: grievances that have been filed, recurring concerns identified through Union committees and representatives, issues raised by members, and areas of the agreement that have consistently created problems in the workplace.

We also review agreements elsewhere within the WestJet group and across the airline industry to understand how comparable issues are addressed and where Encore’s language, protections or compensation may differ.

Taken together, this information helps us identify the broader patterns and priorities affecting the bargaining unit.

Social Media and Member Feedback

We know members discuss bargaining on Facebook, in group chats and in other online spaces. Those conversations can provide a glimpse into what some members are thinking, but the Union does not use social media to establish bargaining direction or determine a membership mandate.

Not every member participates. Some members comment frequently, some read without engaging, and others do not use these forums at all. As a result, even a very active discussion cannot reliably tell us whether a position represents a small group of members or the bargaining unit as a whole.

We also learned an important lesson through Mainline bargaining. Individual comments and positions expressed online were, at times, raised at the bargaining table as evidence of what “the membership” wanted, even where the broader information available to the Union suggested something different.

That can distort the discussion at the table. It is one reason we are careful to distinguish between online conversation and broader membership direction.

Social media remains a place for members to talk, debate, and exchange ideas. It simply is not the measure the Bargaining Committee uses to determine the collective position of the membership.

Why Every Proposal Is Not Published

Anything distributed to hundreds of members has to be treated as information that may also reach the Company. Screenshots can be forwarded, posts shared, and information moved outside its original audience very quickly.

Publishing every Union proposal, number or counterproposal would therefore provide visibility into positions that are still being negotiated.

There is another practical reason as well: bargaining positions change.

Language is rewritten. Proposals are amended. Issues become connected. A proposal may be withdrawn because another solution addresses the same concern more effectively. An early proposal may look very different from the language ultimately agreed to.

That movement is normal bargaining. For this reason, the Encore Headquarters is intended to show members the progress of bargaining, including which articles are active, which have been agreed to, and which have not yet been addressed without publishing every draft exchanged between the parties.

What Member Direction Means

The membership provides broader direction for bargaining. The Bargaining Committee is responsible for taking that direction and negotiating within it.

The survey, grievance history, committee feedback, member concerns, operational experience and comparisons with other agreements help identify where change is needed.

They do not necessarily dictate the exact wording of a proposal, or the specific way an issue will ultimately be resolved. That work happens through negotiations, where proposals are exchanged, challenged, revised, and tested against the rest of the Collective Agreement.

What Members Can Expect

Members should continue to have a clear understanding of where bargaining stands and the areas where progress is being made. Our updates and the Encore Bargaining Headquarters will continue to provide that broader view as negotiations move forward.

If the parties reach a tentative agreement, the focus of communication changes. At that stage, members will receive the information needed to understand the proposed changes, the overall package, and what it means for the bargaining unit before making a decision on ratification.

Throughout the process, the Bargaining Committee’s responsibility is to represent the entire bargaining unit, communicate responsibly, and preserve the ability to negotiate effectively while bargaining remains active.

Member direction guides the work. The bargaining table is where that direction is turned into collective agreement language.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Alia Hussain - alia.hussain@wjcomponent.ca
Jennifer Kuhnert - jennifer.kuhnert@wjcomponent.ca
Natasha Selby - natasha.selby@wjcomponent.ca
Maria Gaw - maria.gaw@wjcomponent.ca

Encore Bargaining Update #13: Week 7 Summary Update

Dear Members,

Welcome back to the Encore Bargaining Table. Your Bargaining Committee returned to negotiations with the company this week, completing the 5th month of bargaining. This marked our first session since the strike at Mainline, making it an important opportunity to continue advocating for our members' priorities.

We are pleased to welcome our President Alia back to the Encore bargaining table in person. Her return brings valuable structure, insight, and experience gained through her work with the Mainline bargaining team. Alia’s presence also contributes to a more constructive and focused atmosphere during discussions, supporting continued progress at the table

We were also joined by Troy Winters, National Health and Safety Coordinator, who provided valuable expertise and support during discussions on Occupational Health and Safety (OHS). As a result, a significant portion of this week's negotiations focused on health and safety issues, as well as establishing a framework for ongoing discussions in this area.

During the week, the Union presented its initial proposal on Article 32 – Health and Safety. This proposal outlines our commitment to strengthening workplace health and safety protections and ensuring these issues remain a key priority throughout the bargaining process.

Your Bargaining Committee remains committed to advocating for improvements that support the health, safety, and well-being of all members, and we will continue to keep you informed as negotiations progress.  

In addition, your Bargaining Committee has made progress on multiple articles within the Collective Agreement.  These articles remain either with the Company or with the Union to discuss further.

With the Company  

• Article 16 – Non-Bargaining Unit Employees and Inflight Duties

• Article 22 – Ad-Hoc Assignments

• Article 24 – Filling of Vacancies  

• Article 28 - Uniforms

• Article 40 – Charter Operations and Special Purpose Flights

With the Union:

• Article 19 – Travel Privileges & Jumpseat Access

• Article 32 – Health & Safety

Expired Contract: What It Means

We would like to remind all members that, although the current Collective Agreement has expired, the terms and conditions of CA1 remain in effect while bargaining continues until a renewed Collective Agreement is ratified.

Currently, there is no confirmed timeline for the completion of negotiations. Bargaining remains active, and we continue to make meaningful progress toward a renewed agreement.

As negotiations move forward, the Committee will be looking to build on and align with the gains recently achieved at the Mainline bargaining table wherever they make sense for Encore, while also recognizing that Encore is a distinct operation. Protecting the provisions that work well for Encore members, and ensuring any new language reflects the realities of the Encore operation, will continue to be an important part of our approach.

We are scheduled to meet with the Company again on August 25, with several additional bargaining dates planned throughout September.

We appreciate the continued patience and support of the membership and will provide updates as negotiations progress.

Members are also encouraged to follow, like, and share our Facebook and Instagram content. Increased engagement helps broaden awareness of the issues we are working on to advance beyond the bargaining table.

The Local’s podcast, In the Jumpseat, also provides information about negotiations and other activities within the Local and is available on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Spotify.

For live updates and to track the status of each article, please visit the Article Tracker at: https://wjcomponent.ca/encore-negotiation-tracker

Thank you for your continued solidarity. Your strength and support motivate us as we work together towards an agreement that recognizes your value and professionalism.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Alia Hussain - alia.hussain@wjcomponent.ca
Jennifer Kuhnert - jennifer.kuhnert@wjcomponent.ca
Natasha Selby - natasha.selby@wjcomponent.ca
Maria Gaw - maria.gaw@wjcomponent.ca

Encore Bargaining Update #12: Week 6 Summary Update

Dear Members,

Your Encore Bargaining Committee has now concluded the sixth week of both in-person and virtual negotiations.

This week saw a slower pace at the bargaining table, with both the Union and the Employer exchanging article pass-backs for further review and consideration.

We also met with Tara Ikeda, Senior Manager, Group Benefits, and Jennifer Mena-Yiukay, Director, Group Benefits, who provided a detailed overview of our current benefits program and introduced an alternative benefits option for the Committee's consideration.

The remainder of the week was spent working through counter-proposals, preparing responses to the Employer's positions, and developing multiple articles to present at our next bargaining session.

The following articles remain either with the Company or with the Union to discuss further:

With the Company

• Article 16 – Non-Bargaining Unit Employees and Inflight Duties

• Article 22 – Ad-Hoc Assignments

• Article 28 – Uniforms

• Article 40 – Charter Operations and Special Purpose Flights

With the Union:

• Article 19 – Travel Privileges & Jumpseat Access

• Article 24 – Filling of Vacancies

We recognize that this has been a significant and busy week, with our Mainline counterparts receiving an overwhelming mandate from their membership to vote YES in favour of job action.

Your Encore Bargaining Committee continues to stand in solidarity with Mainline as they navigate the next steps in their bargaining process. Members can expect to see additional communications and updates in the coming weeks as more information becomes available.

What does this mean for Encore?

It is important to understand that Encore and Mainline are separate bargaining units and are currently at different stages of the bargaining process. As a result, Encore is not included in any job action at this time.

For Encore members, negotiations continue as usual. We recognize that many members have questions and concerns about what Mainline's job action mandate could mean for Encore. As information becomes available and any potential impacts on our group becomes clearer, we are committed to providing timely updates to our members.

In the meantime, we encourage all members to continue referring to communications from the WestJet Component for the most current and accurate information regarding Mainline bargaining developments

Encore members can continue to show their support by sharing social media content issued by the WestJet Component and by wearing the red bracelets available through the Union Office at the airport or from a MESC member.

However, Encore members must not participate in the Red Lanyard Campaign or wear the Red Buttons while on duty.  Participating in these activities could be viewed by management as unsanctioned collective action and may result in discipline.

We understand the desire to support Mainline and show solidarity.  However, protecting our members from unnecessary disciplinary action remains our top priority.  Our time to stand up and make our voices heard will come, but it is essential that we continue to follow the legal framework of our own bargaining process.

If you haven’t already done so, we encourage you to follow, like, and share our posts on Facebook and Instagram. This increases visibility and brings attention to what we are working to achieve, expanding awareness beyond the bargaining table.

The Local’s Podcast, in the Jumpseat also has information around negotiations and activities within the Local. Members are encouraged to listen on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify.

For live updates and to track the status of each article, please visit the Article Tracker at: https://wjcomponent.ca/encore-negotiation-tracker

We will meet with the Company again on August 19, 2026, and will continue advancing meaningful proposals focused on improving working conditions and strengthening our Collective Agreement

Thank you for your continued solidarity. Your strength and support motivate us as we work together towards an agreement that recognizes your value and professionalism.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Alia Hussain - alia.hussain@wjcomponent.ca
Jennifer Kuhnert - jennifer.kuhnert@wjcomponent.ca
Natasha Selby - natasha.selby@wjcomponent.ca
Maria Gaw - maria.gaw@wjcomponent.ca

Encore Bargaining Update #11: Week 5 Summary Update

Dear Members,

Your Encore Bargaining Committee has now completed Week 5 of negotiations with the Company and is actively preparing for Week 6. As we continue to advance through the bargaining process, discussions are becoming increasingly detailed, with a greater focus on more complex and challenging articles. While progress is being made, these discussions require careful consideration and thorough engagement to ensure we achieve the best possible outcomes for our members.

This week, your committee responded to proposals from the Company and reached a Tentative Agreement on Article 29 (Discipline, Suspension, and Termination). As a result, we now have an Agreement in Principle in 19 articles.

In addition, your Bargaining Committee has made progress on multiple articles within the Collective Agreement. These articles remain either with the Company or with the Union to discuss further.

With the Company

• Article 16 – Non-Bargaining Unit Employees and Inflight Duties

• Article 22 – Ad-Hoc Assignments

• Article 24 – Filling of Vacancies

• Article 40 – Charter Operations and Special Purpose Flights

With the Union:

• Article 19 – Travel Privileges & Jumpseat Access

• Article 28 – Uniforms

As we stand in solidarity with our fellow Mainline CCMs, we recognize that we are currently at a different stage in the bargaining process. While we remain committed to supporting their efforts, our participation must align with our current bargaining position. At this time, members are encouraged to show their support by sharing social media content issued by the WestJet Component; however, we are not able to participate in the Red Lanyard Campaign. Wearing these campaign lanyards while on duty as an Encore member could be viewed by management as unsanctioned collective action, which could lead to discipline. We know how strong the desire is to show solidarity, but protecting our members from unnecessary discipline is our top priority. Our time to stand up and make our voices heard will come, but we must follow the legal framework of our own bargaining timeline.

If you haven’t already, we encourage you to follow, like, and share our posts on Facebook and Instagram. This increases visibility and brings attention to what we are working to achieve, expanding awareness beyond the bargaining table.

The Local’s Podcast, in the Jumpseat also has information around negotiations and activities within the Local. Members are encouraged to listen on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify.

For live updates and to track the status of each article, please visit the Article Tracker at: https://wjcomponent.ca/encore-negotiation-tracker

We will meet with the Company again on July 13, 2026, and will continue advancing meaningful proposals focused on improving working conditions.

Thank you for your continued solidarity. Your strength and support motivate us as we work together towards an agreement that recognizes your value and professionalism.

In Unity,

Alia Hussain - alia.hussain@wjcomponent.ca
Jennifer Kuhnert - jennifer.kuhnert@wjcomponent.ca
Natasha Selby - natasha.selby@wjcomponent.ca
Maria Gaw - maria.gaw@wjcomponent.ca

Encore Bargaining Update #10: Week 4 Summary Update

Dear Members,

This week marked our first full week at the bargaining table with the Company.  As we move further into the bargaining process, we are working through more detailed and nuanced articles that directly impact you.  We have begun grouping related articles, recognizing that many are interconnected and require careful, in-depth discussion.  We are taking the time needed to ensure each item is thoroughly addressed with our members’ best interests at the forefront.

This week we have reached Agreement in Principle on 4 additional articles.  

• Article 14 - Probation

• Article 26 - Aircraft And Company Assigned Equipment

• Article 30 - Grievance Procedure

• Article 50 - Legal  

This brings our total articles with an Agreement in Principle to 18.

In addition, your Bargaining Committee has made progress on multiple articles within the Collective Agreement.  These articles remain either with the Company or with the Union to discuss further.

With the Company

• Article 19 – Travel Privileges and Jump Seat Access  

• Article 22 – Ad-Hoc Assignments  

• Article 24 – Filling of Vacancies  

• Article 28 – Uniforms  

With the Union:

• Article 16 – Non-Bargaining Unit Employees and Inflight Duties  

• Article 29 – Discipline, Suspension, Termination  

• Article 40 – Charter Operations and Special Purpose Flights  

Your Bargaining Committee continues to gain confidence with each round of discussions as we move this process forward on your behalf.  While Mainline remains in the conciliation process, your Encore Bargaining Committee continues meeting with the Company, focused on securing a meaningful and fair agreement.

If you haven’t already, we encourage you to follow, like, and share our posts on Facebook and Instagram. This increases visibility and brings attention to what we are working to achieve, expanding awareness beyond the bargaining table. The Local’s Podcast, in the Jumpseat also has information around negotiations and activities within the Local. Members are encouraged to listen on Apple Podcasts, YouTube and Spotify.

For live updates and to track the status of each article, please visit the Article Tracker at: https://wjcomponent.ca/encore-negotiation-tracker

We will meet with the Company again on July 7, 2026, and will continue advancing meaningful proposals focused on improving working conditions.

Thank you for your continued solidarity. Your strength and support motivate us as we work together towards an agreement that recognizes your value and professionalism.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Alia Hussain - alia.hussain@wjcomponent.ca
Jennifer Kuhnert - jennifer.kuhnert@wjcomponent.ca
Natasha Selby - natasha.selby@wjcomponent.ca
Maria Gaw - maria.gaw@wjcomponent.ca

Encore Bargaining Update #9: Week 3 Summary Update

Dear Members,

Your WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee has concluded the third week of negotiations with the Company.

We are pleased to share that we reached agreement in principle on 4 additional articles:

• Article 27 – Passport/Visa/RAIC

• Article 33 – Hostage, Internment and Death

• Article 42 – Pay Schedule and Pay Discrepancies

• Article 45 - Expenses

This brings our total articles with an agreement in principle to 14.  

In addition to the articles we've agreed to in principle, progress has been made on several other components of your Collective Agreement. The items are currently under review by the Employer for continued discussion.

• Article 14 – Probation

• Article 16 – Non-Bargaining Unit Employees and Inflight Duties  

• Article 22 - Ad Hoc Assignments  

• Article 26 – Aircraft and Company Assigned Equipment  

• Article 28 – Uniforms  

• Article 29 – Discipline, Suspensions and Terminations

• Article 30 - Grievance Procedure

• Article 50 – Legal  

This past week the Bargaining Committee passed 8 articles initially, countered on 3 and tentatively agreed on 4.  We are pleased with the pace of which we are presenting articles to the Company, and we are striving to maintain it as we continue to get deeper into the bargaining process.  

If you haven’t already, we encourage you to follow, like, and share our posts on Facebook and Instagram. This increases our visibility and brings attention to what we are fighting for. Ultimately, increasing our reach beyond the bargaining table.

For live updates and to follow the progress of each article, please visit the Article Tracker at:  

https://wjcomponent.ca/encore-negotiation-tracker

We will be meeting with the Company again on June 15, 2026, and will continue advancing meaningful proposals to improve our working conditions.

Thank you for your continued solidarity. Your strength and support motivate us as we work together towards an agreement that recognizes your value and professionalism.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Alia Hussain - alia.hussain@wjcomponent.ca
Jennifer Kuhnert - jennifer.kuhnert@wjcomponent.ca
Natasha Selby - natasha.selby@wjcomponent.ca
Maria Gaw - maria.gaw@wjcomponent.ca

Encore Bargaining Update #8: Week 2 Summary Update

Dear Members,

Your WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee has concluded the second week of negotiations with the Company.  

We are pleased to share that we reached agreement in principle on 8 articles:

• Article 1 - Preamble

• Article 3 - Management Rights

• Article 4 - Union Recognition

• Article 5 - Workplace Violence, Discrimination & Harassment

• Article 10 – Deduction Of Dues

• Article 13 – Union Communication

• Article 23 – Compassionate Transfers

• Article 51 – Publishing of the Agreement

Beyond these tentatively agreed-to articles, we have made substantial progress on several areas of your Collective Agreement. These reside with either the Bargaining Committee or the Employer for further discussion.  

• Article 14 – Probation

• Article 26 – Aircraft & Company-Assigned Equipment

• Article 27 – Passport/Visa

• Article 33 – Hostage, Internment, or Death

This week we also welcomed Jill Husby – WestJet Labour Relations Advisor to the table for introductions and discussions, further reinforcing WestJet’s recognition of WestJet Encore Cabin Crew Members.  

Your Bargaining Committee has also met with the Mainline Bargaining Committee to discuss key shared issues affecting both Bargaining units.  These discussions are essential to keep a unified and coordinated approach when engaging with WestJet and WestJet Encore.  

As bargaining continues, your engagement is critical. Staying informed, united, and visible in your support makes our position stronger at the table.

Our next scheduled bargaining date is set for June.

If you haven’t already, we encourage you to follow, like, and share our posts on Facebook and Instagram. Members are also encouraged to wear their Union pin. This helps increase our visibility and brings attention to the issues we are fighting for. Ultimately, extending our reach beyond the bargaining table.

For real live updates and to follow the progress of each article, please visit the Article Tracker at:  

https://wjcomponent.ca/encore-negotiation-tracker

Thank you for your continued solidarity. Your strength and support motivate us as we work together toward an agreement that recognizes your value and professionalism.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Natasha Selby - natasha.selby@wjcomponent.ca
Maria Gaw - maria.gaw@wjcomponent.ca
Alia Hussain - alia.hussain@wjcomponent.ca
Jennifer Kuhnert - jennifer.kuhnert@wjcomponent.ca

Encore Bargaining Update #7 - Completion of Week 1 at the Table

Dear WestJet Encore Members,

Your WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee has wrapped up our first official week at the table.  The conversations were respectful, focused, and productive on both sides, and we are happy to share that we’ve already made some early progress.  

In our first week, we reached agreements in principle on two articles:

• Article 8 Amendments to the Agreement

• Article 9 Strike/Lockout

We are also actively talking through six more articles, which are currently with either the Committee or the Company for review.  These include important items like recognition, preamble, and discrimination. Nothing is finalized on these yet, but the discussions are moving, and the work is underway.

On day two, WestJet President Diederik Pen joined us at the table.  He shared his commitment to reaching an agreement that works for both the Company and WestJet Encore Cabin Crew Members and acknowledged the important role we play in the success of the operation.

Looking ahead, we have more bargaining days scheduled in May, and we are ready to keep building on this momentum.

Your support really matters during this process. The Company notices when members are informed, engaged, and united. Staying involved, wearing your union pin, and showing visible support for your Bargaining Committee helps strengthen our voice at the table.

Simply put, we’re only as strong as the members behind us.  Your unity is what keeps us pushing for an agreement that truly reflects your value and professionalism.

For real-time updates and to follow the progress of each article, check out the Article Tracker at wjcomponent.ca/encore-negotiation-tracker

We’ll continue to keep you updated after each bargaining session.  We thank you for standing with us.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Elected Representatives:
Natasha Selby - natasha.selby@wjcomponent.ca
Maria Gaw - maria.gaw@wjcomponent.ca

Executive:
Jennifer Kuhnert - jennifer.kuhnert@wjcomponent.ca
Alia Hussain - alia.hussain@wjcomponent.ca

Encore Bargaining Update # 6 - Day 1 at the Table

Dear Members,

Yesterday, your WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee met with the Company for the first day of bargaining. Opening statements were exchanged, including remarks from our President, Alia Hussain, outlining the bargaining priorities for this round of negotiations

CLICK HERE TO READ THE OPENING STATEMENT

From the outset, we have been unequivocal that meaningful change is not optional and cannot be delayed. WestJet Encore employees are facing real and ongoing challenges, and the current working conditions and compensation have never been sustainable. Our members deserve substantive and tangible improvements in this round of negotiations, and anything less fails to meet the urgency of their reality.  

Both parties reviewed several important protocol items, including a commitment to maintain respect and professionalism throughout the bargaining process from both the Company and the Union.  Work is underway to finalize additional bargaining dates in May and June to keep negotiations moving forward.

To help keep members informed, we have launched our Negotiations Tracker:

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE NEGOTIATIONS TRACKER

This resource will:

• Indicate which Articles are currently active and have negotiations in progress.

• Indicate which Articles have been Agreed to in Principle.

  • Important note: Articles that have been Agreed to in Principle do not mean they are finalized. It means that the Union and the Company have reached agreement; however, the entire Collective Agreement will be brought together as one ‘package’. All changes agreed to will be presented to the membership at the end of bargaining for a ratification vote.  

• Be updated as often as possible (generally at the end of a bargaining week), though not always in real time during critical stages of bargaining.

• Be used as a means to understand the progress being made at the table.  

It is standard practice that negotiations begin with non-monetary issues before moving on to monetary matters.  This ensures that language can be agreed on other articles prior to starting negotiations on bigger articles with financial aspects.  

It is important to remember that the negotiated language in all articles carries importance as they all impact our working conditions.  

We will continue to provide updates regularly, and it is important that members carefully read email communications to stay informed.  Your continued support and determination give the Bargaining Committee the collective strength to negotiate on your behalf.

Together, we are moving forward with strength and determination to achieve the change our members deserve.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Elected Representatives:
Natasha Selby - natasha.selby@wjcomponent.ca
Maria Gaw - maria.gaw@wjcomponent.ca

Executive:
Jennifer Kuhnert - jennifer.kuhnert@wjcomponent.ca
Alia Hussain - alia.hussain@wjcomponent.ca

Encore Bargaining Update #5 - Notice to Bargain Served

Dear Encore Members,

We would like to share an important update as we move into the next stage of our journey. Your WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee has formally served Notice to Bargain with the Company. This is the required first step under the Canada Labour Code and marks the official beginning of the collective bargaining process for our next agreement.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE NOTICE TO BARGAIN

Our first bargaining dates with the Company are scheduled for April 21–23 in Calgary. These meetings will begin a meaningful round of negotiations focused on improving the working conditions, compensation, and overall experience of our Cabin Crew Members.

Over the past several months, your feedback, conversations, and engagement have helped shape a clear and united direction. Issues such as unpaid work, fair compensation, and recognition of the essential role Cabin Crew plays in Encore’s success have been consistently reflected in the feedback and conversations we have had with members across the network. Your voices have guided our preparations, and they will continue to guide us at the table.

As we move forward, staying connected and supporting one another will be incredibly important. Bargaining can bring challenges, but when we stand united together, we bring a strong, and unified voice to the table. Your involvement, whether through questions, conversations, or simply staying informed, will continue to play an important role throughout the process.

We will continue to share regular updates and create opportunities for engagement as bargaining moves forward. Thank you for your ongoing support, your participation, and the trust you place in your Bargaining Committee, and know that your engagement will make the difference at the table.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Encore Bargaining Update #4 - Upcoming Bargaining Priorities Townhall

Dear Encore Members,

As we move through the final stages of preparation, this week marks an important moment in our path toward formal bargaining. We want to share a brief update outlining what to expect over the coming days and how you can stay connected and informed.

Town Hall – Monday, March 30, 2026

A reminder that our in-person Town Hall will take place Monday, March 30 at 2:00 PM MST at the Hampton Inn by Hilton Calgary Airport North. This session will focus on:

• Key themes and priorities emerging from member feedback

• How your input has shaped our bargaining preparations

• Timelines, next steps, and what to expect as we enter negotiations

• Space for member questions, discussion, and meaningful engagement

Your participation is crucial, and we encourage all members to attend. Please find the link to register in your email.

Serving Notice to Bargain – Thursday, April 2

On Thursday April 2, the Encore Bargaining Committee will officially serve notice to bargain. This marks the formal start of the Collective Bargaining process. Over the past several months, your feedback, survey responses, and engagement have helped shape a strong, informed, and unified foundation. As we move into the next phase, our focus remains on transparency, preparedness, and representing the full membership with clarity and respect.

Ongoing Work This Month

Throughout March, the Committee has continued refining our proposals and preparing for formal negotiations. This includes:

• Finalizing priority areas identified by members

• Reviewing scheduling, reserve, and other targeted contract articles

• Continuing comparison work across industry standards

• Strengthening communication plans in partnership with the MESC team

We also did additional training on pensions, including what future improvements could look like for Encore members.

Looking Ahead

As we enter the bargaining phase, staying connected will be more important than ever. We’ll continue to provide regular updates, resources, and opportunities for you to participate. Your engagement, whether through get‑togethers, questions, or ongoing dialogue, plays a vital role in ensuring we bring a strong, unified voice to the table.

Thank you for your continued support, your involvement, and your trust. We’re looking forward to seeing many of you at the Town Hall next week.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Encore Bargaining Update #3 - Preparations for Bargaining

Dear Encore Members,

Thank you to everyone who took the time to complete the recent survey. Your participation is deeply appreciated and continues to guide the direction of our work. Over the past several weeks, the Bargaining Committee has carefully reviewed the feedback, identifying shared priorities as well as areas where viewpoints differ. This member‑driven information helps us better understand what matters most as we approach the next steps in bargaining.

We are now in the final stages of preparing for formal negotiations. As a reminder, the earliest date we are permitted to serve notice to bargain is March 31, 2026. Until then, our focus remains on preparation, research, and ensuring we enter the bargaining process with a strong, informed, and unified position while also recognizing that members may hold a range of expectations and concerns. Our commitment is to move forward in a way that is steady, transparent, and supportive of the entire membership.

Additional Bargaining Preparation Updates

Our committee has completed major contract comparisons, reviewing not only our agreement but also broader industry standards. These comparisons have helped identify areas where adjustments may be appropriate and where members have expressed recurring concerns. As we continue this work, we will begin deeper reviews of the scheduling and reserve articles which were topics frequently raised in member feedback. Our approach will prioritize clarity and fairness, recognizing that these issues can create tension and differing expectations.

We also want to thank everyone who attended our Bargaining Process Webinar. Your participation, whether through questions, comments, or thoughtful engagement helps strengthen our process. A link to the recording is available for those who could not attend.

Link to recorded Webinar:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uyA2awzGXyU&t=3s

Connecting Before We Bargain

Before we officially serve notice, the Encore Bargaining Committee will be hosting an in‑person town hall. This gathering provides members with a constructive opportunity to connect directly with the Committee, learn more about the work accomplished so far, and understand what lies ahead.

The town hall is designed to promote open communication, clarity, and thoughtful discussion.

Whether you are new to Encore or have participated in bargaining cycles before, your presence matters. We understand that members may approach these conversations with strong feelings or differing viewpoints, and this town hall offers a structured and supportive space to express those perspectives productively.

During the Town Hall, we’ll be presenting:

• The major themes and goals for CA2

  • An overview of the core priorities that emerged from the survey and comparison work.

• How member feedback has shaped our preparation

  • Examples of how input from the membership has informed our approach to upcoming negotiations.

• Timelines and key stages in the bargaining process

  • A clear outline of the steps ahead, so everyone understands the process and expectations remain consistent.

• Time for member questions, discussion, and engagement

  • A dedicated space for members to share questions and concerns in a respectful and constructive environment.

Town halls continue to be a valuable part of our democratic process. We recognize that in a high‑conflict environment, clarity and communication are especially important. These sessions help ensure that members feel informed, heard, and grounded as we prepare to move into formal bargaining.

In Person Town Hall Details

• March 30, 2026

• 2:00 PM MST

• Hampton Inn by Hilton Calgary Airport North

Please watch your email for the registration link, which will be sent soon. We encourage all members to attend, bring questions, and stay engaged in a way that supports open dialogue and shared understanding.

Member Engagement and Looking Ahead

To close the month, the Bargaining Committee met with the Member Engagement and Strike Committee (MESC) to explore new ways to enhance engagement and communication. In groups where conflict dynamics can be heightened, ongoing and clear communication becomes especially important. Our goal is to support a steady, well‑informed membership throughout the entire bargaining cycle and not just during negotiations.

As we move forward, we will continue providing updates, sharing resources, and creating opportunities for involvement. Your commitment, your questions, and your willingness to stay informed help strengthen our collective path forward. Thank you for your continued support and engagement.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Encore Bargaining Update #2 - Preparations for Bargaining

Dear Encore Members,

This communication is intended to provide a factual update on the work currently underway by your bargaining team.

Over the past month, the bargaining team has been engaged in preparation activities for the upcoming round of negotiations. This work has focused on ensuring the team is informed, trained, and ready to represent members’ interests at the bargaining table.

As part of this preparation, the team has been conducting contract comparisons with similar agreements. This analysis is a standard and necessary step in the bargaining process and supports informed decision-making when developing bargaining proposals.

The bargaining survey continues to be promoted to members. Participation in the survey is an important mechanism for members to communicate their priorities directly to the bargaining team. Survey results will be used to inform bargaining objectives.

During this period, bargaining team members also completed retirement security/income training and media training provided with the support of CUPE National. These sessions are intended to strengthen the team’s technical understanding and communication capacity throughout negotiations.

The team has also met with the newly assigned CUPE National servicing representative, Chris Hill, who will be supporting the Encore bargaining process going forward.

Looking ahead, a Bargaining Process Town Hall is scheduled for February 19 at 1:00 p.m. The purpose of this session is to outline the bargaining process, explain next steps, and provide members with clear information about how negotiations proceed. Registration details will be shared separately.

The bargaining team will continue to provide updates as material developments occur. Members are encouraged to rely on official union communications for accurate information regarding bargaining.

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Alia Hussain - President
Jennifer Wielohorski-Kuhnert - Encore Unit VP
Mary Ann Lee - Encore Rep
Maria Gaw - Encore Rep

Encore Bargaining Update #1 - Preparations for Bargaining

Dear Encore Members,

This week, your Encore Bargaining Committee has been hard at work preparing for the initial Bargaining Priorities Survey. We expect to distribute the survey between late January and February 2026. This is your opportunity to let us know what matters most to you. More details will follow as we get closer to the release date.

The information collected from the survey will be used to shape the direction of bargaining and will be referenced regularly by your Bargaining Committee. We were fortunate to have the support of our CUPE National Researcher, who supports all airlines within the Airline Division of CUPE. Their expertise assisted us in formulating the survey and identifying overarching themes that will be explored.

The survey's responses will remain anonymous, and only the consolidated data will be used. To protect the integrity of our bargaining proposals, please note that we will not immediately be publishing or openly sharing the data that comes out of the survey responses. This would give the Company insight into our Bargaining Priorities. It is integral that we protect our position at the table, and the Bargaining Committee is committed to sharing as much information as possible when appropriate.

The Bargaining Committee began formulating a strategic plan and general timelines for bargaining. Our strategic plan is a dynamic guiding document. It includes a communication and a member education plan, a process for determining our priorities, and approaches for responding to the constantly evolving environment we face. This plan will interface with the Member Engagement and Strike (MESC) Committee’s activities for member engagement and mobilization. In bargaining 30% of the power comes from the committee; the remaining 70% comes from the unity of the membership supporting our bargaining efforts.

Looking ahead to early next year, we will launch a bargaining-related learning series as part of our member education initiatives, including a live webinar explaining the bargaining process.

In the above graphic, you will see an overview of the Bargaining Process. We are currently in the Preparation Phase. These will complement other resources already available on our union website. Link Here to the Encore Bargaining HQ Website: wjcomponent.ca/encore-bargaining-hq

You can also explore the Local’s podcast (In the Jumpseat) for more insights.

As we draw closer to the expiry of our collective agreement, we will be meeting more frequently to prepare for bargaining. You can expect regular updates, starting with the Bargaining Priorities Survey. We are also planning a Town Hall to answer your other bargaining-related questions and keep you informed. The details will follow soon.

Finally, from all of us on your Encore Bargaining Committee: your support, engagement, and commitment will ultimately make our workplace better for all of us at Encore.  We wish you happy holidays, safe skies, and see you in the new year!

In Unity,

WestJet Encore Bargaining Committee

Jennifer Wielohorski-Kuhnert - Encore Unit VP
Mary Ann Lee - Encore Rep
Maria Gaw - Encore Rep
Alia Hussain - President
Alex Grigoriev - Local Executive (Alternate)
Cameron Jones - Local Executive (Alternate)

Welcome to the Encore Bargaining Blog

Hello Members,

This space will serve as the central hub for all official updates, announcements, and information related to our upcoming Encore 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 encore members of the WestJet Component (CUPE 8125).

Your Bargaining Committee