Release #: 20.02
August 28, 2020
WestJet Pilots Support Airlines Zero Tolerance Mask Policy
CALGARY, ALB.—Earlier today the WestJet Group announced additional safety measures will come into effect September 1, 2020. These measures include “a zero-tolerance policy in support of the requirement for all guests, over the age of two, to wear masks and face coverings,” with a warning that noncompliant guests will be denied boarding, or the aircraft will return to the gate to remove the passenger. Additionally, a year-long suspension from being able to travel on any WestJet Group aircraft, including WestJet, Encore, Link, and Swoop, will be issued.
According to the new WestJet Airlines policy, steps will also be taken to acquire “the mandatory input of all guests' contact information at online and kiosk check-in to help the Public Health Agency of Canada and the provincial public health agencies across Canada with contact tracing in the case of infected individuals on board.”
Capt. Dave Colquhoun, chair of the WestJet Master Executive Council of the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) said, “Members of the WestJet Group and WestJet ALPA share a common goal: the safety and security of our valued guests. We are pleased to see our employer continue to implement addition layers of health and safety measures, to ensure your journey is as safe as possible.”
“As our industry continues to grapple with the challenges brought on by COVID-19, WestJet Encore pilots support our airline’s efforts to ensure that the safety of our guests and flight crews remain a priority,” noted Encore ALPA Master Executive Council chair Capt. Ryan Leier.
“ALPA Canada believes that, for a safe and sustainable recovery from the impacts of COVID-19, all sectors of the aviation industry and government must work together to find practical solutions,” added ALPA Canada President Tim Perry. “Taking steps like this will instill increased passenger confidence and keep those flying safer than before.”
Founded in 1931, ALPA is the world’s largest pilot union, representing more than 63,000 pilots at 35 airlines in the United States and Canada. Visit the ALPA website at www.alpa.org or follow us on Twitter @WeAreALPA.
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CONTACT: ALPA Media, 703-481-4440 or Media@alpa.org