Release #: WJA 23.05
June 09, 2023

WestJet & Swoop Pilots Ratify Agreement with Major Compensation and Quality-of-Life Improvements

Calgary, AB—WestJet and Swoop pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), have ratified a new four-year employment contract with industry-leading pay increases, strong job-security protections, and major scheduling and quality-of-life improvements.

Of the 95 percent of eligible pilots who cast ballots, 87 percent voted in favour of the agreement, which goes a long way to recognizing the value and expertise the pilots bring to their airline and will help solve many of WestJet’s pilot attraction and retention issues.

“Since negotiations began, we have been clear that our experienced and dedicated pilots deserve a contract that delivers on the goals of better job security, enhanced compensation, and more flexible schedules to allow for a better work/life balance,” said Capt. Bernard Lewall, chair of the WestJet ALPA Master Executive Council (MEC). “We believe this contract, which is consistent with collective agreements other ALPA-represented pilot groups are signing with their employers, does just that.”

Since negotiations began last September, WestJet management has repeatedly touted its plans for their future growth strategy. With ratification, the pilots have sent a strong message that they remain committed to being a major contributor to WestJet’s success and helping the company recognize its future growth plans.

“Having this agreement in place will go a long way to solve many of the airline’s labour issues, and bring more stability to our operations,” continued Lewall. “I look forward to seeing our airline grow and become a career destination for pilots, once again, which will benefit everyone from our company to our passengers and fellow employees.”

The contract goes into effect July 1, 2023, with retroactive pay to January 1, 2023, and will expire December 31, 2026.

Founded in 1931, ALPA is the largest airline pilot union in the world and represents more than 74,000 pilots at 42 U.S. and Canadian airlines. Visit ALPA.org or follow us on Twitter @ALPAPilots.

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CONTACT: ALPA Media, 703-481-4440 or Media@alpa.org