WestJet mechanics issue strike notice for possible job action Friday

WestJet says it faces a possible strike by its mechanics starting as early as Friday.

The airline says the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association has issued a strike notice that could mean a work stoppage as early as 5:30 p.m. MT on Friday.

The notice comes after the union called off its strike plans last week and returned to the negotiating table.

But Ian Evershed, a spokesperson for the union, said the airline wasn't being productive at the bargaining table.

"So we feel that our only recourse is to again put  everyone under the pressure of the strike notice and continue bargaining as such," he said.

WestJet says it will start taking action in the coming days to manage the impacts of the possible job action.

The airline cancelled dozens of flights last week before contract talks resumed.

WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech said the airline is offering an industry-leading, 22 per cent wage increase over four years, and that he believes the union is making unreasonable demands.

"All other unions would immediately shake hands over a deal like this," von Hoensbroech said. 

He said flight cancellations could begin as soon as Thursday.

"So we can't just stop flying at a certain point in time. So we need to orderly wind down," he said.

"And I think it was seen last week that this will require some cancellations ahead of it. So if there's no resolution inside, which I don't see right now, then first cancellations can be expected for tomorrow."

Union members voted overwhelmingly to reject a tentative deal earlier this month and have voiced opposition to WestJet's request for arbitration.