WestJet pilots' union files complaint over recruitment for new low-cost airline
Union alleges company negotiated directly with pilots instead of the union over employment at Swoop
The union that represents pilots with WestJet and WestJet Encore says it has filed an unfair labour practice complaint over the airline's recruitment of pilots for Swoop, its new ultra-low-cost carrier slated to begin flying in June.
The Air Line Pilots Association, International, says it has applied to the Canada Industrial Relations Board for a "cease and desist" order.
It alleges WestJet Airlines Ltd. violated provisions of the Canada Labour Code by directly negotiating with pilots instead of the union over employment at Swoop, thus changing and ignoring well-established rules and policies. WestJet declined to comment on the labour board filing.
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During a conference call on Tuesday, CEO Gregg Saretsky said he wants to allow pilots from WestJet and WestJet Encore to seek promotions to work at the new airline and that WestJet is negotiating with the union to maintain one seniority list for all of its pilots, thus allowing them to move from one brand to another without losing pay and seniority rights.
Swoop is to launch with three aircraft in June and grow to six by September and 10 by the spring of next year, eventually reaching 30 to 40 aircraft on domestic and international flights.
The union says it has also asked the federal labour minister to appoint a conciliation officer to help move along stalled negotiations with WestJet to conclude terms of its first contract. WestJet pilots voted to be represented by ALPA last year.