WestJet Flight Attendant Collective Agreement: What You Need to Know
WestJet Airlines is a Canadian low-cost carrier that operates flights to various domestic and international destinations. As with any airline, the flight attendants are an essential part of the operation, ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers. Recently, WestJet flight attendants negotiated a new collective agreement, which has implications for both the airline and its employees. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the WestJet Flight Attendant Collective Agreement and what it means for those involved.
What is a Collective Agreement?
A collective agreement is a legally binding contract between an employer and a union that represents a group of workers. It outlines the terms and conditions of employment, including compensation, benefits, working conditions, and job security. Collective agreements are negotiated between the union and the employer, with each side presenting their proposals and bargaining until an agreement is reached that both sides can accept. Once ratified, the collective agreement is put into effect for a set period of time, usually several years.
The WestJet Flight Attendant Collective Agreement
In September 2021, WestJet flight attendants ratified a new collective agreement with the airline. The agreement covers over 3,000 flight attendants and is in effect until December 31, 2025. Some of the key provisions of the agreement include:
– Wage increases: Flight attendants will receive wage increases of 2.5% per year for the duration of the agreement.
– Pension plan improvements: The airline will make improvements to the defined contribution plan, including increased employer matching contributions.
– Job security: The agreement includes provisions to protect the jobs of flight attendants in the event of layoffs or downsizing.
– Health benefits: The airline will continue to provide comprehensive health benefits to flight attendants, including drug, dental, and vision coverage.
– Schedule changes: The agreement includes provisions to allow flight attendants to bid on their schedules and to swap shifts with other flight attendants.
– Work-life balance: The airline will work with the union to address issues related to work-life balance and to develop programs to support flight attendants’ mental health.
What Does the Agreement Mean for WestJet and its Flight Attendants?
For WestJet, the agreement means that it has secured a stable labor environment for the next four years. The airline can plan and budget with certainty, knowing that its flight attendants are covered by a collective agreement. The agreement also shows that WestJet values its employees and is committed to providing competitive compensation, benefits, and working conditions.
For flight attendants, the agreement means that they have job security and stability for the next four years. It also means that they will receive wage increases and other benefits that will help them achieve better work-life balance. The improvements to the pension plan will help ensure that flight attendants have a secure retirement.
Conclusion
The WestJet Flight Attendant Collective Agreement is an important contract that outlines the terms and conditions of employment for over 3,000 flight attendants at the airline. The agreement provides wage increases, pension plan improvements, job security, and other benefits for flight attendants, while also giving WestJet stability and certainty in its labor relations. Overall, the agreement is a win-win for both the airline and its employees.