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WestJet union files complaint over pilot recruitment for low-cost Swoop airline

Feb 9, 2018 | 10:15 AM

CALGARY — The union that represents WestJet and WestJet Encore pilots 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.

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.