“In the meantime, the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association has rescinded its strike notice, with both parties jointly agreeing to return to the bargaining table to continue work towards finding a resolution,” it added.
On Monday, WestJet mechanics gave a 72-hour strike notice and said they were ready to walk off the job as early as Thursday night.
The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, which represents some 670 aircraft maintenance engineers and other skilled-trade positions at the carrier, says it made the decision after WestJet cut off talks this week.
Union members voted overwhelmingly to reject a tentative deal last week and voiced opposition to the airline’s request for arbitration.
In anticipation of the potential strike action, WestJet cancelled 31 flights scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, impacting roughly 6,500 customers.
The airline says it is “making every effort to reaccommodate guests” and “working to resume normal operations as quickly and efficiently as possible.”
“We recognize the impact the initial cancellations had on our guests and our , and we sincerely appreciate their patience and understanding during this time,” said Diederik Pen, president of WestJet Airlines and Group chief operating officer.
