WestJet flight attendants have voted overwhelmingly to approve a new three‑year deal, ending a turbulent round of bargaining that included a one‑day strike and hundreds of cancelled flights.
CUPE 8125, which represents roughly 4,400 cabin crew, says just over 90 per cent of members voted in favour of ratification following a week‑long ballot that closed Monday.
“This is a strong mandate from our members and recognition of the meaningful gains we made at the bargaining table,” said union president Alia Hussain.
The deal was reached earlier this month after negotiations stalled over pay structure and compensation for work performed on the ground.
The agreement is in effect from the beginning of this year and will last until Dec. 31, 2028. CUPE says the contract provides more than an 18 per cent wage increase over three years, including a 13 per cent raise this October, a 2.75 per cent increase in January, and another 2.5 per cent hike at the start of 2028.
The union says the deal also introduces new paid compensation for duties cabin crew previously performed without pay.
“This is only our second contract, and we made important progress, including making sure our members are compensated for more of the work they already do,” said Hussain.
The labour dispute caused significant disruption for travellers, with WestJet cancelling more than 900 flights during the height of summer travel before gradually restoring its schedule.
With files from The Canadian Press
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