WestJet February Layoff Update

Dear Members,

The Union would like to report back to you following meetings with our Employer surrounding the already announced Layoffs which are being enacted February 1st. This is a result of the severe demand drop following the Trudeau Government’s hastily enacted COVID-19 testing requirements for all inbound international travellers to Canada.

Demand has continued to drop, and cancellations are high. As a result, the Union has been informed that while the initial estimate of Member layoffs was 175, it will realistically be greater than 200, due to the cancellations and demand crash being experienced. This number can continue to grow based on further reduction in demand.

As a result of the change in layoff numbers, the Employer will be offering voluntary layoffs as a mitigation measure, and will be awarded by seniority. The Employer will be sending an email with details to your company email.

These are voluntary layoffs for Members not necessarily impacted by this layoff. Recall will occur based on market demand and network growth, and based on your date-of-hire (DOH) seniority. Please be assured that your Union is involved in this process at every step. Active Members can expect notification to your company email starting today offering this opportunity and providing more details.

Once voluntary layoffs are awarded, the remaining number of required layoffs will be assigned reverse-seniority based on DOH. Members who will be placed on involuntary layoff will be notified by the Company by end-of-week, after processing voluntary layoffs.

Should you have questions regarding the February 2021 voluntary or involuntary layoffs, please first contact your DPM and/or leadership team. Should you require further assistance from the Union, please contact us at www.cupe4070.ca/contact.


In Solidarity,
Your CUPE 4070 Executive Team