WestJet Encore flight attendants file dispute over contract negotiations

Flight attendants at WestJet Encore, represented by CUPE 8125, have filed a notice of dispute with the Canadian federal government. The move seeks the appointment of a government-appointed conciliator to resolve stalled contract negotiations.

The union is advocating for an end to unpaid work, compensation parity with WestJet mainline flight attendants, and improved working conditions. CUPE 8125 President Alia Hussain stated that Encore cabin crew remain among the lowest-paid flight attendants in Canada.

Filing the notice initiates a federal conciliation process that can last up to 60 days. If an agreement is not reached, a 21-day cooling-off period follows, after which either party can issue a 72-hour strike or lockout notice. The NDP has also urged the federal government to respect collective bargaining rights and refrain from intervening to force workers back to work.