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The arbitrator presiding over the negotiation between WestJet, Swoop Inc. and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), International, has issued a binding interim order regarding Swoop.
The binding interim order, issued June 7, directs — among other things — that existing Swoop pilots will remain in their current positions until directed otherwise by the arbitrator, and that WestJet pilots can now fly Swoop aircraft at Swoop terms and conditions.
The interim order further directs that ALPA, WestJet and Swoop will make a joint application to the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) requesting the board to amend ALPA’s bargaining certificate to recognize ALPA as the bargaining agent for pilots of Swoop, in addition to the pilots of WestJet by Sept. 1, 2018.
The arbitrator has further directed that additional hearing dates are required through the summer and into September to properly address all outstanding issues.
“We recognize and respect the interim order which is in line with the WestJet Group’s original direction that WestJet pilots should have the ability to operate Swoop aircraft,” said Ed Sims, president and CEO of the WestJet Group of Companies.
Steven Greenway, Swoop president commented, “The order allows us to redouble our efforts and focus our attention on the rapidly approaching launch of Swoop on June 20, 2018, from Hamilton.”
