Release #: WJA 22.01
March 03, 2022

WestJet Pilots React to the Purchase of Sunwing Vacations and Airlines by WestJet Group

CALGARY, AB—Capt. Dave Kingston, chair of the WestJet Master Executive Council, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), issued the following statement in response to news that a definitive agreement has been reached for the WestJet Group of companies to acquire Sunwing Vacations and Sunwing Airlines.

“Although very few details have been made available, we are encouraged to hear from executives at both airlines that there will be no job losses in the planned takeover, and we look forward to ensuring the pilots’ priorities are linked to the future success of this acquisition.

“WestJet is a leader in the Canadian travel industry and while this acquisition may make sense for the business, we remind them that they must work with ALPA and their other employee groups to ensure that this pivotal transaction is equally beneficial for all employees.

“From the pilot group’s perspective, in order to reach a successful outcome, we believe any transaction with Sunwing must translate into opportunity for the pilots. Among other important considerations, this deal should provide greater labour protections and job security for pilots of both airlines.

Founded in 1931, ALPA is the world’s largest pilot union, representing more than 62,000 pilots at 38 airlines in the United States and Canada. Visit the ALPA website at www.alpa.org or follow us on Twitter @ALPACanada and @WeAreALPA.

-###-

CONTACT: ALPA Media, 703-481-4440 or Media@alpa.org