Discussions between WestJet and its pilots are still ongoing, but job actions – including strikes – at the major airline remain on the table.
 

The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) has continued its talks with the company throughout the weekend, and meetings are expected to continue today, Monday.
 

Officials say a 72-hour strike notice has not been given, but this does not rule out the possibility in the future.

If that happens, Canadian passenger rights rules require airlines to offer rebooking of canceled flight passengers on another airline’s flight within at least 48 hours of departure time.

After this point, travelers can get a refund but can also accept a voucher with the airline.

WestJet stated on May 8 that it has a plan "to minimize what could have a significant impact on guest travel." Job protection, wages, and scheduling are among the key points the company and union are discussing.

Without a contract, ALPA says WestJet pilots continue to leave the airline for competitors, putting ongoing pressure on the aviation industry, which says it is already experiencing a significant labor shortage. In March, Delta Air Lines pilots reached a deal that includes a 34 percent wage increase over four years.

The Air Canada Pilots Association aims for major gains as well. In a letter to members on Thursday, the union said workers must decide by May 29 whether to stick with their 10-year collective agreement signed in 2014 or choose to start full negotiations before the set date this year.

The letter said, "Pilots at Air Canada work at a significant discount compared to our North American competitors," calling for “historic” gains in the next deal. ALPA represents nearly 1,600 flight crews at WestJet and its Swoop branch. The closest opportunity for the union to issue a strike notice was at 12:01 a.m. on Saturday, but since that did not happen, the strike possibility has been postponed.