A total of 44 pilots for WestJet, Canada’s second largest airline, are scheduled to lose their jobs at the end of the month after the International Civil Aviation Organization refused to change its mandatory retirement age of 65 for pilots. Canada doesn’t have an age cap for airline pilots so those 44 have been restricted to domestic routes, but WestJet says it’s too much trouble to manage that mix of qualifications. It cited “growing operational and regulatory complexities” to keep the pilots on because they can’t fly outside of Canada or even flight plan alternates in the U.S. In addition to the U.S., WestJet flies to Europe, the Caribbean, and Asia. The ICAO last week rejected a bid by the International Air Transport Association to raise its retirement age to 67.
The Air Line Pilots Association has grieved the decision, which was made last June, and it’s been sent to arbitration. The union has applied for an interim order blocking the firings until the arbitrator makes his decision. Precedent is not on the WestJet pilots’ side, however. In 2021 a Canada Labour Code arbitrator ruled it was unreasonable to make Air Canada keep pilots after they turned 65 given the problems it causes with scheduling and deployment of those pilots.
Did I just read that ALPA is in favor of allowing airline pilots over 65 to continue flying in Canada, but against the same rule as it applies to US airline pilots??
They grieved the decision to let the 44 pilots go, not to change the retirement age to 67.
Here’s the full quote from the union rep and it is carefully worded: “This decision by WestJet management will affect many of their long-term dedicated employees that helped build WestJet into the respected airline it is today,” Lewall said in a statement provided to Postmedia. “We believe WestJet should respect its workers and their rights, as protected by the collective agreement and the Canadian Human Rights Act.”
There are 44 FO’s who are going to be happy.
Fired, not let go!
I think the new term is “Termed.” Sounds cleaner than “fired,” and a lot more modern than “forced out for being old.” Either way, it marks that magical point where experience becomes a liability. 🤔
Give them a special severance along with something for those approaching 65 who planned to stay on.
Canucks lack of mandatory, forced retirement age is a large factor in your massive career underpayment short earnings. The sick cycle means your can’t afford to retire, ICAO rules trap you domestic and inefficient and working longer. A lose, lose, lose propsition. You, employer and peers all lose.
You want the goal line. You learn that in Florida from the retired Yanks after it is too late for you and sadly don’t sell it to the young pilots just starting out back north.