WestJet mechanics issue strike notice for possible job action Friday

WestJet says it faces a possible strike by its mechanics starting as early as Friday.

The airline says the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association has issued a strike notice that could mean a work stoppage as early as 5:30 p.m. MTon Friday.

The notice comes after the union called off its strike plans last week and returned to the negotiating table.

ButIan Evershed, a spokesperson for the union, said the airline wasn't being productive at the bargaining table.

"So we feel that our only recourse is to again put everyone under the pressure of the strike notice and continue bargaining as such," he said.

WestJet says it will start taking action in the coming days to manage the impacts of the possible job action.

The airline cancelled dozens of flights last week before contract talks resumed.

WestJet CEOAlexis von Hoensbroech saidthe airline is offering an industry-leading, 22 per cent wage increase over four years, and that he believesthe union is making unreasonable demands.

"All other unions would immediately shake hands over a deal like this," von Hoensbroech said.

He saidflight cancellations could begin as soon as Thursday.

"So we can't just stop flying at a certain point in time. So we need to orderly wind down," he said.

"And I think it was seen last week that this will require some cancellations ahead of it. So if there's no resolution inside, which I don't see right now, then first cancellations can be expected for tomorrow."

Union members voted overwhelmingly to reject a tentative deal earlier this month and have voiced opposition to WestJet's request for arbitration.