Our History: Local 531
Local 531 was established in May 2021 when WestJet bases YYC and YVR received their certification from the CIRB for Unifor to be the sole bargaining representative for our workplaces.
Local 531 was established with 531 members; hence our name, Local 531.
YYZ joined us soon after on June 1st, 2023.
Ramp Service Agents in YYC and YYZ joined us March 1st, 2025.
Currently, Local 531 represents over 1700 workers from WestJet bases in Vancouver, Calgary, and Toronto from both above and below-the-wing operations.
WestJet Crew Schedulers Move to Join UNIFOR
- Union Drive Initiation: The formal application for certification was first filed with the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) in late May 2025.
- Active Application: Unifor has an active application before the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) to certify a bargaining unit consisting of Crew Schedulers, Lead Crew Schedulers, and Shift Lead Crew Schedulers.
- Mediation: A mediation session between Unifor and WestJet was scheduled for March 6, 2026, with an Industrial Relations Officer to address ongoing disputes.
- Unfair Labour Practice Complaint: On March 11, 2026, Unifor filed an Unfair Labour Practice complaint against WestJet (Onex). The union alleges the company improperly withheld a 2% wage structure increase and training allowances from crew schedulers during the organizing process.
WestJet Contact Centre workers Move to Join UNIFOR
- Dec 2025 Application filed for certification of WestJet Contact Centre workers.