Calgary-based WestJet is weighing the possibility of employing temporary foreign workers (TFWs) to address a shortage of captains for its regional airline, WestJet Encore.
Spokesperson Julia Kaiser confirmed the airline is exploring the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process as one of several options to mitigate the staffing issue. The LMIA is a government-required step for employers seeking to hire TFWs, demonstrating that no local workers are available for the position.
However, the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) Canada, representing WestJet pilots, claims the airline has already received federal approval for TFW hires—an assertion neither WestJet nor Employment and Social Development Canada has confirmed.
ALPA President Capt. Tim Perry criticized the airline’s move, stating that WestJet should focus on improving pilot wages and working conditions through collective bargaining rather than seeking temporary foreign labor. He also expressed frustration that neither the airline nor the federal government consulted the union before proceeding.
Aviation expert John Gradek noted that while pilot shortages are a global issue stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, he believes the TFW program is not a suitable solution for securing high-quality aviation professionals.
WestJet has not yet hired any pilots under the program, and the federal database listing approved TFW employers has not been updated with 2025 data. Meanwhile, the controversy continues, with union representatives insisting their bargaining rights have been undermined.
Source: Swifteradio.com
