WestJet plane at the Lethbridge Airport. (Lethbridge News Now) pandemic fallout WestJet lays off 6,900 employees Mar 24, 2020 2:40 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Nearly half of all of WestJet’s workers are no longer employed by the company.

“Today, 6,900 WestJetters are receiving notices confirming early retirements, early outs, and both voluntary and involuntary leaves,” said Ed Sims, WestJet President and CEO. “This is devastating news for all WestJetters. The fact that we avoided a potentially worse outcome is testament to the spirit and selfless attitude demonstrated by our people.”

Around 7,100 workers remain on the job.

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, the airline released more than 80 per cent of its contract workforce, instituted a hiring freeze, stopped all non-essential travel and training, suspended any internal role movements and salary adjustments, pausing more than 75 per cent of its capital projects, and asked suppliers for a reduction or delay in payments.