Fellow pilots,

Today marks a notable day as Sunwing pilots are now officially under ALPA. Welcome, you are now a member of ALPA Local 270!

As a reminder, as per the July 30th decision by the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB), the Sunwing Collective Agreement #4 has been extended to November 30, 2025. Sunwing pilots will be awarded WestJet wages starting today. You will see this on your December 20th paycheque.

Transition periods are always challenging and so we would like to emphasize the importance of remaining respectful, and supportive, of one another, as well as with our new colleagues at WestJet. It was not our choice to enter into this merger, but it is our choice in how we present ourselves as professional pilots in the flight deck moving forward. We have faith our pilots can lead by example to help unite our two pilot groups to focus on the challenges ahead.

We are proud of our Sunwing pilots and their rich histories and experiences, which is why our membership adds further value to the strength of ALPA. Our pilot group brings with it a depth and diversity of industry experience that has always been a source of strength for our union local and we are excited to pair that strength with what ALPA can offer us in terms of support, services, and resources.

ALPA provides three critical services to its members which are airline safety, security, and pilot assistance; representation; and advocacy. Through unbiased, fact-based evaluation of airline safety and security issues, ALPA works to ensure that the airline industry remains safe. ALPA has been a leader in many aspects of aviation safety, from TCAS to the Flight Duty Regulations and flight deck design. We look forward to being part of this organization.

It is important to note that our autonomy as your MEC remains. We will continue to govern and administer our members who voted for us and continue to trust in our ability to advocate and represent them. A letter from Captain Jason Ambrosi, president ALPA, establishing your current MEC as custodians has been attached for your review. 

We know in the coming days and weeks you will have many questions, but we ask for patience and understanding as we navigate this change together.

In the coming weeks you will receive communications from us, as well as ALPA staff and volunteers outlining the steps in the transition.

In the meantime, if you have any questions, please email swgmec@alpa.org.

In unity,

Your MEC