The federal government has stepped in to make sure there is no WestJet strike just as the long weekend begins. A news release from West Jet says job action has been avoided.

The federal government has directed the Canada Industrial Relations Board to impose final binding arbitration to help WestJet and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association in reaching a first collective agreement. Both sides agree to abide by the arbitration.

President of WestJet Airlines and Group Chief Operating Officer, Diederik Pen, says, “With the government’s actions, the summer travel plans of Canadians have been protected and we have a path to resolution.” There are about 680 union members who are maintenance engineers at WestJet.