WestJet has agreed to pay $4.5 million to resolve a sexual harassment class-action lawsuit involving over 3,000 flight attendants that was initiated ten years ago. The settlement terms were approved by a B.C. judge on Monday, following finalization in June. WestJet expressed satisfaction with reaching a settlement.
The lawsuit was instigated by former flight attendant Mandalena Lewis, who accused a pilot of sexual assault during a layover in Hawaii in 2010. The case evolved into a class action in 2016 after additional female employees of the airline came forward. Allegations included WestJet’s failure to ensure a safe work environment with sufficient anti-harassment measures.
Lewis, the lead plaintiff, stated her relief that the case is concluded but expressed disappointment over the symbolic nature of the settlement amount and the absence of an admission of wrongdoing by WestJet. The $4.5 million will be divided among the 3,452 flight attendants involved, with an estimated payout of around $400 per individual after deducting expenses, including legal costs.
Under the settlement terms, WestJet will engage a third-party consultant to conduct a workplace assessment focusing on harassment prevalence, underreporting extent, and improvement of reporting and response systems. Lewis, who faced significant emotional and physical strain supporting former flight attendants during the legal process, described the experience as a “nightmare.”
She emphasized the ongoing systemic issue of sexual assault and harassment within the airline industry and underscored the importance of addressing it. WestJet’s commitment to enhancing operations, training, and fostering a culture of empowerment was reiterated in an email to CBC News.
Despite WestJet denying the allegations, Joshua Coratti, an associate lawyer, viewed the settlement as advantageous for the airline, as it shields them from individual liability claims that could have been more financially burdensome. The settlement also aims to deter similar misconduct and promote more cautious corporate behavior in the future.