WestJet has agreed to pay $4.5 million to settle a sexual harassment class-action lawsuit filed ten years ago, involving over 3,000 flight attendants, as confirmed by the lead plaintiff and her legal representative. The settlement terms, which were finalized in June, were approved by a B.C. judge on Monday. WestJet expressed satisfaction with reaching a settlement.
The lawsuit stemmed from former flight attendant Mandalena Lewis’s claim of being sexually assaulted by a pilot during a layover in Hawaii in 2010. Following the initiation of the lawsuit in 2016, other female airline employees joined, leading to the case being certified as a class action by the B.C. Court of Appeal in 2022. The flight attendants alleged that WestJet did not provide a safe working environment with adequate anti-harassment measures.
Despite feeling relieved that the case has concluded, Lewis expressed disappointment in not achieving what she considers “full justice,” citing the nominal dollar amount and WestJet’s lack of admission of wrongdoing in the agreement. The $4.5 million settlement will be divided among 3,452 flight attendants after deductions for expenses, including legal fees, amounting to approximately $400 per attendant involved in the lawsuit. Additionally, the judge reduced Lewis’s agreed-upon honorarium from $20,000 to $10,000.
WestJet stated its commitment to enhancing operations and training for the safety and well-being of its employees. As part of the settlement, the airline will engage a third-party consultant to conduct a workplace assessment to evaluate harassment prevalence, underreporting extent, and enhance reporting and response systems.
Lewis described the legal process as a “nightmare,” highlighting the emotional and physical toll of supporting numerous former colleagues with similar harassment experiences. She emphasized the ongoing issue of sexual assault and harassment faced by female flight attendants within the airline industry.
Legal expert Joshua Coratti viewed the settlement favorably for WestJet, noting that it shields the company from individual liability claims that could have been more costly. He suggested that such settlements serve as a deterrent for companies engaging in misconduct.
The settlement signifies a significant step in addressing workplace harassment issues within the airline industry, with hopes of fostering a safer and more respectful work environment for all employees.
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