Union demands apology from WestJet after Poilievre speaks on flight’s PA system

OTTAWA — The union representing WestJet cabin crew is demanding an apology from the airline after Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre spoke on the public address system of a recent flight.

OTTAWA — The union representing WestJet cabin crew is demanding an apology from the airline after Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre spoke on the public address system of a recent flight.

A video circulating online shows Poilievre making short remarks on a Sunday night flight that was leaving Quebec City for Calgary after the Conservative Party of Canada’s convention. 

Poilievre’s campaign-style speech lasts for about 45 seconds and is met with laughter and cheers from passengers. 

CUPE Alberta’s local president Alia Hussain says it’s very disappointing that the airline allowed a politician to use the PA system. 

In a statement posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, Hussain says the cabin crew had no input in the decision to allow Poilievre to speak and that the airline’s rules say only crew members can use the system.

Hussain is demanding an apology from WestJet for blaming crew members and says both the airline and Poilievre showed poor judgment.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 13, 2023. 

The Canadian Press