WestJet has reached a $4.5 million settlement to resolve a sexual harassment class-action lawsuit that dates back a decade and involves over 3,000 flight attendants, as confirmed by the lead plaintiff and her legal representative. The terms of the settlement, which were finalized in June, were approved by a B.C. judge on Monday. Expressing satisfaction with the resolution, WestJet stated that it is pleased to have concluded the settlement.
The lawsuit was initiated by former flight attendant Mandalena Lewis, who alleged a pilot sexually assaulted her during a layover in Hawaii in 2010. Subsequently, in 2016, additional female employees from the airline came forward, leading to the case being certified as a class action by the B.C. Court of Appeal in 2022. The flight attendants contended that WestJet had failed to establish a safe working environment with adequate anti-harassment measures.
Lewis expressed relief that the case is now closed but voiced disappointment regarding what she perceives as incomplete justice for the plaintiffs. She highlighted her dissatisfaction with the symbolic financial settlement and WestJet’s lack of admission of wrongdoing as part of the agreement. Lewis emphasized the challenging nature of the legal process, mentioning that supporting numerous former flight attendants in addressing sexual harassment issues had taken a toll on her physically and emotionally.
Following deductions for expenses, including legal fees, the $4.5 million settlement will be distributed among the 3,452 flight attendants involved, averaging approximately $400 per individual. Lewis also mentioned that the judge reduced the honorarium she was set to receive under the settlement from $20,000 to $10,000. WestJet, in response, conveyed its commitment to enhancing operational and training procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of its employees and to promote a culture of empowerment.
As part of the settlement terms, WestJet will engage a third-party consultant to conduct a workplace assessment aimed at gauging the prevalence of harassment, addressing underreporting issues, and enhancing reporting and response mechanisms. Lewis underscored the enduring presence of sexual assault and harassment concerns for female flight attendants within the airline industry, stating that addressing these issues was a crucial motivation behind her involvement in the legal proceedings.