WestJet has agreed to settle a sexual harassment class-action lawsuit, paying $4.5 million to over 3,000 flight attendants. The settlement terms, finalized in June and approved by a B.C. judge on Monday, have been met with satisfaction by the airline. The lawsuit was initiated by Mandalena Lewis, a former flight attendant who alleged a pilot sexually assaulted her in Hawaii in 2010. Following the lawsuit’s launch in 2016, additional female employees came forward, leading to the case being certified as a class action in 2022.
The flight attendants claimed that WestJet had failed to create a safe work environment with appropriate anti-harassment measures. Despite the settlement, Lewis expressed mixed feelings, stating that while she is relieved the case is closed, she believes the compensation amount is merely symbolic and wishes WestJet had acknowledged wrongdoing.
The $4.5 million settlement will be distributed among the 3,452 flight attendants after accounting for expenses, including legal fees. Each flight attendant involved is expected to receive approximately $400. Lewis also mentioned that the judge reduced her expected honorarium from $20,000 to $10,000 as part of the settlement.
WestJet has stated its commitment to enhancing operations and training to prioritize the safety and well-being of its employees and to promote a culture of empowerment. As part of the settlement terms, the airline will engage a third-party consultant to conduct a workplace assessment focused on identifying and addressing workplace harassment issues effectively.
Lewis, the lead plaintiff, described the legal process as a “nightmare,” noting the physical and emotional toll it took on her while supporting other flight attendants with similar experiences. She emphasized that sexual assault and harassment in the airline industry are deep-rooted issues that persist today, requiring attention and action.
Moreover, the settlement absolves WestJet of liability for individual claims, potentially saving the airline from higher costs. According to legal experts, while the settlement may seem beneficial for WestJet, it serves as a reminder to companies about the consequences of inappropriate behavior and encourages adherence to anti-harassment policies.