WestJet has agreed to settle a sexual harassment class-action lawsuit from over a decade ago involving more than 3,000 flight attendants for $4.5 million. 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 initiated by former flight attendant Mandalena Lewis, who alleged a pilot sexually assaulted her during a layover in Hawaii in 2010. The case was certified as a class action in 2022 after other women shared similar experiences at the airline. The flight attendants claimed WestJet did not provide a safe workplace with sufficient anti-harassment measures.
Lewis, the lead plaintiff, mentioned feeling a mix of relief and disappointment with the settlement outcome, indicating that while she is glad the case is closed, she believes the compensation amount and WestJet’s lack of admission of wrongdoing fall short of providing full justice.
The $4.5 million settlement will be divided among 3,452 flight attendants after deducting expenses, including legal fees, amounting to approximately $400 per flight attendant involved in the lawsuit. Additionally, Lewis noted a reduction in her agreed honorarium from $20,000 to $10,000.
WestJet stated its commitment to enhancing operational and training procedures to ensure the safety and well-being of its employees. As part of the settlement terms, the airline will engage a third-party consultant to assess workplace harassment prevalence, underreporting extent, and improve reporting and response mechanisms.
Lewis described the legal process as a “nightmare,” emphasizing the ongoing issue of sexual harassment faced by female flight attendants within the airline industry. She highlighted her motivation for pursuing the case to address a systemic problem affecting many individuals.
In response to the settlement, lawyer Joshua Coratti viewed it as a favorable outcome for WestJet, relieving the company of potential individual claims and costly liabilities. He noted that while class-action lawsuits may result in lesser compensation for individual plaintiffs, they serve to deter companies from engaging in misconduct.
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