WestJet and the union reached a second interim agreement

WestJet executives and the union representing mechanics announced they had reached a second tentative agreement, ending a strike that had canceled hundreds of flights.

A statement published late on Sunday on the union's website said: "AMFA was able to reach a second interim agreement, which has made significant improvements both to the current employment conditions and to the conditions provided in the first interim agreement. We ask you to immediately return to work and provide your services."

The second contract, if approved, includes an immediate 15.5 percent wage increase, the statement said.

The news about this contract was published on the WestJet website late Sunday. AMFA has agreed to call off the strike from 11:30 p.m. and resume work, the statement said.

Since the strike began, 130 planes have been grounded at 13 airports across Canada and hundreds of flights have been canceled since Thursday, according to WestJet officials. It is estimated that 110 thousand passengers have been affected by this strike.

A WestJet statement said: "Given that the strike has had a significant impact on WestJet's network over the past few days, it will take time to return to normal flights and further disruptions may occur until aircraft and crew are restored to their positions. It will happen next week."

About 680 aircraft maintenance workers walked off the job Friday evening despite orders from the federal labor minister.

The strike came after union members overwhelmingly voted to reject WestJet's interim contract in mid-June after two weeks of tense negotiations between the two sides.

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