WestJet, the mechanics' union, has agreed to a tentative deal to avoid a strike

A potential strike between WestJet and its mechanics union appears to have been averted.

The Calgary-based airline said in a statement Sunday night that a preliminary agreement had been reached between it and the Fraternal Association of Aircraft Mechanics.

If the contract is ratified by both parties, it will mark the first binding collective bargaining agreement between WestJet and AMFA.

WestJet issued a 72-hour lockout notice to the union on Saturday, saying it was in response to AMFA announcing a strike vote.

The union, which represents about 670 aircraft maintenance engineers and skilled trades groups, cited wages, outsourcing, scheduling and layoff protections during the negotiations.

Terms of the deal were not released Sunday night.