WestJet Strike: What to Do if Your Flight Is Canceled
WestJet flight attendants went on strike, grounding hundreds of flights through Sunday and disrupting travel for thousands.
Over 300 WestJet flights were canceled on Sunday due to a strike by flight attendants, affecting a large portion of the airline's network during peak summer travel. The strike follows failed contract negotiations between WestJet and the union representing about 4,400 cabin crew members. WestJet canceled flights in anticipation of the strike to maintain network integrity and minimize the risk of stranded passengers.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing the flight attendants, is seeking compensation for work not directly related to flight operations, such as preparing for flights, boarding passengers, and post-landing duties. WestJet offered an agreement with pay increases and compensation for pre-flight and post-flight duties, but the union rejected it.
Most affected routes include domestic and international services operated by WestJet's Boeing 737 fleet, with potential disruptions to flights connecting to major U.S. destinations and other cities. WestJet has stated that most affected customers will receive refunds or rebooking options. The airline and union remain open to further discussions, and Canada's labor minister expressed hope for a resolution. The strike's impact on travelers will depend on how quickly the airline can restore operations.
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