WestJet has announced fee-free flight changes and cancellations for passengers booked on flights scheduled between July 30 and August 4, 2026, amid a looming strike authorization by the airline’s flight attendants. The 4,400 attendants, members of CUPE Local 8125, voted 99.4% in favor of strike authorization, with legal strike rights beginning August 2 if no agreement is reached.
CUPE Local 8125 represents the cabin crew involved in negotiations over unresolved issues including salaries, unpaid working hours, and working conditions. The attendants have been working without a collective agreement since the end of 2025, escalating tensions ahead of one of Canada’s
busiest travel periods.
The potential strike threatens disruption to WestJet’s mainline operations that run about 560 daily flights. However, flights operated by WestJet Encore, including Q400 aircraft, and those operated by codeshare partners are not expected to be affected by any labour action.
Passengers holding reservations for WestJet flights between July 30 and August 4 may make a one-time change or cancel their flights without paying fees. Customers booked through vacation providers such as WestJet Vacations, Sunwing Vacations, or Vacances WestJet Québec will be contacted directly by those companies regarding flexible options.
WestJet confirmed ongoing negotiations with the union and
stated the airline remains committed to making meaningful improvements for cabin crew while balancing its future sustainability. CUPE Local 8125 President Alia Hussain called on WestJet to resume bargaining to avoid travel disruptions, saying, “WestJet should do the right thing and prevent travel disruptions for their passengers.” Both sides have expressed a preference for a negotiated settlement over a strike-related service interruption.
The dispute reflects broader aviation industry challenges in balancing cost control with fair compensation for labour. WestJet’s fee-free change policy is a proactive step to mitigate passenger impact during the potential labour disruption period.
