WestJet cancelled 76 flights on July 30, 2026, in response to a strike notice issued by CUPE Local 8125 representing the airline’s cabin crew. The union issued a 72-hour strike notice the same day WestJet declared a lockout, with a potential work stoppage scheduled to begin at midnight Mountain Time on August 2.
CUPE Local 8125 Strike Authorization and Demands
CUPE Local 8125 represents approximately 4,400 WestJet flight attendants. On July 30, 99.4% of its members voted in favour of strike authorization amid stalled negotiations over compensation for unpaid pre-flight ground work. The union claims WestJet flight attendants perform an average of 35 unpaid hours monthly, encompassing
duties carried out while aircraft are on the ground.
Flight Cancellations Include 20 at Toronto Pearson International Airport
Of the 476 WestJet flights scheduled for July 30, 76 were cancelled due to the labour dispute. Aviation data from Cirium shows that 20 of these cancellations involved flights arriving at or departing from Toronto Pearson International Airport. The cancellations aim to mitigate disruption should the strike or lockout begin August 2, ahead of the busy Civic Holiday long weekend.
WestJet CEO Statement on Lockout and Service Interruptions
WestJet Group CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech expressed regret over the cancellations and the lockout notice issued in response to the union actions. He emphasized the airline’s priority to preserve network integrity
and reduce the chances of guests, crew, and aircraft becoming stranded. Von Hoensbroech stated the company remains engaged in continuous negotiations to reach a sustainable agreement offering meaningful improvements for cabin crew.
Cabin Crew Pay Structure and Union’s Goal to Avoid Disruptions
WestJet cabin crew are compensated through a credit hour pay system, which the airline describes as standard across North America. CUPE Local 8125 maintains its goal is to secure fair payment for all work, including unpaid ground tasks, while seeking to avoid any travel disruptions. The union reiterated it does not desire a strike but is prepared to take action if negotiations do not advance.
Travel Guidance for WestJet Passengers
Passengers scheduled on
WestJet flights between July 30 and August 4, 2026, are advised to verify their flight status prior to traveling. WestJet has introduced Flexible Change/Cancel policies during this period to help travellers adjust plans amid the uncertainty. Early check-in and consideration of alternative travel arrangements are recommended as the August 3 Civic Holiday weekend approaches.
