WestJet cancelled 76 flights on July 30, 2026, following the issuance of a strike notice by CUPE Local 8125 representing the airline’s flight attendants, and a lockout notice declared by WestJet. The potential work stoppage could begin at midnight Mountain Time on August 2, 2026, impacting airline operations across Canada.
Contract Dispute Over Unpaid Ground Work Leads to Strike Authorization
CUPE Local 8125, which represents approximately 4,400 WestJet cabin crew members, issued a strike notice after contract negotiations stalled over unpaid ground work. Flight attendants assert they perform an average of 35 unpaid hours monthly involving pre-flight ground tasks. The union held a strike authorization vote, with 99.4% of its
members approving the measure. WestJet maintains its credit hour pay system aligns with the standard practice for North American cabin crew, which covers compensation for work performed.
Official Statements on Lockout and Negotiations
WestJet Group CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech expressed regret for issuing the lockout notice, emphasizing it was a serious decision intended to protect network integrity and minimize the risk of guests, crew, and aircraft being stranded. He stated the airline remains committed to ongoing negotiations aimed at achieving a sustainable agreement providing value and meaningful improvements for cabin crew.
CUPE Local 8125 emphasized its objective to reach a fair contract without disrupting passengers or
the traveling public. The union clarified the strike notice does not indicate a desire to halt work but rather seeks to advance negotiations.
Passenger Impact and Flexible Booking Policies
Passengers are advised to carefully check the status of their WestJet flights before traveling due to cancellations and the looming possibility of a strike or lockout starting August 2. The airline is offering Flexible Change/Cancel policies for bookings with travel dates between July 30 and August 4, 2026, to accommodate those seeking to alter travel plans amid the labor dispute.
