WestJet cancelled 76 flights on July 30, 2026, in anticipation of a flight attendant strike. CUPE Local 8125, representing approximately 4,400 WestJet cabin personnel, issued a 72-hour strike notice. In response, WestJet issued a lockout notice. A work stoppage could start as early as midnight Mountain Time on Sunday, August 2, 2026.
Labour Dispute Over Unpaid Ground Work
The strike notice relates to disputes over unpaid ground work hours for flight attendants. CUPE claims its members work on average 35 unpaid hours per month, including pre-flight and other ground duties. WestJet cabin crew are paid via a credit hour system, described as the standard for cabin
staff across North America. The union’s strike authorization vote saw 99.4% of CUPE Local 8125 members supporting the action.
Passenger Impact and Official Statements
Passengers with travel bookings from July 30 to August 4 can make changes or cancellations under WestJet’s Flexible Change/Cancel policies. The airline advises checking flight status before going to the airport. Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group chief executive officer, stated, “The decision to issue a lockout notice, in response to the actions taken by the union, was not one that was made lightly. We sincerely regret the inconvenience and uncertainty this continues to cause for our guests.” CUPE Local 8125 said,
“Our goal is to reach a fair agreement without disrupting passengers or the travelling public.”
Timing and Ongoing Negotiations
The potential labour disruption coincides with the August 3 Civic Holiday long weekend across Canada. WestJet cancelled 76 flights on July 30 proactively to reduce travel impacts across its Canadian network. Both WestJet and CUPE Local 8125 remain at the bargaining table attempting to reach a resolution. The airline seeks to maintain network integrity and minimize risk of stranding passengers and crew.
