WestJet cancelled 76 flights on July 31, 2026, as the airline began parking Boeing 737 aircraft in preparation for a possible strike by its flight attendants. The strike deadline is set for just after midnight on August 2, 2026, after the expiration of a 72-hour strike notice issued by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE).
Labour Dispute and Aircraft Grounding
CUPE represents approximately 4,400 WestJet flight attendants and issued a strike notice with the 72-hour timeline ending early on August 2. WestJet responded by issuing a lockout notice within the same timeframe. The airline stated that negotiations had not resulted in an agreement and
proceeded with grounding Boeing 737 planes ahead of the strike. Operations using WestJet Encore’s Q400 aircraft and codeshare flights with partner airlines remain unaffected by these measures.
Passenger Advisories and Rebooking Options
WestJet continues to offer a flexible cancellation policy allowing passengers to make one-time changes or cancellations without fees for travel booked between July 30 and August 4, 2026. Passengers affected by cancellations resulting from strike action will receive refunds or be reaccommodated. If flights are delayed or cancelled due to the strike by three or more hours, WestJet is required by Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR) to provide timely updates, alternate travel
arrangements, and possibly meal vouchers and lodging. Compensation eligibility depends on whether the disruptions are within the airline’s control.
Travel Insurance Considerations
The Travel Health Insurance Association (THIA) advises travellers to verify flight status directly with WestJet and review their travel insurance policies carefully. Since the labour dispute became a known event on July 14, 2026, policies purchased after that date may not cover losses linked to the strike. Travel Guard has classified the WestJet labour dispute as a known event affecting travel insurance coverage.
Official Statements and Passenger Rights
WestJet said, “At this time, negotiations have not resulted in an agreement and as a labour disruption approaches,
WestJet must begin the difficult process of parking 737 aircraft.” The airline added that it remains actively engaged in negotiations to reach a deal promptly.
CUPE 8125 President Alia Hussain commented, “We have made some progress, and the issues remaining need to be resolved at the table. We are hopeful that we can still avoid a strike and remain committed to resolving this there.”
THIA spokesperson Will McAleer stated, “When an airline strike is possible, the most important thing travellers can do is understand their options before they’re disrupted. Start with the airline to confirm whether your flight is affected
and what refunds or rebooking options may be available, then review your travel insurance policy to see whether trip cancellation, interruption, delay or missed connection benefits apply.”
Unchanged Operations and Airport Advisories
WestJet Encore flights operated by Q400 aircraft and codeshare partner flights continue without disruption. Toronto Pearson International Airport, a major hub for WestJet, has encouraged passengers to verify flight status before arriving to avoid unnecessary delays because of cancellations or changes.
