WestJet flight attendants initiated a 72-hour strike early Sunday, 2 August 2026, resulting in cancellation of approximately 600 flights across Canadian routes, including Saskatoon International Airport and Regina. Flights to Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver, and Minneapolis-St. Paul from Saskatoon were cancelled, severely disrupting one of Canada’s busiest summer travel weekends.
Strike Causes and Union Demands
The strike follows failed contract negotiations between WestJet and CUPE Local 8125, which represents 4,400 flight attendants. The core dispute is over pay for pre-takeoff duties termed ‘ground pay.’ Flight attendants report working up to 35 unpaid hours per month for tasks including boarding assistance, safety sweeps, passenger support, and managing
ground delays. They have been without a valid collective agreement for 213 days as of the strike’s start.
Passenger Impact and Airline Policies
WestJet cancelled about 600 flights by early Sunday morning and advised passengers to check flight statuses before traveling. WestJet Encore flights on Q400 aircraft and codeshare flights are not affected by the strike. Passengers impacted will be refunded or rebooked under Canadian airline passenger laws, which include rights to rebooking on the next reasonable flight with WestJet or other carriers and free return to the point of origin if flights are cancelled.
Statements from WestJet, Union, and Government
A WestJet spokesperson said the airline “remains at the table
and committed to achieving a negotiated tentative agreement that recognises the important contributions and professionalism of WestJet’s Cabin Crew.” Alia Hussain, president of CUPE Local 8125, stated, “We have been clear about what needs to change, and we have worked hard to reach a fair deal.” Canada’s jobs minister, Patti Hajdu, called the strike a “disappointing development” and urged continued negotiations without announcing government intervention.
Pay Model Context and Negotiations Status
WestJet pays flight attendants by block hours, starting when the aircraft leaves the gate and ending at arrival at the next gate. The airline states the pay model is standard across North America and compensates
pre-takeoff work within block hours. Cabin crew wages range from C$28 to C$58 per hour. Negotiations have been ongoing since September 2025 without resolution, resulting in the labour disruption.
