WestJet flight attendants represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) issued a strike notice with a 72-hour deadline, prompting the airline to respond with a 72-hour lockout notice early on August 13, 2026. The industrial action threatens to disrupt more than 600 daily WestJet flights, potentially affecting up to 75,000 passengers over the next three days in Canada.
Labor Dispute Over Unpaid Work Hours
The labor unrest centers on CUPE’s demand that WestJet pay its approximately 4,400 flight attendants from check-in through clock-out, rather than the current system that compensates for credit hours based on actual flight time. CUPE argues that unpaid periods such
as pre-flight preparation and ground delays like de-icing should be compensated. The union is also seeking higher wages to address financial pressures faced by younger employees in costly Canadian cities including Toronto.
CUPE also represents flight attendants at Air Canada, which experienced a significant strike in August 2025 affecting roughly 500,000 passengers and requiring intervention from United Airlines and the Canadian government. The dispute at WestJet reflects ongoing tensions in the compensation models for cabin crew members who are mostly paid only for in-flight time.
Impact on Passengers and Airline Response
WestJet, Canada’s second-largest airline with about 30% domestic market share, advised travelers with bookings from
July 30 to August 4, 2026, that cancellations or rescheduling can be made at no cost. The flexible change policy was announced on July 23 in anticipation of possible labor disruptions. The airline said WestJet Encore flights operated with Q400 aircraft and codeshare flights run by partners are exempt from the strike impact.
Passengers booked directly with WestJet will receive email notifications regarding cancellations or changes, while those who booked through travel agencies must contact their providers. WestJet assured customers affected by delays or cancellations will receive refunds or reaccommodation.
Official Statements and Industry Context
Alexis von Hoensbroech, WestJet Group CEO, stated the lockout decision
“was not one that was made lightly” and expressed regret for the inconvenience posed to passengers. He emphasized the airline’s goal to maintain network integrity and minimize risks to guests, crew, and aircraft.
Alia Hussain, president of the local CUPE union, said the union has sought a fair agreement without resorting to strike action. Aviation expert John Gradek estimated the potential disruption could impact up to 75,000 passengers if mass cancellations occur during the 72-hour window.
WestJet remains engaged in negotiations and communicated it is prepared to make “meaningful improvements that work for cabin crew while balancing the future sustainability
of WestJet.” The ongoing labor dispute follows a history of flight attendant strikes in Canada, notably Air Canada’s in 2025, which resulted in large-scale travel interruptions during peak seasons.
