WestJet cancelled 16 flights as of 11 a.m. Eastern Time on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, according to aviation data from Cirium. This follows a strike by the airline’s flight attendants and a severe impact on WestJet’s schedule the day before.
On Monday, August 3, over 300 WestJet flights were cancelled, representing approximately 62% of the day’s schedule. The cancellations on August 3 occurred despite the union representing 4,400 flight attendants, CUPE Local 8125, and WestJet reaching a tentative agreement early Monday morning to end the strike.
Strike Background and Contract Negotiations
WestJet flight attendants walked off the job early Sunday, August 2, after WestJet and
CUPE Local 8125 failed to reach a new contract before the strike deadline. Contract talks began in January 2026 and centered on wage increases and claims of unpaid ground work by cabin crew. The labour action ground most WestJet flights across Canada.
The tentative agreement reached includes pay increases and has a 30-day ratification window for union members, as stated by CUPE Local 8125 president Alia Hussain. Details of the agreement have not been publicly disclosed pending union member briefings.
WestJet’s Recovery Efforts and Official Statements
WestJet is working to restore its flight operations and reposition aircraft and crews after the strike, a process expected to
take time. WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech apologized for the impact on passengers and employees, saying, “We know this disruption has been frustrating for our guests and WestJetters and we’re sorry for that.” He added that teams are focused on resuming services quickly and thanked customers for their patience.
WestJet spokesperson Ashley Tymko confirmed the airline is in a recovery phase but cautioned that flight disruptions continue. She urged passengers to verify their flight status before going to airports.
Passenger Impact and Travel Arrangements
Passengers with WestJet flights from July 30 through August 4 were offered a one-time free change or cancellation in response to
the strike. The airline has committed to refunding or accommodating affected travellers when delays or cancellations occur.
Under Canadian passenger protection rules, WestJet is required to arrange alternate transportation for ticket holders when flights are cancelled, including on competitor airlines if necessary.
Despite the strike ending early Monday, flight cancellations and delays persisted into Tuesday, August 4, affecting travellers across Canadian routes served by WestJet. Passengers are advised to only proceed to airports with confirmed flight status.
