WestJet canceled 309 flights nationwide by 11 p.m. MT on Saturday, August 1, 2026, ahead of a flight attendant strike that started at 12:01 a.m. MT (2:01 a.m. ET) on Sunday, August 2. The strike involves approximately 4,400 flight attendants represented by CUPE Local 8125.
Labour Negotiations Collapse Ahead of Strike
The cancellations followed failed labour negotiations between WestJet and CUPE Local 8125. The union issued a 72-hour strike notice after both parties were unable to agree on a tentative deal. The union requested the federal government not intervene in the dispute, urging respect for the collective bargaining process.
WestJet Executes Coordinated Flight Cancellations
WestJet initiated an organized reduction of its
flight network starting Friday, July 31, 2026, stating the cancellations aimed to maintain network integrity and reduce the risk of stranding guests and aircraft. Flight cancellations were progressively announced, totaling 80 on Friday evening, 32 by 9 a.m. Saturday, 86 by 11 a.m., 78 in the afternoon, and 33 late Saturday evening.
Significant Passenger Impact and Affected Routes
Key domestic routes experiencing cancellations include Calgary to Vancouver with seven flights canceled, as well as Calgary-Toronto, Vancouver-Calgary, Edmonton-Calgary, Calgary-Victoria, and Toronto-Calgary, each with three cancellations. Two cancellations affected routes such as Cancun-Toronto, Toronto-Vancouver, Toronto-Edmonton, and Calgary-Kelowna. Approximately 250,000 passengers nationwide were impacted by the cancellations.
Passenger Stranding and Customer Service Challenges
Passengers reported
extended queues at Toronto Pearson Terminal 3 for rebooking assistance and difficulties securing hotel accommodations after cancellations. Among those stranded were Jenni and Jerry Kezema, who missed anniversary travel plans to Ireland. WestJet customer service lines faced long wait times amid high call volumes.
Government Mediation and Union Appeals
Minister Patty Hajdu confirmed ongoing mediation efforts since May, stating both parties were working hard to renew the collective agreement. The Canadian federal government holds authority under Section 107 of the Canada Labour Code to intervene to maintain industrial peace, an action previously taken during an Air Canada flight attendant strike. CUPE opposed potential government intervention.
WestJet’s Industry-Leading Offer to Flight Attendants
WestJet characterized its latest proposal as a transformative and industry-leading agreement, including a double-digit pay increase and scheduling improvements. The offer incorporated an hourly pay model for all flight-related work and aimed to set a new standard in compensation and quality of life for cabin crew. WestJet remains committed to reaching a negotiated agreement, describing a deal as within reach.
Impact on WestJet Encore and Sunwing Vacations Flights
WestJet Encore flights operated on Q400 aircraft and WestJet codeshare flights run by partners were not affected by the strike or cancellations. Sunwing Vacations, part of the WestJet Group, reported limited disruption and advised passengers with affected flights to monitor
email notifications for updates.
