More than 300 WestJet flights were cancelled on Monday, August 3, 2026, accounting for roughly 62 percent of the airline’s scheduled flights that day. The cancellations followed a strike by WestJet flight attendants, represented by CUPE Local 8125, which began early Sunday morning on August 2.
WestJet and CUPE Local 8125 reached a tentative deal with flight attendants early Monday morning, August 3, 2026. Despite this, as of 11 a.m. ET on Tuesday, August 4, 16 WestJet flights were still cancelled as the airline works to resume normal operations. WestJet is actively repositioning aircraft and crews across its network to
recover from the disruption.
Strike Impact and Passenger Options
The strike involved approximately 4,400 flight attendants represented by CUPE Local 8125, who had voted 99.4 percent in favor of strike authorization before walking off the job. WestJet implemented a policy allowing passengers with flights scheduled between July 30 and August 4, 2026, to make one-time fee-free changes or cancellations due to the strike threat. The airline is responsible for arranging alternate transportation for affected passengers under applicable passenger protection rules.
WestJet operates flights to and from key hubs such as Vancouver International Airport in Richmond, B.C., Calgary, and Toronto Pearson International Airport. The strike shutdown
resulted in cancellations across these routes and others within the airline’s network.
Official Statements on Recovery and Negotiations
WestJet spokesperson Ashley Tymko said, “WestJet is resuming operations and entering the recovery phase following a labour disruption.” Tymko added, “Flights have begun to operate; however, the impacts of the disruption continue as the airline works to restore its network. Guests are encouraged to continue checking the status of their flights before heading to the airport.”
CUPE Local 8125 President Alia Hussain said flight attendants have 30 days to ratify the tentative agreement, which includes pay increases aimed at closing the pay gap with Air Canada flight attendants.
Hussain emphasized the union’s commitment to its members and highlighted the importance of flexible options for passengers affected by the strike.
WestJet stated, “Our teams are working hard to restore service and get our guests on their way to their destinations as quickly as possible and we appreciate everyone’s patience as we get back to normal.” The airline also warned, “As we resume flying and repositioning aircraft and crews, some flights may continue to be disrupted. If you’re travelling in the coming days, only head to the airport if your flight is confirmed.”
Background of Labour Dispute
Contract negotiations between WestJet and CUPE Local
8125 commenced in January 2026 in Calgary. The parties were unable to reach an agreement ahead of the strike deadline, prompting the work stoppage starting August 2. Major sticking points included wage increases and compensation for unpaid ground work performed before and after flights.
The tentative deal reportedly offers pay raises that align flight attendants’ compensation closer to that of Air Canada attendants, who secured partial ground pay increases after their own strike in 2025. WestJet had previously experienced a significant labour dispute in summer 2024 when a strike by unionized mechanics disrupted tens of thousands of travellers.
Passenger Disruption and Recovery Progress
The strike
led to the cancellation of the majority of WestJet’s flights on August 3, affecting thousands of travelers across Canada. Disruptions continued on August 4 with a smaller number of cancellations as the airline works to restore its full schedule. Passengers are advised to verify flight status before travelling.
WestJet has provided fee-free flight changes and cancellations for customers with reservations from July 30 through August 4, 2026, aiming to reduce travel uncertainty related to the strike. The airline remains engaged in discussions to balance improvements for cabin crew with operational sustainability.
