WestJet flight attendants initiated a strike early morning on August 3, 2026, causing roughly 600 flight cancellations nationwide. About 4,400 attendants belonging to CUPE Local 8125 stopped work, grounding numerous flights across Canada. At Vancouver International Airport (YVR), 88 WestJet flights were cancelled, accounting for about 10% of the airport’s daily scheduled operations.
Labor Negotiations and WestJet’s Offer
The strike followed failed negotiations between WestJet and CUPE Local 8125. WestJet presented a proposal including a 13% hourly wage increase starting October 1, 2026, with annual raises of 2.5% from 2027 through 2029 and retroactive pay from January 1, 2026. The offer also included a 12%
premium for ground duties, a $300 annual healthcare spending account, enhanced meal allowances, a 17-week maternity leave top-up, and a fifth week of vacation after 25 years. Additional terms covered shift flexibilities and compensation for hotel access delays. The union rejected the offer and commenced the strike.
Passenger Impact and Travel Disruptions
The strike disrupted travel for about 250,000 passengers holding WestJet bookings over the August long weekend. WestJet suspended mainline flight bookings through at least August 5, 2026, potentially extending the suspension if labor talks fail. WestJet Encore flights operating Q400 turboprops remained unaffected and continued normal operations. Passengers were allowed to change or
cancel certain flights booked from July 30 to August 4 without fees before the strike began.
Some passengers reported extreme difficulties contacting customer service. One passenger, Ashton Phenix, said total call hold times reached 19 hours while trying to rebook or claim refunds. Others, such as David Miller stranded in Cancun with family, experienced prolonged waits exceeding nine hours to reach support. Some travelers rebooked on other airlines and sought reimbursement from WestJet.
Statements from Officials and Union
WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech expressed disappointment over the strike’s impact and emphasized the airline’s readiness to continue negotiating. He highlighted that the company’s offer set a
new standard for Canadian cabin crew compensation but was declined by the union. CUPE Local 8125 President Alia Hussain stated they struck because they believe they deserve better and oppose government intervention in the dispute.
Federal Jobs Minister Patti Hajdu called the strike a “disappointing development” and urged both parties to keep negotiating toward resolution.
Passenger Rights and Compensation
Under the Canadian Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), strikes are considered events outside airline control. Consequently, passengers affected by the strike are not eligible for cash compensation ranging from CAD $400 to $1,000. However, WestJet must provide free rebooking on the next available flight within
48 hours, including flights operated by other carriers if necessary. Passengers may also request a full refund within 30 days.
Travelers are advised not to cancel or change flights proactively before WestJet officially announces cancellations, as doing so forfeits their protection under APPR. Passengers with international segments may claim out-of-pocket expenses such as hotels, meals, and lost wages under the Montreal Convention, covering up to approximately CAD $12,000 per person. This includes protection on routes to Europe, the United States, and other destinations.
Despite long wait times causing frustration, passengers are legally entitled to rebooking or refunds. Advocacy groups recommend
against seeking immediate refunds if travel is still planned, as replacement fares on other airlines can rise quickly.
