WestJet passengers are experiencing flight cancellations today across multiple Canadian airports following a strike notice issued by the airline’s flight attendants and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). The union set a 72-hour deadline for negotiations to reach an agreement; otherwise, strikes could begin at 2:01 a.m. EST on August 2, 2026. Early Thursday morning, WestJet responded by issuing a 72-hour lockout notice.
Labour dispute over pay and working conditions
The strike notice comes after WestJet flight attendants and the airline failed to resolve disagreements regarding pay and working conditions. CUPE is demanding compensation for the full duration of cabin crew work, from check-in to clock-out,
including delays on the ground. Currently, WestJet pays attendants based on “credit hours” that vary by flight length and exclude delays such as de-icing or takeoff waits. The union also highlights financial hardship for younger employees working in costly cities like Toronto.
Passenger impact and flexible policies
Passengers should expect significant flight cancellations over the coming 72 hours. WestJet allows customers to cancel or reschedule bookings free of charge for travel between July 30 and August 4, 2026. Flights operated by WestJet Encore on Q400 aircraft and codeshare flights run by partner airlines are exempt from the strike disruptions. Travelers booking directly through WestJet will
receive email notifications, while those who booked via agents should contact their agents for updates. Affected customers will be either refunded or rebooked.
Official statements from WestJet and CUPE
WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech expressed regret over the inconvenience caused by the lockout notice, saying, “The decision to issue a lockout notice, in response to the actions taken by the union, was not one that was made lightly. We sincerely regret the inconvenience and uncertainty this continues to cause for our guests.” He added that the airline values cabin crew contributions and strives to protect its network integrity and minimize risks of stranding guests, crew, and
aircraft.
CUPE local president Alia Hussain said the union seeks to avoid a strike, stating, “We’ve been clear from the start that we want to reach a fair deal without a strike.” WestJet has committed to providing additional flexibility due to the high summer travel volume, with an official airline statement noting, “Given the high volume of summer travel, we are providing guests with additional flexibility so they can make the travel decisions that best meet their needs.”
Context of recent labour actions in Canadian aviation
WestJet holds approximately 30% of Canada’s domestic air travel market. This labour dispute follows a 2025 strike by Air Canada flight attendants,
which lasted four days and grounded about 700 flights daily, impacting roughly 500,000 passengers. The 2025 strike led to calls for changes in flight attendant pay structures in Canada and the United States. During that strike, United Airlines, a U.S. partner of Air Canada, assisted stranded passengers, and the Canadian government intervened to attempt to halt the walkout.
Industry analyst John Gradek estimated that a full WestJet shutdown during this current dispute could affect up to 75,000 passengers. WestJet continues negotiating with CUPE as the deadline approaches but has already taken steps to alert customers and prepare for operational disruptions.
