WestJet is experiencing ongoing flight cancellations on August 4 and 5, 2026, as the airline works to ramp up operations following a labour strike by its flight attendants. On August 3, 2026, more than 300 WestJet flights were cancelled, representing approximately 62% of the airline’s scheduled departures, according to Cirium data. By around 11 a.m. Eastern Time on August 4, 16 flights had already been canceled. Despite the strike ending early on August 3 with a tentative deal, WestJet has yet to restore full service.
Flight Attendant Strike and Contract Negotiations
The disruption began when WestJet’s 4,400 flight attendants, represented by CUPE Local 8125, walked off
the job early on August 2, 2026. The strike followed unsuccessful contract negotiations focused on wage increases and claims over unpaid ground duties. Discussions had been ongoing since January 2026 in Calgary but failed to reach an agreement before the strike deadline. The strike concluded in the early hours of August 3 when WestJet and CUPE Local 8125 reached a tentative agreement. Flight attendants now have 30 days to ratify the new contract.
Passenger Impact and Airline Response
The strike caused mass cancellations, significantly affecting Canadian air travel. WestJet allowed customers with flights between July 30 and August 4 to make one-time fee-free changes or
cancellations. Affected passengers will be refunded or rebooked, and under passenger protection rules, WestJet must arrange alternate flights on other carriers if necessary. The airline urges travellers to confirm their flight status prior to travelling to airports due to ongoing cancellations.
Official Statements and Recovery Efforts
WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech apologized for the disruption, stating, “We know this disruption has been frustrating for our guests and WestJetters and we’re sorry for that.” He added, “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.” WestJet spokesperson Ashley Tymko confirmed that while operations have resumed, recovery is ongoing with aircraft and crews being repositioned. Union local president Alia Hussain confirmed the 30-day ratification period for the tentative deal, which includes pay increases but withheld further details pending member briefings.
WestJet remains a major Canadian airline, and the strike represented a significant disruption for its nationwide network. The airline continues recovery efforts as it works to return to full operational capacity in the coming days.
