WestJet cancelled 81 flights on August 1, 2026, as the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE 8125) flight attendants prepare for a 72-hour strike starting Sunday, August 2 at 02:01 EST (07:01 BST). The Calgary-based airline, Canada’s second largest, is providing free cancellations and changes for passengers traveling between Thursday, July 30 and Tuesday, August 4, 2026.
Pay Dispute Centers on Uncompensated Pre-Flight Duties
The strike notice was issued due to pay disputes over ground pay—the compensation for pre-takeoff duties including boarding, safety checks, passenger assistance, and ground delays. WestJet pays flight attendants based on block hours from when the plane leaves the gate until it arrives
at the next gate, a system described by the airline as standard in North America. The union claims flight attendants work unpaid up to 35 hours monthly performing these pre-flight tasks.
Union Representation and Negotiation Timeline
CUPE 8125 represents about 4,400 WestJet flight attendants. Negotiations between WestJet and CUPE 8125 began in September 2025. Despite months of talks, the union states “the parties are still too far apart on some key issues.” CUPE 8125 president Alia Hussain said they “have been clear about what needs to change, and we have worked hard to reach a fair deal” without intending to disrupt air travel.
Passenger Impact and Airline Policies
Passengers with
flights between July 30 and August 4 can cancel or change bookings free of charge. WestJet advises travellers to check flight status before arriving at airports due to cancellations and delays. The airline will offer refunds or re-accommodation for passengers affected by the strike. WestJet Encore flights on Q400 aircraft and codeshare flights are not affected by the strike.
Industry Context and Holiday Weekend Risks
The strike notice comes during one of Canada’s busiest summer holiday weekends, increasing the risk of widespread travel disruption. Labour disruptions in Canadian aviation typically lead to extensive flight cancellations and delays, as seen with the pre-emptive cancellation of 81 WestJet
flights on August 1 to avoid stranding passengers and aircraft.
Flight attendants on the union website highlight the dispute with the statement, “Boarding, safety sweeps, assisting passengers, and ground delays are entirely on our dime.”
