Canada's second-largest airline, WestJet, has been hit by a major labour strike after negotiations between the airline and its flight attendants' union failed to produce a last-minute agreement. The industrial action has forced the cancellation of hundreds of flights, disrupting travel plans for approximately 250,000 passengers during one of Canada's busiest holiday weekends.
The strike highlights growing tensions across North America's aviation industry over how cabin crew are compensated for their work.
Why Are WestJet Flight Attendants on Strike?
The strike began after negotiations between WestJet and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) broke down.
The union, which represents around 4,400 flight attendants, is demanding changes to the airline's pay structure.
A key issue is compensation for time spent working before takeoff and after landing. Flight attendants argue they should be paid from the moment they report for duty until they finish their shift, rather than primarily for the time when the aircraft is in motion.
Union leaders say the current system leaves many working hours unpaid despite performing safety checks, boarding passengers and other essential duties.
Hundreds of Flights Cancelled
According to aviation analytics firm Cirium, WestJet had cancelled 615 flights by Sunday morning.
The airline estimates that nearly 250,000 travellers have already been affected, with further disruptions expected if the strike continues.
WestJet operates approximately 30% of Canada's domestic aviation market and serves destinations across:
- Canada
- United States
- Caribbean
- Central America
- Europe
The cancellations have significantly impacted travel during the long holiday weekend.
Last-Minute Talks Failed
The union issued a 72-hour strike notice on Thursday, warning that industrial action would begin if negotiations failed.
In response, WestJet served a lockout notice.
Despite continuing discussions until the final hours before the deadline, both sides failed to reach an agreement.
Union representative Alia Hussain said employees remain willing to return to negotiations, stating that flight attendants deserve fair compensation for all hours worked.
What WestJet Offered
WestJet released details of what it described as its final proposal, which included:
- A 13% wage increase in the first year.
- Annual 2.5% salary increases through 2029.
- Additional compensation for all hours worked, which the airline said would effectively add another 12% increase to employee pay.
The union has not formally responded to the airline's public proposal.
Government Urges Both Sides to Reach Agreement
Canada's Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu expressed disappointment over the strike and urged both parties to continue negotiations.
She said strikes and lockouts should not prevent meaningful discussions and encouraged both sides to return to the bargaining table.
The union also expressed hope that the Canadian government would avoid intervening directly in the labour dispute.
What Passengers Should Do
WestJet has said affected passengers will be offered:
- Flight rebooking where available.
- Refunds for cancelled services.
- Alternative travel arrangements when possible.
However, many travellers have reported long wait times and difficulty reaching customer support as the airline works to manage widespread disruptions.
Key Highlights
- WestJet flight attendants began a strike after contract negotiations collapsed.
- Around 250,000 passengers have been affected.
- More than 615 flights have already been cancelled.
- The dispute centres on compensation for unpaid working hours.
- WestJet has offered wage increases and additional pay, but no agreement has been reached.
- The Canadian government has urged both sides to resume negotiations.
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