Airline and Union Return to Negotiations While Hundreds of Flights Are Cancelled Across Canada
Summary
WestJet flight attendants have officially gone on strike after months of contract negotiations failed to produce a last-minute agreement. Despite the walkout, both WestJet and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) remain at the bargaining table in hopes of reaching a deal that could end the labour dispute. The strike has already led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights during one of Canada’s busiest travel weekends, disrupting the plans of thousands of passengers.
The dispute centres on wages, compensation for unpaid ground duties, and working conditions. While picket lines have formed at major airports across the country, both sides say they remain committed to negotiations and are continuing discussions with the assistance of federal mediators.
Flight Attendants Begin Strike
The strike began after a final round of negotiations failed to produce a tentative agreement before the deadline. Approximately 4,400 WestJet flight attendants, represented by CUPE, joined picket lines at airports across Canada, demanding improved pay and recognition for work performed before takeoff and after landing.
Union leaders said flight attendants have spent months trying to negotiate a fair contract and believe the strike is necessary to secure better compensation and working conditions.
Negotiations Continue Despite Walkout
Although the strike is underway, both WestJet and the union have confirmed they remain engaged in bargaining. Federal mediators continue facilitating discussions as both sides work toward a possible settlement.
WestJet said it remains hopeful that an agreement can still be reached and emphasized that negotiations are continuing even while strike action is taking place. Union representatives also expressed willingness to return to work immediately if a satisfactory deal is achieved.
Hundreds of Flights Cancelled
The labour dispute has significantly disrupted WestJet’s operations. The airline has cancelled more than 300 flights, affecting tens of thousands of travellers across its domestic and international network.
Passengers whose flights have been cancelled are being offered refunds or alternative travel arrangements where available. WestJet has advised customers to check their flight status before travelling to the airport.
Pay Dispute Remains Central Issue
The main point of disagreement remains compensation for work completed outside actual flying time. The union argues that flight attendants should be paid from check-in until the completion of all duties rather than primarily for time spent in the air.
WestJet says it has offered a new compensation model that includes payment for all hours worked along with a double-digit wage increase during the first year of the agreement. However, the union maintains that the proposal does not adequately address its concerns.
Government Monitoring Situation
Canada’s Labour Minister has expressed disappointment that negotiations did not produce an agreement before the strike began but encouraged both sides to continue bargaining in good faith.
Officials have indicated they are closely monitoring developments while encouraging the airline and the union to reach a negotiated settlement as quickly as possible to minimize further disruption for travellers.
Conclusion
The WestJet flight attendants’ strike has entered a new phase with workers on the picket lines, but negotiations between the airline and the union continue. As hundreds of flights remain cancelled and thousands of passengers face travel disruptions, both parties say they are committed to finding a resolution. The outcome of the ongoing bargaining will determine how long the strike continues and when normal flight operations can fully resume.