WestJet and flight attendants union race against Sunday midnight deadline to avoid strike
The Canadian Union of Public Employees triggered a 72-hour countdown ending Sunday just after midnight. WestJet operates over 600 flights daily and carries more than 70,000 passengers on some days.
Sources · local media reports
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WestJet and its flight attendants union are racing against a deadline that could trigger a shutdown of hundreds of flights during a busy summer travel weekend. The Canadian Union of Public Employees, representing 4,400 flight attendants at Canada's second-largest airline, triggered a 72-hour countdown ending Sunday just after midnight Calgary time.
WestJet issued a matching lockout notice on the same timeframe. If no deal is reached, either side could begin a work stoppage that would devastate travel plans for passengers booked during the long weekend when many Canadians travel.
The airline operates more than 600 flights per day, typically carrying more than 70,000 passengers on peak days. While WestJet has not disclosed how many flights have already been cancelled in anticipation of the strike or lockout, airlines typically wind down schedules ahead of a deadline to avoid planes and crews being stranded.
Ahead of the potential disruption, WestJet is allowing passengers travelling between July 30 and August 4 to make a one-time change or cancellation with no fees. Those given notice of cancellation due to strike action are eligible for refunds. A shutdown would cost the carrier millions of dollars during the height of summer travel.
By the numbers
How many flight attendants does the union represent at WestJet?
The Canadian Union of Public Employees represents 4,400 flight attendants at WestJet.
How many flights does WestJet operate daily?
WestJet operates more than 600 flights per day, typically carrying more than 70,000 passengers on peak days.
When does the 72-hour strike deadline end?
The deadline ends on Sunday, August 2, 2026, just after midnight Calgary time.
Can passengers rebook or cancel for free due to the strike threat?
WestJet is allowing passengers travelling between July 30 and August 4, 2026 to make a one-time change or cancellation with no fees, and those given notice of cancellation due to strike action are eligible for refunds.
