WestJet begins flight cancellations as strike deadline approaches Sunday

WestJet has begun cancelling flights as it braces for a possible strike or lockout by its flight attendants. The airline announced Saturday that dozens of scheduled flights have been scrubbed in an effort to prevent crew and passengers from getting stranded if a work stoppage begins this weekend.

The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), representing 4,400 WestJet flight attendants, issued a 72-hour strike notice that expires just after midnight Sunday in Calgary, where WestJet is headquartered. The airline responded with a matching lockout notice on the same timeline. Though the strike notice does not commit flight attendants to taking action, it leaves passengers uncertain whether their flights will operate through the long weekend.

WestJet says its most recent proposal includes duty premium payments, a cumulative wage increase of about 36 per cent over four years, scheduling improvements, and better provisions for travel and hotels while crew are away from home. CUPE said the proposals don't go far enough, stating the union is seeking a comprehensive contract that reflects the priorities of its members. "We aren't just bargaining a few things, we are seeking a comprehensive contract that reflects the priorities of our members," said CUPE WestJet Component president Alia Hussain.

Federal mediators have been supporting negotiations since May. Federal Minister of Jobs and Families Patty Hajdu said the parties "can and should reach a deal. Canadians are counting on it."

Travellers should check their flight status before leaving for the airport. The source does not specify how many flights have been cancelled or which routes are most affected.