WestJet flight attendants could strike Sunday; airline issues lockout notice
4,400 cabin crew members represented by CUPE Local 8125 issued 72-hour strike notice citing unpaid work during boarding, safety checks and ground delays.
Sources · local media reports
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WestJet flight attendants could walk off the job as soon as Sunday, August 2 at 2 a.m. EST, after CUPE Local 8125 issued a 72-hour strike notice following stalled contract negotiations.
The airline responded with its own lockout notice, also set for 2:01 a.m. EST on August 2 if an agreement is not reached. Both WestJet and the union have stated they remain at the bargaining table and are working around the clock to reach a deal.
The union representing 4,400 flight attendants says cabin crew are fighting to be paid for all hours worked, arguing that they currently perform duties such as boarding, safety checks and ground delays without compensation, amounting to as much as 35 unpaid hours per month.
"There's still time to avoid a strike," CUPE Local 8125 President Alia Hussain said in a statement. "We will continue to bargain around the clock until this is resolved. We want a fair contract for our members that recognizes the value of flight attendants' work."
WestJet says it remains committed to reaching an agreement that provides value for cabin crew while remaining sustainable for the company.
Passengers are unlikely to see immediate disruptions, but WestJet has introduced flexible change and cancellation options for travellers flying between July 30 and August 4. Both the airline and union have signed an agreement to establish a wind-down process if a strike or lockout occurs, allowing flight attendants currently operating a flight to complete their scheduled trip.
By the numbers
How many WestJet flight attendants are represented by CUPE Local 8125?
4,400 flight attendants are represented by CUPE Local 8125.
When could the WestJet flight attendant strike begin?
The strike could begin on Sunday, August 2, 2026 at 2 a.m. EST, following a 72-hour strike notice issued by CUPE Local 8125.
How many unpaid hours per month do flight attendants say they work?
Flight attendants at WestJet say they perform unpaid duties such as boarding, safety checks, and ground delays amounting to as much as 35 unpaid hours per month.
