WestJet flight cancellations mount as strike deadline nears Sunday midnight
The airline scrapped 81 flights Saturday as 4,400 flight attendants prepare for possible work stoppage. Travellers can change bookings without fees through Aug. 4.
Sources · local media reports
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WestJet has cancelled 81 flights scheduled for Saturday as a 72-hour strike notice issued by flight attendants' union CUPE runs out Sunday at 2:01 a.m. ET — the earliest a work stoppage could begin if no deal is reached.
The airline and union say negotiations are ongoing. WestJet issued a matching 72-hour lockout notice Thursday. Both sides may reach a tentative agreement before the deadline, or continue talking if they're close to a deal.
Passengers booked on WestJet flights between July 30 and Aug. 4 can make one free change or cancellation. The airline will refund or re-accommodate affected passengers. Those who booked through travel agents should contact them directly. WestJet Encore regional service and code-share flights with partners like Delta are unaffected by any labour action.
Under passenger protection rules, WestJet must arrange alternate transportation on a rival carrier's flight if necessary. On July 15, flight attendants voted 99 per cent in favour of a strike mandate, with turnout above 97 per cent.
If a strike does begin, how long could it last?
What percentage of WestJet's typical weekend schedule does 81 flights represent?
We'll update this story as answers emerge.
By the numbers
How many WestJet flights were cancelled on Saturday, August 1?
WestJet cancelled 81 flights scheduled for Saturday, August 1, as a 72-hour strike notice issued by flight attendants' union CUPE approached its deadline.
When could a WestJet strike begin if no deal is reached?
A work stoppage could begin as early as Sunday, August 2, at 2:01 a.m. ET if negotiations between WestJet and CUPE do not result in an agreement.
Through what date can WestJet passengers change their bookings for free?
Passengers booked on WestJet flights between July 30 and August 4 can make one free change or cancellation without fees.
