WestJet flight attendants on strike as company suspends most bookings

A strike by WestJet flight attendants has commenced after contract negotiations collapsed, leading to widespread disruption for travelers. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) local 8125, representing approximately 4,400 flight attendants, confirmed its members walked off the job after failing to reach a new collective agreement.

Alia Hussain, President of CUPE 8125, expressed disappointment, stating, "We tried until the very last minute to get a fair deal that recognizes the value of the work cabin crews do. WestJet’s offer did not go far enough." The union had issued a strike notice last week, prompting WestJet to issue a lockout notice, which is also now in effect.

In response to the job action, WestJet began suspending all air travel bookings on Saturday, with the suspension expected to last until August 5, unless a deal is reached sooner. The airline is winding down its jet flights, though its regional subsidiary, Encore, continues to operate. Passengers with bookings between July 30 and August 4 can make a one-time change or cancellation without additional cost.

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We tried until the very last minute to get a fair deal that recognizes the value of the work cabin crews do. WestJet’s offer did not go far enough.

The core of the dispute revolves around compensation for work performed on the ground. Flight attendants argue they should be paid for duties such as boarding passengers, conducting safety checks, and managing flight delays, tasks they perform even when the aircraft is not in the air. Labour expert Barry Eidlin noted that flight attendants are generally compensated only for flight time, despite the increasing frequency of delays.

Federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu called the development "disappointing" and urged both parties to return to the bargaining table to reach an agreement. The federal government is actively encouraging both sides to find a resolution.

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A strike or lockout does not mean an agreement can’t be reached, the expectation is that parties can and should come to an agreement at the bargaining table.