WestJet has cancelled 81 flights scheduled for Saturday, August 1, 2026, as the airline braces for a possible flight attendant strike on Sunday.
The precautionary measure aims to prevent crew members and passengers from being stranded, the Canadian carrier said.
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WestJet is negotiating a contract with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 8125, which represents 4,400 flight attendants.
Both sides issued 72-hour notices on Friday, setting the stage for a potential work stoppage.
Contract Dispute
In internal emails, WestJet said its offer included a cumulative 36 percent pay raise over four years, along with improvements to scheduling and travel benefits.
"The offer would have represented a significant step forward not only for WestJet cabin crew, but for the Canadian airline industry as a whole," the airline stated.
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The proposal also addressed union requests for duty premium payments covering time worked before and after flights.
Union leadership, however, argues the current proposal does not adequately resolve all priority contract issues.
"We aren’t just bargaining a few things, we are seeking a comprehensive contract that reflects the priorities of our members," said Alia Hussain, president of CUPE WestJet Component.
Hussain acknowledged some progress in negotiations but stressed that key items remain unsettled before the weekend deadline.
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"We are hopeful that we can still avoid a strike and remain committed to resolving this there," she added.
