WestJet, the second-largest airline in Canada, is making preparations to gradually cease operations in anticipation of a potential strike by its flight attendants or a lockout. However, the decision to phase out operations does not necessarily indicate an imminent labor dispute, as discussions between the union and the company are still ongoing.
In a communication sent to certain employees and revealed by CBC News, WestJet’s Vice President of Inflight Operations, Robert Antoniuk, emphasized that the agreement reached with the union is not a signal of escalating towards labor action. The agreement outlines the process for winding down operations in case negotiations between CUPE WestJet Component and the company fail.
CUPE union representatives stated that their members have consistently expressed their desire for a fair agreement without resorting to a strike. Federal mediators are actively involved in the negotiations, as confirmed by Federal Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon, who expressed optimism about reaching a mutually agreeable settlement.
According to John Gradek, an aviation management lecturer at McGill University and former Air Canada director, it is standard practice for airlines like WestJet to have contingency plans in place to scale down operations before a labor dispute ensues. This proactive approach ensures that aircraft and crew members are not stranded overseas if operations are halted.
Both the company and the union are required to provide 72 hours’ notice in the event of a strike or lockout. July 30 could serve as the deadline for potential cancellations, affecting thousands of passengers, with Gradek noting that the notice may not be sufficient for distant locations like Rome or Tokyo.
While WestJet has not yet announced flight cancellations related to a possible labor dispute, the airline is offering to waive cancellation or change fees for passengers traveling between July 30 and Aug. 4. The union, representing approximately 4,400 flight attendants, could legally strike by Aug. 2 following a strong strike vote.
Negotiations between WestJet and the union have been ongoing since late 2025, with a key issue being the compensation of flight attendants for all hours worked. The union has raised concerns about unpaid hours, particularly during duties such as boarding and delays on the ground.
Despite differences in opinions, WestJet maintains that flight attendants are fairly compensated under the current pay system. The airline argues that the “credit hour” wage structure accounts for additional responsibilities during flights.
The dispute over “unpaid work” echoes a similar issue that led to a strike at Air Canada in 2025. WestJet previously faced a major labor dispute in 2024 involving unionized airline mechanics.