WestJet faces possible 72-hour strike and lockout as flight-attendant talks stall

CUPE, representing 4,400 WestJet flight attendants, filed a 72-hour strike notice on Thursday, triggering a reciprocal 72-hour lockout notice from the airline. The notice period ends early Sunday, after which a strike could begin if no agreement is reached, though both parties say talks are ongoing. WestJet assures that the notices do not immediately halt flights, but warns that cancellations could start as early as Friday.

Travelers booked on WestJet Encore or partner airlines such as Delta are exempt, and those with tickets for the July 30-Aug 4 window may modify or cancel without penalty. Refunds will be issued either as cash or travel credit depending on fare type, and passengers booked through third parties must coordinate changes with those agents. The dispute centers on compensation for ground duties, with WestJet defending its “credit hour” pay model while the union argues certain tasks remain unpaid. Industry experts note that similar strikes have previously caused widespread cancellations during peak travel periods.