WestJet, the second-largest airline in Canada, is making preparations to gradually reduce its operations in anticipation of a potential strike or lockout by its flight attendants. However, the arrangement to scale back operations does not signify an imminent labor conflict as discussions between the union and the company are ongoing.
According to a communication from WestJet’s vice-president of inflight operations, Robert Antoniuk, the agreement with the union is not a signal of escalating towards labor action but rather a plan to manage the shutdown of operations if negotiations fail. The union, represented by CUPE, has emphasized their desire for a fair deal without resorting to a strike.
Federal mediators are actively engaged in the negotiations, as confirmed by Federal Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon, who expressed optimism about reaching a mutually acceptable agreement.
John Gradek, a former Air Canada director and current faculty lecturer at McGill University, highlighted the necessity for airlines like WestJet to have contingency plans in place to avoid disruptions in case of a labor dispute. He emphasized the importance of pre-positioning to ensure that aircraft and crew members are not stranded in overseas locations in the event of a shutdown.
While no flight cancellations have been announced by WestJet in connection with the potential labor dispute, the airline has offered flexibility to passengers traveling between July 30 and Aug. 4. Nearly 97% of eligible flight attendants have voted in favor of a strike, highlighting issues such as unpaid work as a key point of contention.
The current pay system for WestJet’s flight attendants has been a sticking point, with the union arguing that hours spent on duties like boarding and delays are not adequately compensated. WestJet maintains that flight attendants are paid for all hours worked under the existing contract.
The issue of unpaid work has been a longstanding concern for CUPE, which previously faced a similar dispute with Air Canada in 2025. WestJet’s last major labor dispute occurred in 2024 when unionized mechanics went on strike over the Canada Day weekend, impacting numerous travelers.
As negotiations continue, both WestJet and the union are focused on finding a resolution to avoid any disruptions to airline operations.