The labor union representing 4,400 flight attendants at WestJet has given a 72-hour strike notice, potentially leading to a strike during the busy summer travel season. The Canadian Union of Public Employees stated that significant differences still exist between the two parties on crucial matters.
Alia Hussain, chair of the union’s WestJet division, emphasized the need for changes and expressed efforts to secure a fair agreement. Hussain mentioned that there is room for avoiding a strike and highlighted ongoing negotiations to resolve the situation.
Responding to the strike notice, WestJet issued a 72-hour lockout notice. The airline, the second-largest in Canada, affirmed that negotiations are actively ongoing to find a resolution. WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech expressed regret over the inconvenience caused to passengers and emphasized the importance of ensuring operational integrity.
Should an agreement not be reached, potential job action could start as early as 12:01 a.m. MT on Sunday. WestJet has allowed passengers with flights scheduled between July 30 and Aug. 4 to make changes without fees. Regional WestJet Encore flights and code-share flights with partners like Delta Air Lines are unaffected by the strike, according to the carrier.
In the event of flight disruptions, affected passengers will receive refunds or alternative accommodations. An agreement has been reached between the two parties to manage grounding planes and facilitating the return of cabin crew in case of a work stoppage.
A key issue for the union is the performance of unpaid ground duties, contrasting with WestJet’s stance that all duties are compensated through a credit hour system. Aviation management expert John Gradek noted the potential financial impact of a strike during peak summer travel.
WestJet, operating over 600 daily flights carrying thousands of passengers, faces significant challenges if a strike occurs.