WestJet Flight Attendants Issue 72-Hour Strike Notice as Airline Declares Lockout

Close to 4,400 WestJet flight attendants represented by CUPE Local 8125 could walk off the job as early as Aug. 2 at 12 a.m. mountain time after the union issued a 72-hour strike notice to the airline, prompting WestJet to respond with a lockout notice.

WestJet and CUPE Local 8125 Exchange Formal Notices

Both WestJet and CUPE Local 8125 issued statements confirming the labor developments as a potential strike looms over the long weekend. According to the union, flight attendants have been clear about what they are fighting for, but both parties remain too far apart on key issues. WestJet stated that it responded to the 72-hour strike notification by issuing a lockout notice. According to Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of the WestJet Group, the decision to issue a lockout notice was a response to union actions and was not made lightly. The airline stated that its commitment remains at the bargaining table to reach an agreement providing value for cabin crew while remaining sustainable for the company.

Core Negotiation Issues and Unpaid Work

A core issue in negotiations is the credit hour system under which flight attendants are paid, which the union characterizes as unpaid work. According to union president Alia Hussain, representatives have been clear about what needs to change and have worked hard to reach a fair deal, emphasizing that time remains to avoid a strike. The union maintains that issuing a strike notice does not mean workers want to strike, stating through CUPE 8125 that the goal is to reach a fair agreement without disrupting passengers or the travelling public.

Flight Operations and Passenger Impact

WestJet reported that it does not anticipate any immediate impact to air travel, noting that the notices do not immediately mean a labor disruption will occur. According to a WestJet spokesperson, the airline has not cancelled any flights and has not started a wind-down process due to the strike notice. If a strike occurs, WestJet stated it will take all necessary actions to manage potential impacts. The airline confirmed it is maintaining its flexible cancellation policy launched the previous week, allowing a one-time change or cancellation with no fee for bookings between July 30, 2026, and Aug. 4, 2026. Impacted guests will be refunded or reaccommodated as applicable, with direct bookers receiving email notifications and third-party bookers advised to contact their original booking agencies.

Frequently Asked Questions

When could a WestJet flight attendant strike happen?

A work stoppage could occur as early as Aug. 2 at 12:01 a.m. mountain time if a negotiated agreement is not reached.

Are flights currently cancelled due to the notices?

No. According to WestJet, neither the strike notice nor the lockout notice has an immediate impact on operations, and no flights have been cancelled.

What should passengers with upcoming flights do?

Passengers are advised to monitor their email for notifications from WestJet. Those who booked through a third party should contact their travel agent or booking agency directly.