Talks between WestJet and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 8125 are progressing under the guidance of federal mediators as a strike deadline approaches, according to the federal transport minister. Close to 4,400 flight attendants represented by the union could walk off the job as soon as Sunday, Aug. 2, unless both sides reach a negotiated agreement on a new collective agreement.
WestJet Contract Negotiations Center on Unpaid Work and Wage Rates
The federal transport minister noted Wednesday that negotiations are moving forward with support from the Federal Mediation Service. According to a WestJet spokesperson, the airline remains actively engaged in talks and is prepared to make meaningful improvements for cabin crew members while balancing future business sustainability.
However, CUPE 8125 President Alia Hussain stated that the onus remains on WestJet to make the necessary progress to avert a strike. According to Hussain, the primary sticking points in the dispute involve unpaid work and wage rates, with flight attendants seeking fair compensation for all hours worked and adjustments to move out from among the lowest-paid in Canada.
Did you know? Federal mediators were appointed earlier this month to assist WestJet and CUPE 8125 in reaching a negotiated settlement before the early August strike deadline.
NDP Urges Labour Minister to Avoid Section 107 Intervention
In a separate development Wednesday, NDP MPs Don Davies and Leah Gazan sent a letter to Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu urging her to commit against invoking Section 107 of the Labour Code in the event of a strike. According to the NDP letter, government intervention undermines the balance essential to meaningful collective bargaining.
Last summer, Minister Hajdu invoked Section 107 to force striking Air Canada flight attendants back to work and order binding arbitration, though that order was ignored before a negotiated settlement was eventually reached. When asked by Global News to respond to the letter, Hajdu’s office did not commit to avoiding future intervention, stating instead that the federal government maintains that the strongest deals happen at the table and that Canadians are relying on both parties to reach an agreement.
Traveler Impacts and Booking Flexibility Policies
In response to the looming labor disruption, WestJet implemented flexible booking policies for affected travelers. According to the airline, passengers with flights booked between July 30 and Aug. 4 are permitted to make a one-time change or cancellation to their itineraries without incurring additional fees.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the potential WestJet strike deadline?
Close to 4,400 flight attendants represented by CUPE Local 8125 could walk off the job as early as Sunday, Aug. 2, if a negotiated agreement is not reached.
What are the main issues in the WestJet flight attendant dispute?
According to CUPE 8125 President Alia Hussain, the primary sticking points are unpaid work and wage rates.
Are WestJet passengers able to change their flights?
Yes. WestJet is allowing passengers with flights booked between July 30 and Aug. 4 to make a one-time change or cancellation without a fee, according to airline statements.
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