A potential work stoppage looms for flight attendants at WestJet, Canada's second-largest carrier, after their union issued a 72-hour strike notice.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) 8125, which represents approximately 4,400 workers, has been in negotiations with WestJet over unpaid groundwork, compensation rates, and the airline's credit hour system.
CUPE president Alia Hussain stated that the union has been clear about its demands for a fair deal, but a strike notice does not necessarily mean that flight attendants want to go on strike.
WestJet responded to the union's move by issuing a 72-hour lockout notice, stating that these notices do not necessarily mean a labour disruption will occur.
The core of the disagreement revolves around unpaid groundwork, compensation rates, and the airline's credit hour system, with CUPE saying that cabin crews perform as much as 35 hours per month of uncompensated or underpaid groundwork.
The union wants compensation for all hours worked from the moment crews report in for duty, while WestJet backs its current "credit hour" model, which blends flight time, ground duties, and delays into a per hour pay rate of anywhere between $28.88 to $53.61 per credit hour.
WestJet has begun the process of parking some of its 737 aircraft to maintain operational control and protect the integrity of the broader network.
Travelers can check the status of their flights on the WestJet online portal, and the airline has offered travelers who booked into flights between July 30 and Aug. 4 a one-time change or cancellation with zero fees.
However, travelers should be aware that some bookings are entitled to refunds in the original form of payment, while others are entitled to travel credits only.
The airline will notify travelers who booked with WestJet of any changes through their booking information, while those who booked through a third-party should contact the travel agent directly.
A recent strike by Air Canada flight attendants in August 2025 highlighted the importance of addressing groundwork compensation, with the union ultimately reaching a tentative deal after a federal government order to return to work.
The issue of groundwork compensation remains a contentious one, with CUPE and WestJet still far from reaching a mutually acceptable agreement.
