Flight attendants with WestJet, Canada’s second-largest airline, began a strike on Sunday due to a pay dispute. The Canadian Union of Public Employees, which represents the 4,400 cabin crew members, announced the strike on its Facebook page.
WestJet, a Delta Airlines partner, confirmed the strike and canceled over 300 flights by early Sunday. This disruption affected travel plans in Canada during a three-day weekend.
Dispute Over Groundwork Compensation
A principal issue in the dispute is how flight attendants are compensated for duties on the ground. The union claims some of this work remains unpaid, while WestJet argues staff receive compensation through a ‘credit hour’ system rather than an hourly rate.
“We presented a proposal that would have set a new standard for cabin crew in Canada,” stated Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of the WestJet Group. “Unfortunately, it wasn’t accepted.”
The proposal included an hourly rate covering all time before and after flights and a significant wage increase in the first year, among other union priorities.
Negotiations Continue
Alia Hussain, president of the union chapter representing the cabin crew, noted that efforts for a fair agreement recognizing the crew’s work were ongoing. “WestJet’s offer did not go far enough,” she stated.
Both parties express a willingness to resume negotiations. WestJet mentioned it couldn’t operate scheduled Boeing 737 or 787 flights, offering refunds or re-accommodation for travelers. Customers booking through travel agents or third-party platforms are advised to contact them directly.
WestJet Encore flights using Q400 aircraft, along with code-share flights by airline partners, are not affected.
Last summer, a similar strike by Air Canada flight attendants left over 100,000 travelers stranded, partially over the same groundwork issue. That work stoppage lasted three days before reaching an agreement.
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