WestJet Cabin Crew Strike Grounds Over 300 Flights Amid Compensation Dispute

Over 4,400 WestJet cabin crew members have gone on strike after nearly 11 months of contract negotiations with the airline. The strike, which began on August 2, 2026, has already disrupted WestJet operations, forcing the cancellation of more than 300 flights.

The labor dispute centers around compensation for duties performed by flight attendants before departure and after arrival. According to CUPE 8125 President Alia Hussain, 'We tried until the very last minute to get a fair deal that recognizes the value of the work cabin crews do.' However, WestJet claims its existing compensation model already covers these responsibilities.

The airline has grounded parts of its Boeing 737 fleet in an effort to minimize operational disruption and avoid stranding passengers and aircraft. WestJet Encore flights operated by De Havilland Dash 8 Q400 aircraft and codeshare services operated by partner airlines continue to operate as scheduled.