WestJet Parks Boeing 737s Amid Cabin Crew Strike Threat
WestJet has begun parking its Boeing 737 aircraft in anticipation of a potential labour disruption involving its cabin crew. The Calgary-based airline took this measure on Friday afternoon, just before the busy Civic Holiday weekend.
This move is aimed at maintaining operational control and protecting the integrity of WestJet's network, according to the airline. It also minimizes the risk of stranding guests and aircraft, as stated in a release.
CUPE, the union representing cabin crew, issued a 72-hour strike notice on Thursday, prompting WestJet to issue a lockout notice. A strike could begin as early as Sunday at midnight, mountain time.
The Canadian Federation of Independent Businesses (CFIB) has called on Ottawa to intervene if a strike happens, citing the major consequences it would have for Canada's transportation network and small businesses relying on summer tourism.