WestJet flight attendants have issued a 72-hour strike notice, signaling potential work stoppages as early as August 2, 2026. This development follows months of negotiations between the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 8125 and WestJet, with key issues remaining unresolved.
The primary points of contention include compensation for pre-flight and post-flight duties, which CUPE argues are currently unpaid. Flight attendants report performing approximately 35 hours of unpaid ground work each month. Additionally, the union seeks improvements in wages, scheduling, and job security.
CUPE Local 8125 represents about 4,400 WestJet flight attendants. The union's strike vote, conducted between July 8 and 15, 2026, resulted in a 99.4% approval for strike action, with a 97.3% voter turnout.
The 72-hour notice is a procedural step within Canada's federal labour framework, not an immediate indication of a strike. It allows both parties time to reach a resolution before any work stoppage occurs. The earliest possible job action could occur on August 2, 2026, following the end of a federally mandated cooling-off period.
WestJet has expressed its commitment to reaching a fair agreement and has been in active labour negotiations with CUPE since September 2025. The airline has proposed wage increases and improved work-life balance standards but has yet to reach a consensus with the union.
As the deadline approaches, both parties are encouraged to continue negotiations to avoid potential disruptions to air travel. Passengers are advised to monitor updates from WestJet and CUPE for the latest information on flight operations.