Hundreds of WestJet flights canceled as worker strike disrupts travel across Canada
By SCN Business Desk
OTTAWA — Hundreds of WestJet flights were canceled across Canada after workers launched strike action, disrupting travel plans for tens of thousands of passengers and creating long delays at major airports during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
The labor action forced Canada's second-largest airline to cancel flights across its domestic and international network as negotiations between the airline and union representatives failed to produce a last-minute agreement.
WestJet said the cancellations were necessary to protect passenger safety and maintain operational stability, urging travelers to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport.
Passengers at airports in Calgary, Toronto, Vancouver and other major cities faced lengthy queues as airline staff worked to rebook travelers on alternative flights where possible.
Union representatives said workers walked off the job after negotiations over wages, working conditions and job security reached an impasse. They argued that employees deserve compensation reflecting increased workloads and the airline's post-pandemic recovery.
WestJet expressed disappointment over the strike, saying it remained committed to reaching a negotiated settlement while minimizing disruption for customers.
Canadian transportation officials are closely monitoring the situation, with travel experts warning that flight schedules could remain disrupted until both sides return to the bargaining table.
The strike has also affected connecting passengers traveling between Canada, the United States, Europe and Asia, raising concerns about wider delays across international air travel networks.
Industry analysts say prolonged labor action could cost the airline millions of dollars while placing additional pressure on Canada's already strained aviation sector during the peak summer travel season.
Neither side announced an immediate breakthrough in negotiations, leaving uncertainty over when normal flight operations will resume.