August 3, 2026 Team Contributor
CALGARY, AB — This is the most eagerly awaited WestJet flight attendants strike update. The WestJet flight attendants strike has officially come to an end after WestJet and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) reached a tentative collective agreement. The news brings relief to thousands of passengers affected by flight cancellations and travel disruptions during the busy summer holiday weekend.
The agreement, covering approximately 4,400 WestJet cabin crew members, immediately ends the labour dispute. Both the strike and lockout notices have been withdrawn. This allows the airline to begin restoring its network. The deal will now be presented to union members for a ratification vote.
“We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement that reflects the hard work and professionalism of our cabin crew,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, Chief Executive Officer of the WestJet Group.
“We know this disruption has been frustrating for our guests and WestJetters, and we’re sorry for that. Our teams are working hard to restore service and get our guests on their way to their destinations as quickly as possible, and we appreciate everyone’s patience as we get back to normal.”
WestJet Strike Caused Widespread Flight Cancellations
The WestJet strike disrupted travel plans for approximately 250,000 passengers, making it one of Canada’s most significant airline labour disputes in recent years.
During the strike, hundreds of WestJet flights were cancelled, including numerous mainline Boeing 737 and Boeing 787 services, causing widespread Canada flight delays and disruptions across the airline’s network.
At Vancouver International Airport (YVR) alone, 88 WestJet flights were cancelled, representing nearly 10% of the airport’s daily schedule. Similar operational challenges were reported at major airports across Calgary, Toronto, Edmonton and other Canadian cities.
Passengers faced long wait times to reach customer support, while many searched for alternative flights as the airline worked to manage the disruption.
Although mainline operations were heavily impacted, WestJet Encore continued operating its regional Q400 turboprop services, helping maintain limited connectivity across parts of Canada.
WestJet Travel Advisory: What Passengers Should Know
With the WestJet flight attendants strike ending, the airline says it is focused on restoring its full schedule as quickly and safely as possible.
WestJet will continue issuing travel updates as flights return to normal operations over the coming days. Some delays and schedule adjustments may still occur while aircraft and crew are repositioned across the network.
Passengers whose travel was affected by the strike will be refunded or rebooked, where applicable.
Customers who booked directly with WestJet will receive updates via the email address used during booking. Those who booked through travel agencies or third-party platforms should contact their booking provider for rebooking assistance or refund information.
Travellers are encouraged to regularly check their flight status and monitor the airline’s WestJet Travel Advisory for the latest operational updates.
CUPE-WestJet Agreement Awaits Ratification
While the immediate labour action has ended, the tentative agreement between CUPE and WestJet must still be approved by cabin crew members through a ratification vote.
The agreement marks a significant step toward restoring normal operations after a holiday weekend marked by uncertainty, cancelled flights and travel delays across Canada.
As WestJet rebuilds its schedule, passengers are advised to remain informed through official airline communications and monitor any changes to their itineraries before heading to the airport.
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