WestJet has launched a no-fee, one-time rebooking policy for all domestic and transborder flights departing between 26 and 29 July as it braces for a potential strike by 3,100 flight attendants represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). The carrier announced the measure in a video update on 24 July, two days before the workers become legally able to walk off the job. Talks have stumbled over compensation for ground duties, scheduling rules and a proposed cap on multi-day pairings. CUPE members voted 94 % in favour of strike action earlier this month, echoing last year’s ground-pay dispute that grounded large parts of Air Canada’s network for 72 hours. Federal mediators joined negotiations on 21 July, but both sides remain far apart on wage increases pegged to inflation. The waiver allows customers to change dates, destinations or convert bookings to a travel credit without penalty, provided the new travel is completed by 31 December 2026. Group bookings and basic-economy fares—normally non-refundable—are also included, an unusual concession that underscores the airline’s concern about reputational fallout during one of the busiest leisure weekends of the year. Corporate travel managers should alert employees of potential disruptions, especially on key business corridors such as Calgary–Toronto and Vancouver–Los Angeles. Rival carrier Air Canada reports normal operations but says it will honour interline agreements if a WestJet shutdown strands passengers mid-itinerary. Labour analysts note that Ottawa’s new prohibition on replacement workers in federally regulated industries limits WestJet’s contingency options. If no deal is reached, the government could designate the strike a threat to the “national interest”—a move last used during the 2023 rail stoppage—forcing binding arbitration. For now, flexible re-booking remains the safest hedge for both leisure and business travellers.
Source: CityNews Toronto (video)
