WestJet cancels flights ahead of possible maintenance engineers strike

Proactive measures aim to minimize disruption to passengers

The WestJet Group has begun cancelling and consolidating flights in response to an expected strike by WestJet’s aircraft maintenance technicians and other technical staff. This measure is intended to park aircraft safely and enable clear communication with passengers to avoid stranding them.

The airline is awaiting a response from the Canadian Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) on whether WestJet and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) should be subjected to arbitration under the Canadian Labour Code, which could prevent the strike.

WestJet President and COO Diederik Pen expressed disappointment at the situation, citing a failure of the negotiation process despite a proposed agreement that would have included a 30 to 40 percent salary increase and made engineers among the best paid in Canada.

Over the next 48 hours, WestJet plans to gradually and safely park its aircraft, resulting in approximately 40 flight cancellations affecting approximately 6,500 passengers. Efforts are underway to accommodate affected travelers.

Passengers are advised to check the current flight status on the WestJet website before traveling to the airport.