WestJet cabin crew strike ends, tentative agreement reached between union and staff

Disruptions to WestJet operations have ended as the airline has reached a tentative agreement with its striking cabin crew.

WestJet cabin crew issued a 72-hour strike notice on July 30 and officially went on strike Sunday, Aug. 2, when a deal between the airline and the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) was not agreed upon.

This led to cancellations of the airlines’ scheduled 737 and 787 aircraft flights.

However, on Monday, Aug. 3, WestJet and the CUPE formed an agreement, which will now be submitted to the cabin crew for a ratification vote.

“We are pleased to have reached a tentative agreement that reflects the hard work and professionalism our cabin crew,” said Alexis von Hoensbroech, chief executive officer of WestJet. “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 will share more information about return to operations once it is available, it said in an email.

The cabin crew is advocating for fair wages, to stop unpaid work and improve working conditions.

Travellers taking WestJet flights are encouraged to check the status of their flight ahead of arriving at the airport. Information about the bargaining process can be found at westjet.com/cabincrew.

With files from Jordy Cunningham