WestJet flight attendants could strike on the August long weekend - if they vote yes
WestJet flight attendants have voted overwhelmingly in favor of a strike, potentially grounding the airline during the August long weekend. The union is seeking better compensation to address inflation, while the airline acknowledges the need for contract improvements.
Why it matters
A strike at a major carrier would cause significant travel disruptions for thousands of passengers during a peak holiday period.
With the yes vote results confirmed on Wednesday morning, about 4,400 union members represented by CUPE Local 8125 could legally walk off the job on Aug. 2. A CUPE representative told CBC News 97.3 per cent of flight attendants participated in the vote.
A strike by mainline flight attendants would effectively ground WestJet, Canada's second-largest airline, the day before a statutory holiday in many provinces.
WestJet could also lock out flight attendants as of that date should it choose , regardless of the strike vote, because a federal "cooling off" period will have ended.
Either side would need to provide 72 hours' notice, so Canadians may be waiting until the end of the month to know whether their August flights will take off.
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