WestJet and union negotiate as strike deadline nears

With a strike deadline looming this weekend, WestJet and the union representing its 4,400 flight attendants are locked in intense negotiations over a new contract, raising the prospect of widespread travel disruptions during the peak summer season. The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 8125 could legally walk off the job as soon as Sunday, August 2, following the conclusion of a federally mandated cooling-off period.

Federal Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said on Wednesday, July 29, that talks are progressing and are well-supported by federal mediators, expressing hope for a negotiated agreement. Both the airline and the union have confirmed they are actively engaged in bargaining. WestJet has stated it is prepared to make meaningful improvements for cabin crew while ensuring the airline's future sustainability.

The central issue in the dispute is compensation for work performed on the ground. Union President Alia Hussain has identified unpaid work and wage rates as the key sticking points. The union argues that flight attendants are not paid for tasks like boarding and pre-flight preparations under the current "credit hour" pay system, which only counts time...