Possible WestJet strike adds uncertainty to B.C. Day travel

A possible WestJet flight-attendant strike is adding uncertainty for travellers during the B.C. Day long weekend. WestJet says about 70,000 passengers a day across Canada could be affected if it does not reach a deal with the union representing cabin crew.

The parties remain divided over issues including wages and compensation for work performed while planes are on the ground. WestJet has begun parking some Boeing 737 aircraft, saying it is intended to protect its network and reduce the chance that passengers are stranded if job action occurs.

Federal Jobs Minister Patty Hajdu said mediators continue to assist the parties and that Canadians expect them to remain at the table. The report says a strike could begin as early as Sunday.

More than 340,000 passengers are expected at Vancouver International Airport from Friday through Monday. BC Ferries says it will operate its full summer schedule; its major routes carried more than 400,000 passengers over last year’s holiday weekend, and it expects comparable demand this year.

Most vehicle reservations on major ferry routes have sold out. BC Ferries is warning travellers without reservations that waits could last several hours.