WestJet strike cancels dozens of departing flights at YVR

Dozens of WestJet flights departing Vancouver International Airport were cancelled Sunday morning after the airline’s flight attendants went on strike.

YVR said it was increasing terminal staffing during the B.C. Day long weekend, when it expected an average of 85,100 passengers a day. The airport advised WestJet passengers to check their flight status or rebooking information before travelling to the terminal and not to come without a confirmed itinerary.

Flight attendants picketed outside the terminal while affected travellers sought alternatives inside. William Tweddle, who arrived from a cruise ship, said his planned arrival home in Scotland on Monday had been pushed back to at least Wednesday after he spent hours seeking assistance.

Negotiations between WestJet and the union representing its flight attendants were ongoing.