WestJet strike cancels 88 flights at YVR

WestJet’s suspension of mainline operations amid a cabin-crew strike cancelled 88 flights at Vancouver International Airport on Sunday, representing about 10 per cent of the airport’s scheduled flights that day.

The work stoppage involves roughly 4,400 flight attendants represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees. Compensation for work before and after flights, wages, scheduling and quality-of-life provisions were among the bargaining issues.

WestJet said its latest offer included double-digit increases to pre- and post-flight compensation and first-year wage rates, along with scheduling changes. The union rejected it, the airline said. The parties issued 72-hour strike and lockout notices July 30, and WestJet had already begun reducing flights to avoid stranding passengers, staff and aircraft.

WestJet Encore Q400 service, including 20 flights scheduled at YVR, was continuing, as were codeshare flights operated by partner airlines. YVR said other airlines were operating normally and urged WestJet passengers not to come to the Richmond airport without a confirmed itinerary.

Affected passengers are being contacted by email or text and can check WestJet’s website or app. People booked to travel from July 30 to Aug. 5 can make a one-time change or cancellation without an extra fee. No timeline has been confirmed for full restoration of mainline service.