WestJet strike deadline approaches putting flights at risk during holiday weekend

WestJet and the union representing its flight attendants are continuing contract negotiations ahead of a strike deadline that could disrupt travel during one of Canada's busiest holiday weekends.

According to The Canadian Press, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), which represents about 4,400 WestJet flight attendants, issued a 72-hour strike notice that expires early on Sunday in Calgary, where the airline is based.

WestJet has also issued a lockout notice on the same timeline. If no agreement is reached, either side could begin a work stoppage, potentially leading to the cancellation of hundreds of flights.

The airline has not said how many services have already been cancelled in preparation for possible industrial action.

However, airlines typically reduce schedules before a strike to avoid aircraft and crew being stranded.

According to The Canadian Press, WestJet is allowing passengers travelling between 30 July and 4 August to make a one-time change or cancel their booking without paying fees.

Customers whose flights are cancelled because of a strike will be eligible for refunds.

Industry experts told The Canadian Press that a shutdown during the peak summer travel season could cost the airline millions of dollars while disrupting travel plans for thousands of passengers.