Thousands of passengers across Canada have been affected after flight attendants at WestJet, the country's second-largest airline, began a strike on Sunday following the collapse of contract negotiations with the airline. The industrial action coincided with one of the busiest travel periods of the summer and the Canadian holiday weekend, resulting in widespread disruptions to flight schedules. Around 250,000 travellers are estimated to have had their travel plans affected due to cancellations over the three-day holiday period.

The strike involves approximately 4,400 flight attendants represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). The union has said one of its key demands is that cabin crew should be paid from the time they report for duty until they complete their workday, rather than being compensated primarily for the time the aircraft is in the air. Flight attendants argue that significant work, including safety checks, passenger boarding and post-flight duties, takes place before take-off and after landing.

Negotiations between WestJet and the union failed to produce an agreement, prompting employees to begin strike action. The dispute centres on wages, working conditions and compensation for duties performed on the ground. The union maintains that the existing pay structure does not adequately reflect the full range of responsibilities carried out by flight attendants throughout their shifts, while the airline has expressed disappointment over the breakdown in talks.

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The strike has forced WestJet to cancel numerous flights, disrupting travel plans for hundreds of thousands of passengers during a peak holiday period. Airports across Canada have experienced delays and cancellations as travellers seek alternative arrangements. The timing of the strike has amplified its impact, with many families and holidaymakers travelling during the long weekend and the height of the summer travel season.

WestJet has stated that it is working to minimise disruption and assist affected passengers by providing updates, rebooking options and customer support where possible. The airline has also indicated that it remains committed to reaching a negotiated settlement with the union. Meanwhile, the union has signalled its willingness to return to the bargaining table if meaningful progress can be made on the outstanding issues.

The labour dispute highlights broader concerns within the aviation industry over compensation and working conditions for cabin crew. As negotiations continue, passengers are being advised to monitor the status of their flights before travelling to the airport. The duration of the strike and the pace of future negotiations will determine how quickly normal flight operations can resume across WestJet's network.

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