WestJet strike is underway. What does it mean for Ottawa?

WestJet has temporarily suspended all flights due to a labor disruption involving cabin crew, according to an advisory on the airline’s website on Sunday. While WestJet’s main service is halted, WestJet Encore flights—operating with smaller aircraft under the subsidiary—continue to operate. The dispute followed a 72-hour strike notice issued by flight attendants on July 30, followed by a 72-hour lockout notice, with both sides failing to reach an agreement. The Canadian Union of Public Employees lists demands including pay for all work performed (including on the ground), keeping wages aligned with inflation, improving scheduling and fatigue protections, and increasing pay to reflect flight attendants’ safety role.