WestJet Strike Grounds UK Flights as Cabin Crew Walk Out

WestJet flights from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff, London Heathrow and London Gatwick have been cancelled after the airline’s cabin crew began strike action in Canada.

The walkout began on Sunday, 2 August, after talks between WestJet and the Canadian Union of Public Employees ended without an agreement. The union represents around 4,400 WestJet cabin crew.

WestJet has now temporarily suspended its mainline operation, affecting flights operated by its Boeing 737 and Boeing 787 fleets.

The airline’s regional WestJet Encore services continue to operate, although these do not serve the UK.

The disruption has affected WestJet’s full UK network, with services from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Cardiff, Heathrow and Gatwick among those cancelled during the busy summer travel period.

WestJet began reducing its schedule before the strike started, cancelling 309 flights through Sunday night as aircraft and crews were returned to their bases.

The dispute centres on pay and the amount of time cabin crew spend working before and after a flight. The union is seeking payment from the time crew report for duty until they finish, including duties such as boarding passengers while the aircraft is on the ground.

WestJet said its latest offer included an hourly payment covering work before and after flights, alongside a double-digit wage increase during the first year. The offer was rejected by the union, although both sides have said they remain willing to return to negotiations.

Passengers booked to travel with WestJet are being advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport. The airline says affected customers will be offered a refund or moved onto an alternative service where possible.

There is currently no confirmed date for WestJet’s full operation to resume.