WestJet Cancels Over 100 Flights Starting Today
WestJet has canceled over 150 flights starting today due to a strike by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), which began at 5:30 p.m. MDT Friday. The union cited WestJet’s refusal to negotiate as the reason behind the strike, despite the federal government’s intervention with a binding arbitration order issued on Thursday following weeks of contentious talks.
Based in Calgary, WestJet strongly criticized the union’s actions, blaming AMFA entirely for the disruption and costs caused. Initially, AMFA had indicated compliance with the arbitration order, leading WestJet to believe that no strike or lockout would occur and flight cancellations would cease.
However, the situation took a surprising turn on Friday, unsettling both travelers and company executives alike. The union’s negotiating committee referred to a Canada Industrial Relations Board decision that didn’t explicitly prevent strikes or lockouts during the arbitration process prompted by Labour Minister Seamus O’Regan’s directive.
In response, Minister O’Regan expressed concern over the Board’s decision and hinted at potential further actions to safeguard the interests of the airline, the union, and Canadian travelers during the national holiday weekend.
This isn’t the first time WestJet has faced strike threats. Last year, the airline narrowly avoided a strike just before the May long weekend, although it still had to cancel more than 230 flights, disrupting travel plans for thousands of passengers.
Most recent tweet today:
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