WestJet flight attendants have begun voting on a strike mandate as contract negotiations with the airline continue, raising the possibility of labour action during the busy summer travel season.

More than 4,000 members of CUPE Local 8125 started voting on Wednesday, with ballots remaining open until 15 July. The union emphasized that a successful strike authorization vote would strengthen its bargaining position but would not automatically trigger a strike.

Pay System at the Centre of Negotiations

Contract talks between WestJet and the union have been ongoing for more than 10 months, with compensation remaining the key issue.

The union argues that flight attendants perform an average of 35 hours of unpaid work each month and is seeking changes to the airline’s current compensation model.

WestJet disputes that claim, saying its cabin crew are compensated through a credit-hour pay system that combines flight time, ground duties, delays and other required work into a single rate of pay.

The airline says the model is standard across North America and that all duty time is paid in accordance with the collective agreement.

Earliest Strike Date Is 2 August

According to CUPE 8125 President Alia Hussain, the earliest a legal strike or employer lockout could occur is 2 August.

That timeline would apply only if no tentative agreement is reached, conciliation is not extended and the required 72-hour strike notice is issued.

The union has also announced a day of action at Calgary International Airport on 14 July to raise awareness of the ongoing negotiations.

Both Sides Continue Negotiations

Bargaining sessions are continuing in Calgary through Friday.

“Our focus remains on reaching a negotiated tentative agreement at the bargaining table,” Hussain said, adding that the union remains hopeful an agreement can be reached without disrupting passengers’ travel plans.

WestJet said it remains committed to reaching a collective agreement that recognises the professionalism of its cabin crew while ensuring the airline remains competitive and financially sustainable.