WestJet announces significant flight reductions due to ongoing AMFA strike

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WestJet today announced additional flight cancellations as the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) strike enters its third day. Since strike notice was issued just days before the Canada Day long weekend, the airline has canceled an additional 410 flights overnight, bringing the total to more than 800.

“Missed vacationers, stranded business travelers, and long weekend family reunions have been disrupted due to AMFA’s decision to strike, and we are sincerely sorry to the dozens thousands of Canadians who have suffered the cumulative effects of this unnecessary work stoppage. I am encouraged by our employees’ willingness to overcome adversity and ensure a safe and controlled operation in the future. » says Diederik Pen, WestJet Airlines President and Group Chief Operating Officer. “We continue to believe that the current strike is intended to cause maximum damage to our airline and the country. WestJet has received a binding arbitration order and is urgently awaiting clarification from the government that a strike and arbitration cannot occur simultaneously. This is something WestJet has committed to and, like all Canadians, we are waiting.”

As part of the ongoing disruption, WestJet is parking more aircraft, reducing its operational fleet to approximately 32 active aircraft. The airline will continue to operate a reduced schedule with the remainder of its fleet for the duration of the strike.

Total cancellations per day (as of June 30, noon MT):

• Thursday, June 27, 2024: 18
• Friday June 28, 2024: 25
• Saturday June 29, 2024: 284
• Sunday June 30, 2024: 424
• Monday July 1, 2024: 78
• Tuesday July 2, 2024: 3

Total number of canceled flights: 832

Travelers are advised to check the status of their flights before traveling to the airport. For more information on flight status and travel changes, please visit WestJet’s Guest Updates page.