WestJet flight attendants vote for strike authorization, making walkout possible by Aug. 2

Almost all union members voted for strike action after months at the bargaining table

CUPE 8125, which represents 4,400 of WestJet’s flight attendants, said Wednesday that almost all of its members voted for strike action after months at the bargaining table. “The members of CUPE 8125 are united and determined. They voted to strike because they stand behind the bargaining priorities that they have identified, especially pay for all hours of work performed,” said CUPE 8125 president, Alia Hussain, in a statement.

Hussain called on the airline to return to bargaining with a new focus. “WestJet should do the right thing and prevent travel disruptions for their passengers.” WestJet has not immediately responded to requests for comment.

The mainline WestJet flight attendants have been working without a collective agreement since it expired at the end of 2025. The strike vote does not mean a strike will necessarily occur but it provides union members the opportunity to authorize a walkout “should it become necessary at a later stage of the bargaining process, while strengthening the bargaining committee’s position in negotiations,” CUPE said.