The labor union representing 4,400 flight attendants at WestJet has given a 72-hour strike notice, setting the stage for a potential strike during the busy summer travel season. The Canadian Union of Public Employees stated that significant differences persist between the two parties on critical matters.

Alia Hussain, chair of the union’s WestJet group, emphasized the need for necessary changes and expressed efforts to secure a fair agreement. Despite the looming strike possibility, Hussain remains hopeful for a resolution and highlighted ongoing negotiations to avert the strike.

In response to the union’s strike notice, WestJet issued a 72-hour lockout notice. The airline, Canada’s second-largest carrier, affirmed its commitment to active negotiations to reach a mutually beneficial settlement. WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech conveyed regret over the inconveniences caused to passengers due to the situation.

If an agreement is not reached, the potential job action could commence as early as Sunday at 12:01 a.m. MT. WestJet has allowed passengers with flights scheduled between July 30 and Aug. 4 to make changes or cancel without incurring fees. The carrier reassured that regional flights and code-share services would not be impacted by the strike.

Beyond the ongoing discussions, the two parties have also established protocols for grounding flights and ensuring the safe return of cabin crew in case of a work stoppage. Among the union’s concerns is the issue of unpaid ground duties, which WestJet contends are compensated through a credit hour system rather than hourly wages.

Aviation expert John Gradek warned that even a brief shutdown during the peak summer travel period could result in substantial financial losses for the airline. WestJet, known for operating a significant number of daily flights and carrying thousands of passengers, faces significant challenges in navigating the labor dispute.