WestJet has begun parking a number of Boeing 737 aircraft as negotiations with its cabin crew remain unresolved, creating the potential for labour disruption at the Calgary-based carrier. The company, which is owned by Onex Corp, said it is taking aircraft out of operational service while talks continue.
The Canadian Union of Public Employees, which represents WestJet flight attendants, has said its members could initiate a strike as early as August 2 at 12:01 a.m. Mountain Time (0601 GMT) if the parties do not reach an agreement. The union's contention centers on compensation for time worked: it is asking that crew be paid from the moment they check in until they clock out, a practice that the union says is not currently in place.
In a statement, WestJet said it remains active at the bargaining table to secure a mutually acceptable deal as soon as possible. The carrier added that the decision to park Boeing 737 aircraft is intended to preserve operational control while discussions are ongoing.
WestJet also noted that flights operated by WestJet Encore on Bombardier Q400 aircraft are not affected by the parking of the 737s. In addition, flights that are codeshares operated by partner airlines continue to operate normally, the carrier said.
The union did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The situation remains fluid as both sides continue bargaining and the potential strike date approaches.
Context and operational detail
By removing Boeing 737 jets from active service ahead of a possible walkout, WestJet is positioning itself to manage scheduling and fleet availability while talks proceed. The company framed the parking action as a step to maintain control over its operations rather than as a signal that a strike is inevitable.
As of the carrier's statement, turboprop operations under the WestJet Encore brand and partner-operated codeshare flights are continuing without interruption.