Montreal, QC – A severe strike has hit WestJet Airlines, one of Canada’s largest carriers, leaving thousands of travelers stranded and facing significant disruptions. The strike, which began early yesterday morning, has resulted in the cancellation of over 800 flights, affecting more than 100,000 passengers. The airline’s operations have ground to a halt, with no clear indication of when flights will resume.
The strike was called by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which represents the pilots of WestJet. The union is seeking better wages, benefits, and working conditions for its members. WestJet has offered a 10% wage increase over three years, but the union has rejected the proposal, citing that it does not meet their demands. The dispute has been ongoing for several months, with negotiations breaking down earlier this week.
As the strike continues, travelers are facing significant disruptions, with many being forced to rebook their flights or adjust their travel plans. The Canadian government has urged both parties to return to the negotiating table, but so far, no resolution has been reached. The impact of the strike is not only felt by WestJet passengers but also by the broader Canadian economy, with the airline industry being a significant contributor to the country’s GDP.