Air Canada flight attendants represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) will hold a 'simultaneous action' across Canada on Monday, Aug. 11.

A strike by WestJet flight attendants has begun after the airline and union failed to reach an agreement, impacting thousands of travelers. The union, CUPE 8125, rejected a proposed 13% pay increase effective October 1, retroactive to January 1, 2026, along with a 'duty pay premium' equivalent to another 12% salary boost. The offer also included benefits like expanded healthcare accounts, maternity leave top-ups, and flexible work programs. WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech stated the proposal aimed to set a new standard for cabin crew in Canada, but the union argued it did not address unpaid work hours adequately. Over 250,000 passengers have been affected by flight cancellations, with more disruptions expected if negotiations fail. The strike follows similar actions by Air Canada last year, where government intervention forced a resolution. Union president Alia Hussain criticized the airline for dismissing concerns over unpaid duties for nearly 11 months of bargaining, emphasizing that a comprehensive contract could have avoided the strike.

Unionised flight attendants reached an agreement with Air Canada, ending the first strike by cabin crew in 40 years.