Canada: WestJet technicians to launch nationwide strike starting June 28; flight cancellations planned starting June 27

WestJet (WS) maintenance engineers and technical workers represented by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) plan to launch a nationwide strike in Canada starting from 15:30 EDT June 28 amid ongoing negotiations on pay increases. The airline has canceled approximately 25 flights June 27-28. The intended duration of the AMFA's industrial action is unclear, but it will likely depend on the success of negotiations. AMFA previously planned a similar strike for June 20, leading to the cancellation of approximately 40 flights, though it called off the action before its planned start.

Unless averted, the strike will likely prompt significant flight delays and cancellations across WestJet's network; flight disruptions are also probable with the carrier's subsidiary Sunwing (WG). WestJet could announce further preemptive flight cancellations and adjustments over the coming days. Flight disruptions will probably extend for several hours beyond the end of the strike as the company repositions aircraft and works through its passenger backlog.