Canada: WestJet flight disruptions to continue nationwide through at least late August

Canadian airline WestJet (WS) flight cancellations are likely to continue networkwide through at least the end of August after 16 aircraft were damaged in a hailstorm Aug. 5. As of Aug. 16, WestJet is canceling up to 50 flights per day while the aircraft undergo repairs. The number of cancellations is expected to decrease in the coming weeks as the damaged aircraft resumes service in a phased approach. WestJet has added additional flights with subsidiary WestJet Encore (WR) and partner Canadian North (5T) and stated that it would organize re-accommodation for passengers impacted by the disruptions.

While flight cancellations are likely to impact mostly WestJet's network in Canada, they could extend to the airline's international routes to the US and Europe. Flight cancellations will likely result in reduced availability on alternative routes.