WestJet prepares for possible strike as talks continue

WestJet is planning for a possible shutdown of operations if talks with its unionized flight attendants fail to produce a deal. The airline says the contingency steps do not mean a labour dispute is certain, while union representatives say they still want to avoid a strike and reach an agreement. Federal mediators remain involved, and Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon said negotiations are still moving forward. If either side gives the required 72 hours' notice, WestJet could begin cancelling flights as early as the days leading into Aug. 2, when flight attendants could legally strike or the airline could lock them out. A major issue in the dispute is pay for time spent working on the ground, including boarding, deplaning and delays. WestJet says its pay model is common in North America and that credithour wages account for those duties, while the union argues that workers are performing unpaid labour.