WestJet passengers brace for disruptions as strike looms

WestJet passengers are preparing for possible travel disruptions as the airline’s flight attendants could walk off the job as soon as Sunday if contract talks do not produce a deal. The Canadian Union of Public Employees, which represents about 4,400 WestJet flight attendants, issued a 72hour strike notice early Thursday. WestJet responded with its own 72hour lockout notice, while both sides continue talks over a key dispute about pay. Travellers facing potential cancellations are being told to rebook, cancel, or wait to see whether an agreement is reached before the deadline. Some passengers may receive refunds to their original payment method, while others will get travel credit depending on the fare type. Industry experts say the airline may have to rebook cancelled passengers on other carriers, but that could be difficult during the busy August long weekend.