Winnipeg WestJet flight attendants hold day of action as a potential strike looms
Posted July 14, 2026 5:04 pm.
Last Updated July 14, 2026 6:30 pm.
For the second summer in a row, a major airline could be going on strike. WestJet flight attendants held a day of action at the Winnipeg airport amidst a strike vote taking place this week, sending a clear message to the company.
“We are required to show up an hour before the flight leaves, we’re doing security checks, were doing preflight briefings, catering checks, and then briefings with the guests who are traveling with us, all before the cabin door is closed, and we’re not being paid for any of that,” said Tyson Conrod, a flight attendant and Winnipeg Base vice president for CUPE 8125.
About one-third of the 255 Winnipeg Base members attended the day of action, which also took place in Calgary. The airline says operations have not been impacted.
According to the union, flight attendants work 35 hours unpaid on average per month, but WestJet’s CEO says they are ready to entertain changing to a new structure for how flight attendants are paid.
“They play an incredibly in our business, and we need a contract that is significantly improved in terms of compensation, and in terms of structure, so we are working with them to come to a conclusion that works for our flight attendants and that also works for the company,” said WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech.
Meanwhile, inside the Winnipeg airport, the day of action caught the attention of concerned travellers. Many of whom say after Air Canada’s strike last year derailed so many travel plans, they hope it doesn’t come to that this time around.
“I feel like if WestJet were to go on strike, it would probably mess with a lot of us flying into camp jobs,” said Will Stover, who travels with WestJet frequently for work.
“They would have to book me on a different flight, and it would take me a lot longer to get into work,” said Stover.
Rosa Buschau, who was travelling to Iceland with WestJet, said, “Obviously they should be paid fairly and this and that; unfortunately, it’s happening when we’re about to go on this huge adventure with kids, and we don’t want to be stranded somewhere.”
Joe Bradbury, who was also travelling to Iceland with WestJet, said, “When bargaining units have discussions, you hope that they have a positive resolution; we’re hoping that both sides solve their issues so it doesn’t impact us as a consumer.”
The strike voting will end Wednesday. If passed, the earliest strike action can take place is August 2.
“I’m comfortable with what we’re doing; I believe that the solidarity that we’re showing here today and across Canada is going to get us what we need,” said Rena Kisfalvi, a WestJet flight attendant.
“We’re looking for fair wages, respect, and ultimately, as safety professionals, we deserve the respect and collective agreement language that reflects that.”
