WestJet mechanics strike forces dozens more B.C. flight cancellations

Dozens of WestJet flights to and from Vancouver International Airport were cancelled Sunday, as a strike by airline mechanics continues.

Dozens of WestJet flights to and from Vancouver International Airport were cancelled Sunday, as a strike by airline mechanics continues.

According to the airline’s flight status page, 46 departures have been called off as have 46 arrivals. A labour dispute between the airline and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association escalated Friday – just as the Canada Day long weekend was getting underway.

Elsewhere in B.C., five flights have been cancelled departing Abbotsford, 12 leaving from Victoria and 14 out of Kelowna.

Canada-wide, the airline has cancelled more than 700 flights, impacting an estimated 100,000 travellers over the long weekend. Anyone planning to fly WestJet is urged to check their flight status before heading to the airport.

In a Saturday evening update, WestJet’s chief operating officer said “every avenue for resolution is being explored” while also slamming the union.

“Today has been incredibly challenging for all of us at WestJet. Every flight cancellation we are forced to issue represents hundreds of guests, who are being impacted by the continued reckless actions of this union,” says Diederik Pen, in an online update.

“In the face of immense adversity, our teams are working hard and delivering a safe and controlled operation.”