FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. - The Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), which represents about 4,400 WestJet flight attendants, has issued a 72-hour strike notice.
However, travellers flying in and out of Fort St. John are not expected to be directly affected if flight attendants move ahead with strike action this weekend.
Job action could begin as early as Sunday if the two sides fail to reach an agreement.
WestJet responded with a 72-hour lockout notice as contract negotiations continue.
WestJet says flights operated by WestJet Encore using Bombardier Q400 aircraft and codeshare flights run by partner airlines will continue operating even if a strike or lockout occurs.
Despite that reassurance, officials at the North Peace Regional Airport are continuing to monitor the labour dispute between WestJet and the union representing flight attendants.
Airport Managing Director Stacy Smith said, “There has been no word yet on any direct local impacts, but travellers should continue checking WestJet’s website for updates as negotiations continue.”
The bigger concern for Peace Region passengers could be connections through major hubs such as Calgary, Edmonton and Vancouver, where disruptions to mainline WestJet flights could create travel challenges.
The airline has also allowed travellers with flights scheduled between July 30 and August 4 to make a one-time change or cancellation without a fee.
The airline and union remain in negotiations, with both sides saying they are continuing to work toward a deal before any job action begins.