Canada's second-largest airline, WestJet, canceled 407 flights affecting 49,000 passengers after the maintenance workers' union went on strike. The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association began striking due to WestJet's unwillingness to negotiate. The strike, impacting international and domestic flights, followed a federal ministerial order for binding arbitration. WestJet will park aircraft through Sunday for the long weekend, operating approximately 30 planes by Sunday evening.WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech blamed the strike on a "rogue union from the U.S." and stated bargaining had ended after the government's arbitration order. He criticized the strike as unnecessary since there was no bargaining table. The union had rejected a contract offer that would have made mechanics the "best-paid in the country."Sean McVeigh, a WestJet aircraft maintenance engineer, said the strike aims to force respectful negotiations. He apologized for the inconvenience to passengers but emphasized the need for financial appreciation. Passengers at Pearson International Airport expressed frustration over rescheduled flights and unclear travel plans.

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