At YVR Saturday, about 20 WestJet employees picketed outside the international arrivals area. Tens of thousands of travelers had to make alternative plans as unionized mechanics went on strike Friday, forcing the cancellation of over 150 flights on Friday and 235 flights Saturday. Passengers faced delays and flight cancellations on the busy Canada Day long weekend.

Mark Rudge, strike committee chair for the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, apologized for the disruption, stating that management's refusal to negotiate made the strike inevitable. Alyssa Smith, a spokesperson for YVR, advised passengers to check for updates and budget extra time at the airport.

The federal government issued a ministerial order for binding arbitration after two weeks of discussions. WestJet executives in Calgary reported that 235 flights had been canceled by midday Saturday, affecting 33,000 passengers, with the possibility of more cancellations.

WestJet president Diederik Pen called the strike devastating and assured efforts to resolve it. Many passengers expressed frustration on social media. Rudge emphasized the need for fair negotiations and better remuneration for mechanics to address staffing issues.

Under the proposed agreement, WestJet mechanics would receive a 12.5% wage increase in the first year, with a 23% increase over the term. WestJet pledged to follow regulations and refund passengers, but additional compensation was not provided.

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