WestJet warns customers resumption of operations will require time

After Canadian airline WestJet was faced with a surprise two-day strike from its mechanics’ union last week, the company says it will take time to get operations up and running again.

Some 680 members of the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association walked off the job last Friday evening, despite a directive for binding arbitration from the federal government.

As a result of the sudden work stoppage, WestJet was forced to cancel over 1,000 flights, impacting more than 100,000 guests on a long weekend in Canada.

Workers announced the end to their labour action Sunday night.

READ MORE: WestJet reaches deal with mechanics union, strike ended

The company said in a statement they have taken “significant strides” to resume normal operations, but further cancellations may be required over the coming days.

The Calgary-based airline said part of the challenge of getting things back on track is that its aircraft are parked at 13 airports across the country. In several cases, crews need to be transported to the aircraft for retrieval.

These planes will also require standard maintenance and safety checks before returning to service.

WestJet said Tuesday guests with imminent travel plans are advised to check the status of their flights prior to leaving for the airport, as cancellations and delays are still probable.

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