WestJet flights are being cancelled by the dozens ahead of the busy long weekend, due to the looming possibility of a pilot strike set to move ahead on May 19.

After months of negotiations, The WestJet Group has still failed to reach an agreement, and announced on May 18 in a press release that the airline has started taking down its network as it prepares for labour action by WestJet and Swoop pilots.

Westjet has started cancelling flights and parking the majority of its planes “in a phased and safe approach” in advance of possible pilots strike at 3am tomorrow. Westjet & Swoop passengers are advised to check their flight status before heading to airport. pic.twitter.com/enZ93oahNm

— carl hanstke (@carlCityNews) May 18, 2023

According to their statement, this move will ensure the airline can avoid abandoning aircraft in remote locations without support, and minimize the potential of guests and crew being stranded.

"We are extremely disheartened to find ourselves in a place where we have to activate our contingency plan and subsequent takedown of our network as a result of the strike notice served by ALPA and their inability to accept a reasonable offer," said Alexis von Hoensbroech, CEO of the WestJet Group.

"We remain at a critical impasse with the union and have been left with no choice but to begin taking the painful steps of preparing for the reality of a work stoppage."

Worried about your WestJet flight? The airline is offering full refunds to customers who cancel scheduled flights through the weekend, when WestJet pilots could go on strike or get locked out. Read more: https://t.co/lDojOs4IPV

— Toronto Pearson (@TorontoPearson) May 17, 2023

Both Pearson and WestJet encourage travellers to check the status of their flight prior to leaving for the airport. For anyone impacted by flight delays or cancellations, WestJet says they will be refunded or re-accommodated as applicable.