CALGARY — WestJet is winding down its network, starting with 81 flight cancellations for today, Saturday August 1.

“This action is in response to the union’s notice to strike and the inability to reach an agreement,” said WestJet.

Negotiations between WestJet and CUPE are down to the crunch. The airline’s 4,400 flight attendants will be in a legal strike position effective 00:01 MT tomorrow, Sunday August 2.

In a statement WestJet said it is initiating an organized take-down of its network and will start issuing flight cancellations to passengers.

“WestJet’s most recent proposal was designed to be a transformative, industry-leading agreement for WestJet’s Cabin Crew, and directly addressed the key issues the union identified as its priorities,” said the airline.

“To ensure the integrity of WestJet’s network, and to minimize the risk of stranding guests and aircraft, the airline has started to issue cancellations and reduce flying. These actions ensure the airline has complete control of its operations and can communicate with guests and crew to minimize people being stranded.”

WestJet said the airline remains at the bargaining table and is “committed to achieving a negotiated tentative agreement that recognizes the important contributions and professionalism of WestJet’s Cabin Crew.”

WestJet Encore flights operated on a Q400, as well as codeshare flights operated by airline partners, remain unaffected.

WestJet is advising passengers to check the status of their flight prior to leaving for the airport.

WestJet’s Travel Advisory page has all guest and travel-related questions and westjet.com/cabincrew has the latest updates on bargaining.

The 72-hour strike notice from the flight attendants’ union issued July 30 started the countdown to 00:01 a.m. MT on Sunday, August 2, when 4,400 cabin crew will be in a legal strike position. For WestJetʻs July 30 heads up to travel advisors, click here. For information on how WestJet is working with Air Canada to accommodate passengers, click here.