In a surprising turn of events, WestJet, Canada's second largest airline, has been forced to cancel 407 flights, affecting approximately 49,000 passengers, after its maintenance workers union declared a strike. The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) initiated the strike on Friday evening, citing the airline's unwillingness to negotiate with the union as a primary reason.

The strike, which has impacted both international and domestic flights, comes following the federal government's decision to issue a ministerial order for binding arbitration on Thursday. This move came after two weeks of tumultuous discussions between WestJet and the labor union regarding a new contract.

WestJet has announced that it will continue to keep some of its aircraft grounded through Sunday for the long weekend, which culminates with Canada Day on Monday. The airline, which operates around 200 aircraft, expects to have approximately 30 in operation by Sunday evening.

WestJet's CEO, Alexis von Hoensbroech, has placed the blame for the situation squarely on what he describes as a "rogue union from the U.S." attempting to make inroads in Canada. Von Hoensbroech contended that since the government has directed the dispute to binding arbitration, further negotiations with the union are unnecessary. He deemed the strike as "totally absurd" in the absence of a bargaining table.

Von Hoensbroech further revealed that the union had rejected a contract offer that would have made WestJet mechanics the highest-paid in the country. The union negotiating committee, however, referenced an order by the Canada Industrial Relations Board, which did not explicitly prohibit strikes or lockouts during the arbitration process.

One striking WestJet aircraft maintenance engineer, Sean McVeigh, expressed that the strike aims to compel the airline to return to respectful negotiations. He emphasized the need for a conducive bargaining environment.

As passengers face widespread flight cancellations, WestJet and the maintenance workers union seem to be in a standoff that will continue to impact travelers and the aviation industry, hampering expectations for a smooth travel experience during the holiday weekend.