The Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce is expressing their concern over the potential WestJet pilot’s strike.

Dianna de Sousa, Executive Director of the Fort McMurray Chamber of Commerce says that many businesses rely on the airline for more than just passenger travel.

“Should the impending Wesjet pilot strike come to fruition, the economic impact would be more significant than passenger disruption,” says de Sousa.

“I am hoping that the issues can be resolved at the bargaining table before the strike action takes place.”

Jessica Lipton, Manager of Marketing and Communications for the Fort McMurray Airport Authority says WestJet has 38 arrivals and departures from the Fort McMurray International Airport each week.

In the most recent update from WestJet, a work stoppage could occur as early as Friday, May 19, 2023, at 3 a.m. MT. However, the airline notes that both parties remain at the bargaining table.

The airline says guests who booked directly with WestJet or Swoop, can look for any changes to existing travel to be directly communicated via the email available on file. Guests who booked through a travel agent or online booking agency, are asked to contact them directly.

According to the airline, WestJet Encore will not be affected by any job action. Encore flights will continue as usual.