Canada's second-largest airline, WestJet, faced chaos as maintenance workers went on strike, leading to the cancellation of 407 flights and affecting 49,000 passengers. The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association cited the airline's refusal to negotiate as the reason for the strike, which took place despite a government order for binding arbitration. WestJet's CEO blamed a "rogue union from the U.S." for the situation and emphasized that bargaining had ended with the arbitration directive. The union defended their actions as an attempt to push for respectful negotiations and better compensation. Passengers expressed frustration and disappointment over disrupted travel plans, with some feeling the impact of the strike on a planned family trip. The ongoing dispute highlights the challenges faced by both the airline and its employees in reaching a resolution.