A strike by WestJet plane mechanics led to the cancellation of hundreds of flights, affecting 110,000 travelers over the Canada Day weekend. Despite a directive for binding arbitration, 680 workers crucial to airline operations walked off the job, prompting the carrier to demand action from the federal government. WestJet President Diederik Pen expressed urgency for clarity on the simultaneous strike and arbitration orders. The airline canceled 829 flights between Thursday and Monday, topping the global list for cancellations among major airlines. Customers like Trevor Temple-Murray and exchange student Marina Cebrian faced uncertainty and frustration due to multiple flight cancellations. The Airplane Mechanics Fraternal Association and WestJet have both accused each other of refusing to negotiate in good faith. The union seeks a bargaining-based deal while WestJet has offered a 12.5% wage hike in the first year of the contract.