WestJet passengers may find themselves without financial protection if faced with a flight disruption due to a potential strike. Experts suggest that insurance bought after the announcement of the strike is unlikely to provide reimbursement for travel disruptions resulting from the labor dispute.
Travelers who had purchased insurance before the announcement by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) may have been covered. However, since CUPE Local 8125 indicated the possibility of a strike over the upcoming August long weekend if an agreement is not reached with WestJet, insurance companies could now consider a strike or lockout starting on August 2 as a “known event” and may deny coverage.
According to a memo from insurance provider Manulife, benefits related to this potential strike may not be applicable. Martin Firestone, a travel insurance salesman, commented that this development is not surprising, as insurance companies typically do not cover known events.
Firestone highlighted that current travel insurance policies will still cover events like illness or death, depending on the policy. However, coverage for flight cancellations due to a strike may not be included in new policies.
In the case of a strike causing flight disruptions, airlines are generally responsible for rebooking flights or providing refunds. Nonetheless, Firestone emphasized the importance of comprehensive insurance coverage beyond just the flight cost.
For travelers who did not purchase insurance, options may be limited if a strike occurs, with the possibility of refunds or rebooking offered by the airline. However, alternative carriers may not provide as convenient rebooking options.
While uncertainties remain regarding the potential strike, both the union and the company are working towards a resolution. WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech and the union president have expressed commitment to reaching an agreement before any strike action.