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WestJet's Strike Deadline Is Hours Away — Here's What You're Owed (and What You're Not)

  August 1, 2026 Thousands of flights are already being cancelled ahead of a possible strike this long weekend. Before you panic-book a new flight or file an insurance claim, here's what Canada's passenger rights rules actually cover — and the one detail almost nobody is explaining correctly. Where things stand this morning WestJet's roughly 4,000-plus flight attendants, represented by CUPE 8125, issued a 72-hour strike notice Thursday; WestJet answered with its own 72-hour lockout notice. Unless a deal is reached, a strike or lockout could begin as early as 12:01 a.m. Mountain time Sunday, Aug. 2. The airline has already started an "organized take-down" of its network, cancelling roughly 80 flights scheduled for today (Aug. 1) alone, with more cancellations expected as the deadline nears. Talks are still ongoing, and federal Labour Minister Steven MacKinnon has said negotiations are "progressing." The rights nuance almost no one is explaining correctly ...

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Vatican Prepares for Historic Conclave with Chimney Installation

 

 As the world awaits the election of a new pope, Vatican workers have installed the iconic chimney atop the Sistine Chapel, a crucial step in the preparations for the upcoming conclave. This chimney will serve as the conduit for the traditional smoke signals that inform the world of the voting progress.

The conclave, set to begin on May 7, will see 133 cardinal electors gather in secrecy to cast their votes for the next leader of the Catholic Church. The ballots will be burned in a special stove, producing either black smoke to indicate no decision or white smoke to announce the election of a new pope. Thousands are expected to gather in St. Peter’s Square, eagerly watching the chimney for the historic signal.

This centuries-old tradition remains one of the most anticipated moments in Vatican history, symbolizing the transition of leadership within the Church. As the cardinals prepare for their solemn duty, the world watches with anticipation, awaiting the moment when white smoke rises, signaling the arrival of a new pontiff.

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