WestJet passengers who bought travel insurance after the announcement of a potential strike might not be covered for any flight disruptions caused by the labor dispute, experts warn. Travelers who purchased insurance before the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) disclosed that its members had voted overwhelmingly to strike could have been eligible for coverage.
However, insurance providers now consider the strike threat starting Aug. 2 as a “known event,” leading to possible denial of coverage for policies issued post-announcement. Manulife, in a memo to travel professionals, stated that benefits related to the potential strike would not apply. Martin Firestone, owner of Travel Secure, a travel insurance company in Toronto, emphasized that insurance companies are unlikely to cover events related to the known strike.
Firestone highlighted the importance of comprehensive travel insurance that covers not only airfare but also trip interruption expenses. He explained how trip interruption insurance could safeguard costs for missed cruises or other non-refundable bookings due to flight disruptions. In case of a strike, affected travelers may have limited options, including rebooking or seeking refunds from the airline.
While uncertainties loom over WestJet flights, both the union and the company continue negotiations to avert a potential strike. WestJet CEO Alexis von Hoensbroech reassured that a strike vote does not guarantee an actual strike, emphasizing ongoing efforts to reach a mutually acceptable agreement at the bargaining table. Union president Alia Hussain echoed the sentiment, expressing the union’s commitment to finding a resolution without resorting to a strike.
