WestJet Cancels 20 Flights Between Canada, Jamaica, Cuba, and the U.S., Affecting Travelers from Toronto, Montreal, Orlando, Florida, and More: Here All You Need to Know

WestJet has announced the cancellation of 20 scheduled flights, striking at major travel lanes between Canada, Jamaica, Cuba and the U.S. The disruption affects travellers departing from Toronto Pearson (CYYZ), Montreal-Trudeau (CYUL) and heading to destinations like Sangster International in Montego Bay (MBJ / MKJS), Frank Pais (HOG / MUHG) in Cuba and Orlando International (KMCO) in Florida. Many affected passengers are now facing changes to holiday or business plans with limited time to re-organise.

List of Cancelled Flights

What This Means for Travellers

If you were booked on any of these affected flights, you may now need to make alternative arrangements, face schedule changes or possibly incur additional cost. Under Canada’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations (APPR), when a large airline such as WestJet cancels your flight, you have rights. These include being re-booked on the next available flight or receiving a refund if you choose not to travel
It’s essential to stay in contact with WestJet, check your email and mobile notifications, and monitor the flight status through official channels.

Why Did This Happen?

Although WestJet has not released a full cause list for each flight, recent labour tensions and strike-risk concerns are part of the wider picture. The federal Canadian government even intervened in June 2024 when maintenance engineers at WestJet threatened strike action, which had already led to hundreds of cancellations.
In addition to labour issues, external factors such as Caribbean weather conditions (especially in Montego Bay) can impact flight schedules for outgoing Canadian routes.

Passenger Rights and Compensation

The Canadian Transportation Agency (CTA) outlines passenger rights when flights are cancelled. Airlines must provide:

• clear information about the cancellation reason,
• options for rebooking or refund,
• and, depending on the cause and delay length, compensation of up to CAD $1,000 or more for large airlines under certain conditions.
  WestJet’s own policy states that for cancellations within its control, clients may be eligible for compensation under the APPR.
  It’s important to act quickly: if you choose a refund, you still may have the right to compensation. Keep all receipts, communications and bookings as evidence in these cases.

What You Should Do Now

1. Check Your Booking – Visit WestJet’s flight status page or use the app.
2. Contact WestJet – Ask for rebooking details or a full refund.
3. Explore Alternatives – If your route is still valid, consider other airlines or nearby airports.
4. Keep Records – Save emails, texts and a log of your calls for any future claim.
5. Know Your Rights – Review the “Flight Delays and Cancellations: A Guide” published by the CTA. otc-

Wider Travel Implications

For travellers planning Caribbean or U.S. getaways from Canada, such cancellations highlight the importance of flexibility. These disruptions make it clear that scheduling, weather and labour issues can all affect your trip. Booking refundable fares or ensuring travel insurance is in place could save time and money.

Additionally, if you’re connecting on to another flight or have a holiday package, a cancellation of your initial flight can ripple through your entire itinerary—affecting hotels, activities, and onward transport.

Final Thoughts

For those booked on the cancelled WestJet flights, this moment may feel frustrating and uncertain. But it can also be a chance to reshape your travel plan, perhaps embrace a new route or stay extra if needed. WestJet and Canadian law offer protections—and you don’t have to face this alone.

Remember, a cancellation doesn’t have to mean the end of your journey. With the right steps, you can still land at your destination or receive a fair refund. Stay calm, act promptly and travel safe.

DISCLAIMER IN FLIGHT CANCELLATION NEWS

The post WestJet Cancels 20 Flights Between Canada, Jamaica, Cuba, and the U.S., Affecting Travelers from Toronto, Montreal, Orlando, Florida, and More: Here All You Need to Know appeared first on Travel and Tour World