Cyberattack on WestJet leaves app and website unstable

Canadian airline WestJet has confirmed that a cyberattack disrupted access to its mobile application and website, affecting several users and causing temporary interruptions to some internal systems. The incident, which came to light on Friday, prompted an immediate response from the company and a collaborative investigation with law enforcement and Transport Canada.

WestJet, headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, operates scheduled, charter, and cargo services. It is the second-largest airline in Canada and ranks as the eighth-largest in North America based on flight frequency. The airline’s large customer base and reliance on digital systems made the disruption especially concerning for travellers trying to access services online.

 

In a statement released on Friday, WestJet said the cyberattack had impacted its internal systems and restricted access to its digital platforms.

 

Users reported difficulties accessing the WestJet app and website, though the company reassured the public that it was working to limit the impact on its software and services.

WestJet said it is accelerating efforts to ensure operational safety and protect the sensitive data and personal information of both guests and employees. The airline also issued an apology to guests for any inconvenience caused by the disruption to its services.

By Saturday, the airline confirmed that its flight operations remained unaffected by the cyberattack. However, it was still working to assess the full extent of the incident. On Sunday, WestJet announced that user access to its app and website had been restored, although it warned that users may still experience occasional service interruptions.

“As of this morning, WestJet continues to make progress on safeguarding our digital environment and supporting the specialised teams working to resolve this situation,” the company said in a weekend update.

Despite providing regular status updates, WestJet has not shared specific details regarding the nature of the cyberattack, such as whether it involved ransomware or if any customer or employee data was compromised. Security researchers have contacted the airline for further information on the incident and its ongoing restoration efforts, but no additional details have been released so far.

The incident highlights the growing threat of digital breaches in the airline industry, where operational security and data protection are critical. WestJet continues to monitor the situation and has pledged to keep the public informed as the investigation progresses.