WestJet probes cybersecurity incident affecting internal systems and mobile app

WestJet Airlines, Canada’s second-largest air carrier, is investigating a cybersecurity incident that has disrupted access to its internal systems and mobile app. The company disclosed the breach in a public statement on Friday, confirming that several users had experienced restricted access due to the incident.

In its initial communication, the Calgary-based airline reported that specialized internal teams have been activated to assess the breach. These teams are working closely with Canadian law enforcement and Transport Canada to determine the scope of the intrusion and mitigate any potential impact.

The airline emphasized that operational safety remains intact and unaffected by the breach. A follow-up update issued Saturday reiterated that WestJet’s flights and overall operations are continuing safely. However, access to certain digital services, including the airline’s app and website, had been temporarily impacted, although those functionalities have since been restored.

WestJet stated that it is prioritizing the protection of sensitive information and is taking steps to safeguard both customer and employee data. The company has not yet released information on the number of affected users or whether personal data was compromised. The nature and source of the cyberattack also remain unclear at this time.

“It is too early to speculate on details, though we are committed to sharing what we know as information becomes available,” the airline noted in its statement.

The incident comes amid a broader trend of increasing cyber threats targeting Canada’s critical infrastructure. Earlier this year, energy provider Emera and its subsidiary Nova Scotia Power reported a cyber intrusion that involved unauthorized access to their network and servers.

WestJet has apologized to its customers for any disruption in service access caused by the breach and reaffirmed its commitment to data security and transparency as the investigation continues.