WestJet, Canada's second-largest airline, is preparing to wind-down operations ahead of a potential strike or lockout by its flight attendants. But an agreement to gradually halt operations doesn't mean the company is guaranteed to go through a labour dispute, as negotiations between the union and the company continue.

As with last summer's brief strike by Air Canada workers, one issue is payment for work performed while on the ground.

The clock is ticking down toward a strike deadline that could see 4,400 WestJet flight attendants hit the picket line as soon as Sunday.