Air Transat and its unionized pilots have successfully ratified a new five-year collective agreement, effectively averting a strike that was set to begin in less than twelve hours. The deal represents the first negotiated contract between the airline and its pilots in more than ten years.
Overwhelming Support from Pilots
In a vote conducted by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), the union representing the 725 Air Transat pilots, the agreement received strong endorsement. Of the 98% of eligible pilots who cast ballots, 91% voted in favour of the new contract. ALPA stated the agreement improves the pilots' competitive standing within the Canadian airline industry and establishes a stronger foundation for the future.
"Our pilots came together with professionalism and purpose to secure an agreement that reflects who we are and the essential role we play in our airline’s success," said Capt. Bradley Small, chair of ALPA’s Air Transat Master Executive Council. He acknowledged that significant pressure was required to reach a deal, crediting pilot unity for the final outcome.
A Deal Forged Under Pressure
The ratification concludes a tense period of labor negotiations. Over the past year, Air Transat pilots engaged in informational picketing at major hubs like Toronto and Montreal, opened a strike centre, and ultimately issued a 72-hour strike notice. The final agreement was reached less than 12 hours before a potential work stoppage was set to begin.
Capt. Small highlighted the pilots' efforts during challenging times, stating, "For years, Air Transat pilots have gone above and beyond through industry uncertainty and other challenges no one could have predicted. This agreement recognizes that contribution and the value pilots bring every day."
Management Hails "Comprehensive Overhaul"
Air Transat's management also expressed satisfaction with the result. Annick Guérard, President and CEO of Transat, called the vote favourable and described the contract as a "comprehensive overhaul" of the pilots' collective agreement.
"This agreement, beneficial for both parties, acknowledges the progress needed to catch up to the industry and the contribution of our pilots," Guérard said. She added that the deal incorporates major improvements in operational efficiency and productivity, which will support the company's growth strategy moving forward.
The new collective agreement is backdated to May 1, 2025, and will remain in effect until April 30, 2030. While the airline has stated it will not publicly disclose the specific details of the contract's conditions, both sides have hailed it as a pivotal step forward. The agreement brings stability to Air Transat's operations and ensures continuity for passengers following a period of significant uncertainty in the Canadian aviation sector.
