Pilots at Air Transat have approved a new five-year employment agreement with the airline after reaching a tentative deal in December, narrowly averting a potential strike. The last-minute agreement was reached just before the scheduled strike, preventing disruption during the busy holiday travel season.
According to a press release from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), which represents Air Transat pilots, 98% of pilots participated in the vote, with 91% supporting the agreement. The five-year contract is retroactive to May 1, 2025, and will run until April 30, 2030.
Captain Bradley Small, chair of the Air Transat ALPA master executive council, expressed satisfaction with the agreement, stating, “Our pilots collaborated effectively to secure a deal that recognizes our importance and contributions to the airline’s success.” Air Transat also confirmed the ratification of the agreement in a separate announcement.
Annick Guérard, President and CEO of Transat, praised the pilot agreement for its comprehensive improvements while acknowledging the pilots’ dedication. Guérard emphasized the focus on enhancing efficiency and productivity, thanking customers for their support during the uncertainty.
The ALPA aimed for increased wages, job security, and overall quality of life for Air Transat pilots, aligning with recent advancements in the aviation industry. Captain Small noted that the terms of the new agreement meet the current professional standards seen in other ALPA-affiliated pilot groups.
During the period of uncertainty surrounding the potential strike, Air Transat took precautionary measures by canceling some flights, causing minor disruptions for travelers. However, flight operations quickly resumed once the strike threat was resolved.