Pilots at Air Transat have approved a new five-year employment contract with the airline after coming to a tentative agreement in December and narrowly avoiding a strike. The tentative deal was reached just before pilots were about to strike, which could have impacted the busy holiday travel season.
According to a press release from the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), 98% of pilots voted on the agreement, with 91% in favor of the deal. The contract, effective from May 1, 2025, to April 30, 2030, has been officially ratified by both the pilots and the airline.
Captain Bradley Small, chair of the Air Transat ALPA master executive council, expressed satisfaction with the agreement, stating that it recognizes the pilots’ importance in the airline’s success. Air Transat also confirmed the ratification of the contract in a separate announcement.
Annick Guérard, President and CEO of Transat, praised the pilot agreement, highlighting its comprehensive nature and improvements in efficiency and productivity. She also thanked customers for their loyalty during the uncertain period.
ALPA aimed to secure a contract that would enhance pilot wages, job security, and overall quality of life, aligning with recent agreements at other Canadian airlines. Following the announcement of the tentative deal, Small mentioned that the terms met the current professional needs of pilots, in line with agreements at other ALPA-represented airlines.
During the strike threat, Air Transat preemptively canceled some flights, causing disruptions for travelers. However, operations quickly resumed once the strike was averted, minimizing the impact on passengers.