MONTREAL, QC – Air Transat is moving to gradually suspend all flights between Monday, December 8, and Tuesday, December 9, following a 72-hour strike notice issued by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), the union representing the company’s 700 pilots.
The strike could begin as early as 3:00 a.m. ET on Wednesday, December 10, right as the busy holiday travel season is ramping up. Transat AT, the leisure carrier’s parent company, stated that the full suspension is necessary to prevent passengers and crews from being stranded abroad if the strike occurs.
Negotiations and Compensation Demands
The pilots’ union, whose members voted 99% in favour of strike action last week, is seeking a modern collective agreement to improve compensation, working conditions, benefits, and job security. The current contract dates back to 2015.
Air Transat characterized the strike notice as “premature” given progress at the bargaining table and accused ALPA of showing “no openness”. The airline disclosed it has proposed compromises, including a 59% salary increase over five years and major improvements to working conditions.
However, the union’s representative, Capt. Bradley Small, chair of the Air Transat Master Executive Council, called the airline’s salary figure “very inaccurate” and a product of “creative accounting”.
“There is still time to avoid a strike but unless significant progress is made at the bargaining table, we will strike if that’s what it takes to achieve a modern contract,” Small warned. He added that if an agreement cannot be reached, “management will be responsible for every cancelled flight and stranded passenger”.
Impact on Travellers
Air Transat said it deeply regrets the impact this disruption will have on travellers during the busy holiday period. The airline mainly services Europe, the Caribbean, the U.S. East Coast, and South America.
The airline has published information for customers facing potential cancellations, including rebooking options and a flexibility plan for those who want to change their travel dates. Passengers are encouraged to monitor flight statuses and update their contact information.
Transat AT confirmed that negotiations are ongoing, with the ultimate goal of reaching a deal to avoid a complete shutdown.
