Air Transat pilots’ union members have overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike, as announced on Wednesday. The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) clarified that while this vote grants the union’s leadership the power to declare a strike starting from December 10, it does not serve as an immediate strike notice.
Air Transat emphasized that this development is a routine part of the collective bargaining process and reassured that operations are running normally. The company stated its commitment to negotiating a collective agreement that aligns with market conditions, company requirements, and acknowledges the pilots’ contributions. Air Transat expressed confidence in reaching an agreement to prevent any disruptions to customers’ travel plans.
Negotiations between ALPA and the airline commenced in January, three months before the expiration of the existing collective agreement. The union aims to secure a new agreement that safeguards job security and enhances working conditions, compensation, and overall quality of life for its members. Over 99% of the pilots who participated in the ballot voted in favor of striking if necessary, according to the union.
Following the end of conciliation on November 18, the two parties are currently in a 21-day cooling-off period set to conclude on December 10, as per the union’s statement. Bradley Small, chair of the Air Transat ALPA master executive council, highlighted the pilots’ determination for a contract that reflects current industry standards during a press release.
Small emphasized the need for a fair and modern contract, stating that the current agreement for Air Transat pilots lags behind those of WestJet and Air Canada. Notably, Air Canada pilots recently ratified a four-year collective agreement with a cumulative wage increase of approximately 42%, while WestJet pilots secured a 24% pay raise over four years in 2023, setting a new benchmark for labor gains in the aviation sector.
Industry expert Karl Moore, an associate professor at McGill University, noted that the vote authorizing a strike strategically positions the pilots during negotiations, particularly during the busy holiday season when airlines experience peak revenue. Moore anticipates that Air Transat will prioritize reaching a resolution to avoid disruptions during this critical period.
Although the possibility of a strike looms, Moore suggested that both parties have a mutual interest in avoiding such an outcome due to the challenges it would pose for pilots and their families. He also mentioned the potential intervention of the federal government through back-to-work legislation, given the economic implications and disruptions to travel that a strike could cause.