Air Transat Pilots ratify new 5-year deal

Air Transat pilots have voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new five-year employment contract — marking the group’s first negotiated agreement in more than a decade.

The Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), which represents Air Transat’s pilots, said that of the 98% of eligible pilots who cast ballots, 91% voted in favour of the agreement, which now improves their competitive position within the Canadian airline industry and establishes a stronger foundation going forward.

Capt. Bradley Small, chair of ALPA’s Air Transat Master Executive Council, said: “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.”

Capt. Small continued: “While it was unfortunate that this level of pressure was required, it was our unity that ultimately delivered results.”

The strong turnout reflects pilot engagement and sets the stage for continued collaboration with management.

Over the past year, Air Transat pilots demonstrated their resolve through coordinated informational picketing at both Toronto and Montreal bases, the opening of a strike center, and the issuance of a 72-hour strike notice, backed by an overwhelming strike mandate.

The deal was reached less than 12 hours before a potential strike, highlighting the effectiveness of the pilots’ solidarity.

Capt. Small said that: “For years, Air Transat pilots have gone above and beyond through industry uncertainty and other challenges no one could have predicted.” And he noted: “Through dedication, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to safety, our pilots helped carry this airline forward. This agreement recognizes that contribution and the value pilots bring every day.”

The new agreement is a five-year deal backdated to May 1, 2025, and will expire on April 30, 2030.