by Jen Mallia
Last updated: 2:55 PM ET, Tue January 6, 2026
An overwhelming majority of Air Transat pilots have voted in favour of a new contract. In a statement from the Air Line Pilots Association Int’l (ALPA), the union representing the pilots, was pleased to report 91 percent of voters were willing to adopt the agreement, which it says will improve their competitive position within the Canadian airline industry and establish a stronger foundation going forward. Bloomberg reports the agreement includes raises of more than 50 percent for most pilots over the course of the contract, which Transat CEO Annick Guérard says acknowledges the progress that was needed to catch up to the industry.
“For years, Air Transat pilots have gone above and beyond through industry uncertainty and other challenges no one could have predicted,” said Capt. Bradley Small, chair of the Air Transat ALPA Master Executive Council. “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.”
Ninety-eight percent of pilots who were eligible to vote turned in ballots, a strong turnout which ALPA says indicates a high level of engagement and sets the stage for continued collaboration with management.
Leading up to this vote, Air Transat pilots had staged informational pickets at both Toronto and Montreal bases and opened a strike center, going so far as to issue a 72-hour strike notice which was backed by an overwhelming strike mandate.
The strike was narrowly averted, less than 12 hours before the potential strike was to begin, when this deal was struck.
“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,” said Small. “While it was unfortunate that this level of pressure was required, it was our unity that ultimately delivered results.”
The new agreement is a five-year deal backdated to May 1, 2025, and will expire on April 30, 2030.
A statement from Air Transat reads, “We would like to thank our customers for their loyalty and trust despite this brief period of uncertainty.
Any risk of an Air Transat pilot strike is completely eliminated, allowing you to travel with peace of mind.”
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