The pilots of Air Transat are preparing for a potential strike starting Wednesday, December 10. The union representing these pilots has submitted a strike notice, which could lead to flight cancellations as early as December 8.
Upcoming Air Transat Pilots Strike
Air Transat has announced that as negotiations continue, flight operations will face disruptions. The airline warns that if a resolution is not reached, flights will be affected until an agreement is finalized.
Impact on Passengers
For passengers with flights scheduled in the coming days, the situation is concerning. Travelers can cancel their bookings without penalty until December 12, and Air Transat will provide a credit valid for 12 months.
- Passengers traveling after December 12 will follow regular cancellation policies.
- Those who booked through travel agencies are advised to contact their agents directly.
- If a flight is canceled, Air Transat will offer a new ticket on the next available flight or provide a full refund.
Statements from Air Transat and Experts
Mehran Ebrahimi, an aviation expert at the University of Quebec in Montreal, believes that a strike is unlikely. He argues that the costs associated with a strike would outweigh the benefits of salary increases for pilots. Ebrahimi asserts that a strike would be detrimental to Air Transat’s financial stability.
Currently, the pilots seek better salaries and working conditions, aiming for standards consistent with industry norms. Commanders from the pilots’ union express that no one desires to strike, but the situation is pressing. The latest collective agreement expired in April and has been extended twice since its initial signing in 2015.
Negotiations Continuing
Air Transat claims to have presented a proposal that includes a 59% salary increase over five years. However, the airline criticizes the union’s demands as unreasonable. Both parties continue to negotiate, with Air Transat remaining hopeful for a resolution to avoid labor disruption.
As this situation develops, travelers should stay informed by checking the status of their flights on the Air Transat website. It is crucial to keep abreast of any updates related to potential cancellations due to the pilots’ planned strike.
