The pilots of Air Transat have officially announced a strike notice effective from December 10. This development comes shortly after a similar strike at Air Canada, raising concerns among travelers. According to the airline, flight cancellations will start on December 8, with a complete shutdown expected on December 9.
Travelers Express Concerns Over Upcoming Strike
Many travelers are voicing their worries as the potential strike, referred to as a “nightmare” by passengers, looms. Eric Boissonneault, Vice President of the Travel Agents Association of Quebec, highlighted the ongoing crisis management: “Currently, flights are operating as scheduled, but concerns grow for those returning mid-week.”
Passengers like Christine Samuel are particularly anxious. Having already experienced disruptions during Air Canada’s strike, she fears the upcoming situation. Richard Adam faces the prospect of paying $4,400 to return from Malaga, Spain, with Air Canada, despite initially booking with Air Transat for just $900.
Passenger Options and Credits Available
For travelers scheduled to fly with Air Transat by December 12, cancellation is possible now through a specific form to receive a credit valid for 12 months. Those traveling on December 13 or later must adhere to standard modification or cancellation policies.
- Flights before December 12 can be canceled for a travel credit.
- Standard policies apply for those traveling on or after December 13.
- Travelers booking through agents should consult them directly.
If a flight is canceled, passengers will be offered a rebooking on the next available flight within 48 hours. They also have the option to choose a refund. Furthermore, Air Transat will cover additional costs for travelers booked on packages who are already at their destinations.
Negotiations Underway Amid Strike Threat
Despite the strike notice, Mehran Ebrahimi, a professor at the University of Quebec in Montreal, believes the likelihood of a strike is low. He suggests that the costs incurred by a strike may outweigh the benefits of salary increases. The current collective agreement expired in April and is being negotiated.
According to the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), pilots are seeking improved salaries and working conditions. Commander Bradley Small, President of Air Transat’s Executives Council, urged that significant progress needs to be made in negotiations to prevent a walkout.
Air Transat’s Position
Air Transat claims to have presented an offer that includes a 59% salary increase over five years, along with significant improvements in working conditions. The airline regards the union’s demands as unreasonable, emphasizing the consequences of their actions.
Mediation Efforts
Pierre Karl Péladeau, representing Financière Outremont Inc., which holds nearly 10% of Transat’s shares, has offered to mediate discussions between the pilots and management. He stressed the urgency of resolving the collective agreement to prevent detrimental impacts on the travel operator.
The situation remains fluid as both parties continue negotiations, with the hope of finding a resolution before potential strike action occurs.
