Following news this morning that Air Transat pilots have voted 99% in favour of a strike, the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) has issued an official statement.

The union, which represents Air Transat pilots, says that of the 98% of eligible pilots who could have voted, 99% voted to strike, if necessary. The strike vote provides the Air Transat Master Executive Council (MEC) with the authority to declare a strike when legally permitted, which could be as early as the morning of Dec. 10, 2025.

“This vote sends an undeniable message to Air Transat management: We are unified, resolute and have earned a contract that reflects today’s industry standards, not the standards from 2015,” said Capt. Bradley Small, Air Transat MEC chair. “The 98% participation rate alone demonstrates the depth of frustration among our members, who are tired of flying under a decade-old and outdated collective agreement.”

While this is not an immediate strike notice, ALPA says that Air Transat pilots are prepared for any outcome, with the aim of securing job security and improving working conditions, compensation and quality of life.

“Let us be clear, we do not want to strike. Our goal remains to reach an equitable agreement at the negotiating table,” said Small. “However, after nearly a year of slow bargaining and little progress, we urge management to utilize the remaining time and negotiate seriously to avoid operational and flight disruptions.”

Contract negotiations between Air Transat pilots and the airline began in January 2025. The parties left conciliation on Nov. 18 and are currently in a 21-day cooling-off period, ending Dec. 10, after which the union can file a 72-hour strike notice or management can impose a lockout.

Source: Travelweek