While negotiations continue, Air Transat is gradually winding down operations ahead of the possible strike date, Dec. 10.

Air Transat has set up a Strike Notice page on its site, found here, with a complete list of Frequently Asked Questions. Air Transat posted the update at 3:45 a.m. ET Dec. 7.

“Flight cancellations will begin progressively on Dec. 8, with a complete suspension by Dec. 9. The company deeply regrets the impact this disruption will have on travellers during this busy period,” said Air Transat.

Here is Air Transat’s statement …

“The union representing our pilots has informed Air Transat of a strike notice on December 7, which may be exercised within 72 hours. This means the strike could officially begin on December 10, and our flight operations will be disrupted until an agreement is reached.

“This notice compels us to implement an action plan that includes the gradual and orderly shutdown of our operations over the next three days.

“We understand that this situation may cause uncertainty and concern. Our priority is to remain transparent, to support you, and to answer any questions you may have.

“Negotiations are ongoing, and our goal remains to reach an agreement so we can maintain our flights as much as possible and minimize disruptions for you.”

The pilots’ union also issued a statement.

“Air Transat pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), today officially set the stage for a potential strike later this week. In a notice to airline management, required under the Canada Labour Code, ALPA issued a 72-hour strike notice, which could begin as early as 3 a.m. ET on Wednesday, December 10.

“There is still time to avoid a strike but unless significant progress is made at the bargaining table, we will strike if that’s what it takes to achieve a modern contract,” said Capt. Bradley Small, Chair of the Air Transat Master Executive Council (MEC).

Click here for Air Transat’s Strike Notice page with the complete list of FAQs.

TICO Update

TICO is sharing information for consumers who booked travel services with Transat Tours Canada Inc., operating as Transat Holidays, and Transat Distribution Canada Inc., operating as Transat Travel (TICO-registered tour operators) either directly or through a TICO-registered travel retailer (including TICO-registered online booking websites).

“Should a labour disruption begin with flight cancellations, the below regulation will apply,” says TICO.

For travel packages

“Under Ontario law, if a travel retailer or tour operator acquires rights to travel services for resale to other registrants or consumers and is unable to provide the travel services purchased due to the failure of a supplier(s) to provide the service (e.g., flight to destination), then the consumer must be offered THEIR CHOICE of …

• A refund;
• Comparable alternate travel services acceptable to the customer; or
• A voucher or similar document that is acceptable to the customer for future redemption towards travel services.

“Where a consumer prefers a full refund for a travel package sold, or otherwise provided, by Transat, Ontario’s consumer protections laws require a refund be provided within a reasonable timeframe.”

TICO CEO Richard Smart said: “The possibility of travel disruptions is challenging on both travellers and for the travel advisors working hard to support them. Ontario’s travel laws ensure consumers are given practical options when an element of their travel package can’t be delivered, providing added clarity and peace of mind.”

For air-only bookings

TICO says: “For potential compensation and regulations for air-only cancellations and delays, advisors and passengers should refer to the Canadian Transportation Agency’s Air Passenger Protection Regulations.”

Source: Travelweek