Air Transat reports progress in talks with its pilots’ union, despite ongoing disagreement over wage hikes. The airline disclosed its latest proposal to the Air Line Pilots Association, Intl., offering a 59% salary increase spread over five years, coupled with enhancements to working conditions, according to a statement released on Sunday.
However, the union disputes the stated percentage, labeling it as inaccurately high. Capt. Tim Perry, ALPA Canada’s president, expressed skepticism over the 59% figure, indicating that had such an offer been on the table, they would have promptly presented it to their members. Dave Bourdages, Air Transat’s vice-president of flight operations, defended the 59% average, acknowledging variations within the pay scale.
Both parties are engaged in continuous negotiations since January, with pilots potentially striking as early as Wednesday at 3 a.m. ET, following ALPA’s 72-hour strike notice issued on Sunday. Air Transat remains optimistic about reaching a resolution to avoid operational disruptions, emphasizing the need for a reasonable agreement.
While flights scheduled for December 8 will proceed as planned for now, the airline forewarned of a gradual operational shutdown if an agreement is not reached by the following day. The discussions aim to replace the expired 2015 agreement, centering on wage revisions, benefits, work regulations, and job stability. ALPA Canada’s Vice President, Capt. Louis-Éric Mongrain, expressed commitment to achieving an agreement before the strike deadline, highlighting the importance of negotiated deals over arbitration for the benefit of all involved parties.
