MONTREAL, Jan. 6, 2026 /CNW/ – Air Transat announced today that its pilots have voted in favour of the tentative agreement presented by their union, thereby ratifying the new collective agreement. It covers a period of five years and will remain in effect until April 2030.
“We are pleased with the favourable vote, which ratifies the comprehensive overhaul of our pilots’ collective agreement,” said Annick Guérard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Transat. “This agreement, beneficial for both parties, acknowledges the progress needed to catch up to the industry and the contribution of our pilots. It also incorporates major improvements in efficiency and productivity, enabling us to continue our growth strategy. We also want to thank our customers for their loyalty and trust despite this brief period of uncertainty.”
About Air Transat Founded in Montreal in 1987, Air Transat is a leading travel brand voted 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the Skytrax World Airline Awards. Its program offers access to international destinations, mainly in Europe, the Caribbean, the east coast of the United States, South America and North Africa. Air Transat is recognized for its excellent customer service. Its fleet includes some of the most energy-efficient aircraft in their category. Based in Montreal with major hubs in YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ), it has 5,000 employees with a common purpose to bring people closer together. Air Transat is a business unit of Transat A.T. Inc. (TSX: TRZ). www.airtransat.com
MONTREAL, Que.—Air Transat pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), have overwhelmingly ratified a new five-year employment contract, marking the group’s first negotiated agreement in more than a decade. Of the 98 percent of eligible pilots who cast ballots, 91 percent voted in favour of the agreement, which now improves their competitive position within the Canadian airline industry and establishes a stronger foundation going forward.
“Our pilots came together with professionalism and purpose to secure an agreement that reflects who we are and the essential role we play in our airline’s success,” said Capt. Bradley Small, chair of the Air Transat ALPA Master Executive Council. “While it was unfortunate that this level of pressure was required, it was our unity that ultimately delivered results.”
The strong turnout reflects pilot engagement and sets the stage for continued collaboration with management. Over the past year, Air Transat pilots demonstrated their resolve through coordinated informational picketing at both Toronto and Montreal bases, the opening of a strike center, and the issuance of a 72-hour strike notice, backed by an overwhelming strike mandate. The deal was reached less than 12 hours before a potential strike, highlighting the effectiveness of the pilots’ solidarity.
“For years, Air Transat pilots have gone above and beyond through industry uncertainty and other challenges no one could have predicted,” Small continued. “Through dedication, professionalism, and an unwavering commitment to safety, our pilots helped carry this airline forward. This agreement recognizes that contribution and the value pilots bring every day.”
The new agreement is a five-year deal backdated to May 1, 2025, and will expire on April 30, 2030.
Founded in 1931, ALPA is the largest airline pilot union in the world and represents more than 80,000 pilots at 42 U.S. and Canadian airlines, including 725 Air Transat pilots.
An expanded Summer 2026 program: nine new routes, annualized services and increased frequencies on key routes
MONTREAL, Dec. 18, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Transat, voted the World’s Best Leisure Airline at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, today announced the launch of a new non-stop service between Toronto and Tirana, Albania. This route, part of the many additions to the carrier’s Summer 2026 program, will be operated once weekly starting June 18, using an Airbus A330.
New for Summer 2026 (CNW Group/Transat A.T. Inc.)
“Albania is fast becoming a standout destination on the European travel map, and we are proud to be the first airline to serve it directly from North America,” said Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer. “With nine new routes, the annualization of several services and increased frequencies on our flagship routes, our Summer 2026 program is the most extensive we have ever offered. It is part of a network strategy designed to maximize fleet utilization, support steady and profitable growth, and diversify our revenue streams, all the while giving our travellers more choice, flexibility and access to inspiring new destinations.”
In addition to the introduction of Tirana, Air Transat will roll out a significantly enhanced Summer 2026 program, marked by the launch of new routes, the conversion of several seasonal services to year-round operations, and increased frequencies on strategic routes.
Strengthening services from Quebec City
Air Transat will also continue its growth at Quebec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) with the launch of a new non-stop service to Nantes (NTE) for Summer 2026. This route will be operated once weekly on Tuesdays from June 2 to October 20, 2026, using an Airbus A321LR.
This addition is part of a substantial reinforcement of Air Transat’s offering from Québec City, including an additional frequency to Paris (CDG), bringing the service to up to six weekly flights at the height of the season; the launch of the new Quebec City–Marseille (MRS) route as of Summer 2026; and the annualization of the Quebec City–Fort-de-France (FDF) service, whose inaugural flight took place on December 14.
“Québec holds a very special place in Air Transat’s history and identity,” added Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer. “This year’s additions from Jean Lesage International Airport reflect our commitment to make thoughtful, long-term investments where demand from Quebec travellers is strong. It is a concrete way for us, as a homegrown airline, to continue growing alongside the region, in step with its travellers.”
New Routes for Summer 2026
Route
Details*
Toronto (YYZ) – Accra (ACC)
2 flights/week, starting June 17, 2026
Toronto (YYZ) – Tirana (TIA)
1 flight/week, starting June 18, 2026
Montreal (YUL) – Agadir (AGA)
1 flight/week, starting June 12, 2026
Montreal (YUL) – Dakar (DSS)
2 flights/week, starting June 17, 2026
Montreal (YUL) – Reykjavik (KEF)
2 flights/week, starting June 16, 2026
Quebec City (YQB) – Marseille (MRS)
1 flight/week, starting May 21, 2026
Montreal (YUL) – Ottawa (YOW)
3 flights/week, starting May 15, 2026
Ottawa (YOW) – London Gatwick (LGW)
3 flights/week, starting May 15, 2026
Quebec City (YQB) – Nantes (NTE)
1 flight/week, starting June 2, 2026
*Number of frequencies at the height of the season.
Annualization of routes to the South from Montréal, Québec City and Toronto
Route
Details
Toronto (YYZ) – Cartagena (CTG) – Medellín (MDE)
1 flight/week
Montreal (YUL) – Cartagena (CTG) – Medellin (MDE)*
1 flight/week
Montreal (YUL) – Guadalajara (GDL)
Extended until June 27
Montreal (YUL) – Pointe-à-Pitre (PTP)
2 flights/week
Montreal (YUL) – San José (SJO)
2 flights/week
Quebec City (YQB) – Fort-de-France (FDF)
1 flight/week
*New route
Increased frequencies on key routes
Routes
Details*
Toronto (YYZ) – Berlin (BER)
3 flights/week (+1)
Toronto (YYZ) – Cancun (CUN)
9 flights/week (+2)
Toronto (YYZ) – Faro (FAO)
3 flights/week (+1)
Toronto (YYZ) – Istanbul (IST)
3 flights/week (+1)
Toronto (YYZ) – Lima (LIM)
3 flights/week (+1)
Toronto (YYZ) – Venice (VCE)
3 flights/week (+1)
Montreal (YUL) – Bordeaux (BOD)
6 flights/week (+1)
Montreal (YUL) – Bruxelles (BRU)
5 flights/week (+1)
Montreal (YUL) – Fort-de-France (FDF)
2 flights/week (+1)
Montreal (YUL) – Madrid (MAD)
5 flights/week (+1)
Montreal (YUL) – Valencia (VLC)
2 flights/week (+1)
Quebec City (YQB) – Paris (CDG)
6 flights/week (+1)
*Number of frequencies at the height of the season and variations compared with the previous year.
In addition, Air Transat’s network connectivity continues to improve, notably through its partnerships with Porter Airlines, Turkish Airlines and GOL Airlines. Each of these collaborations expands connecting opportunities across Air Transat’s network – whether with Porter for domestic and transborder services, with Turkish Airlines for access to a wide range of destinations via Istanbul, or with GOL to extend the reach of its offering in Brazil and South America.
About Air Transat Founded in Montreal in 1987, Air Transat is a leading travel brand voted 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the Skytrax World Airline Awards. Its program offers access to international destinations, mainly in Europe, the Caribbean, the east coast of the United States, South America and North Africa. Air Transat is recognized for its excellent customer service. Its fleet includes some of the most energy-efficient aircraft in their category. Based in Montreal with major hubs in YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ), it has 5,000 employees with a common purpose to bring people closer together. Air Transat is a business unit of Transat A.T. Inc. www.airtransat.com
Revenues of $3,398.5 million, up 3.5% from $3,283.8 million for fiscal 2024
Adjusted EBITDA of $271.0 million, compared to $203.2 million last year
Net income of $241.9 million ($6.06 per share), compared to a net loss of $114.0 million ($2.94 per share) in 2024
Negative free cash flowof $45.0 million, compared to negative $122.1 million last year
Elevation Program initiatives are expected to contribute $100M in adjusted EBITDA by mid-2026, in line with the objective
Conclusion of the LEEFF debt restructuring, reducing the amount owed under the program from $762.2 million as of the second-quarter to $350.0 million as at October 31, 2025
Fourth-quarter highlights:
Revenues of $771.6 million, down 2.2% from $788.8 million last year
Adjusted EBITDA of $71.4 million, compared to $128.4 million last year
Net loss of $12.5 million ($0.31 per share), versus net income of $41.2 million ($1.05 per share) last year
Negative free cash flow of $194.2 million, compared to negative $102.2 million last year
Cash and cash equivalents of $164.9 million as at October 31, 2025
MONTRÉAL, Dec. 18, 2025 /CNW/ – Transat A.T. Inc. today reported its fourth quarter 2025 financial results.
“Transat posted all-time record adjusted EBITDA in fiscal 2025. Operationally, we established key building blocks to generate growth momentum through the deployment of high-potential routes, the rigorous execution of our Elevation Program, and the refinancing of our government debt. As for financial performance, adjusted EBITDA grew 33% to $271 million on revenues of $3.4 billion, despite a volatile macro-economic environment and persistent Pratt & Whitney engine issues. As expected, fourth quarter revenues declined slightly as substantially lower year-end compensation from Pratt & Whitney overshadowed underlying revenue growth driven by higher yields. We have delivered on the objectives set for fiscal 2025 and continue to make progress toward the full execution of our business plan. Finally, the tentative agreement reached with our pilots’ union allows us to focus on meeting solid customer demand for leisure travel. In addition, all collective agreements that had expired since 2023 have now been successfully renegotiated for a period extending at least through 2027,” said Annick Guérard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Transat.
“We are optimistic about accelerating our growth trajectory in 2026. Targeted network expansion across destinations in Africa, Europe and South America, combined with fewer grounded aircraft and network optimization, should result in increased capacity for 2026. In addition, we expect to derive the full impact from our Elevation Program through revamped cost and revenue management practices,” added Ms. Guérard.
“In terms of profitability, despite the impact of certain unfavorable provisions in the fourth-quarter, Transat still delivered solid adjusted EBITDA growth for the year. On the refinancing front, the successful restructuring of our government debt proved to be a key milestone in 2025. This significant debt reduction enables us to pursue growth initiatives and complete the implementation of our optimization program. On top of these benefits, interest expenses will decrease substantially in the upcoming year while debt maturity dates have been extended until 2035. Ultimately, we can now focus on executing our strategy to create long-term value for our shareholders,” said Jean-François Pruneau, Chief Financial Officer of Transat.
Fiscal year results
For the year ended October 31, 2025, revenues reached $3,398.5 million, up 3.5% from $3,283.8 million in the corresponding period a year ago. The variation is attributable to a 2.3% increase in yield and a 0.2% increase in traffic. Network-wide capacity increased by 0.8% compared to the same period in 2024.
For the year, adjusted EBITDA totaled $271.0 million, compared with $203.2 million for fiscal 2024. The increase was mainly attributable to revenue growth, productivity gains and lower fuel prices by 9.8%, compared with fiscal 2024.
Fourth-quarter results
For the quarter ended October 31, 2025, revenues reached $771.6 million, down 2.2% from $788.8 million in the corresponding period last year. This decrease was attributable to the financial compensation received from the original equipment manufacturer of the GTF engines that was $28.2 million lower than in the fourth quarter of 2024. Excluding the impact of this lower compensation, revenues increased by 1.5%. Traffic, expressed in revenue-passenger-miles (RPM), decreased by 2.0%, resulting from a capacity reduction of 1.8% compared to the corresponding period last year. These factors were partially offset by a 3.3% increase in airline unit revenues (yield).
Adjusted EBITDA amounted to $71.4 million, compared with $128.4 million in 2024. This variation resulted from lower revenues, as well as from higher aircraft maintenance costs and salaries and employee benefits.
Cash flow and financial position
Cash flows related to operating activities used $114.5 million during the fourth quarter of 2025, compared with a cash usage of $108.1 million for the same period last year, as lower profitability was partially offset by an increase in non-cash working capital balances. For the 2025 fiscal year, cash flows related to operating activities generated $157.0 million, compared to a cash generation of $94.7 million in fiscal 2024.
After accounting for investing activities and repayment of lease liabilities, free cash flow was negative $194.2 million during the quarter, compared with negative $102.2 million for the corresponding period last year. The difference primarily reflects that, during the same quarter last year, the company entered into sale-leaseback transactions involving three Pratt & Whitney GTF engines for a total of $92.1 million. For fiscal 2025, free cash flow was negative $45.0 million, compared to negative $122.1 million in fiscal 2024.
As at October 31, 2025, cash and cash equivalents stood at $164.9 million, compared to $260.3 million as at October 31, 2024. Cash and cash equivalents in trust or otherwise reserved mainly resulting from travel package bookings totaled $465.6 million as at October 31, 2025, compared with $484.9 million as at October 31, 2024. Customers deposits for future travel totaled $823.3 million as at October 31, 2025, compared to $781.2 million as at October 31, 2024.
Long-term debt and deferred government grant totaled $400.0 million as at October 31, 2025, compared to $803.1 million as at October 31, 2024. This decrease is mainly attributable to the reduction in long-term debt following the Corporation’s debt restructuring, including the full repayment of the $41.4 million principal balance of the secured LEEFF financing. During fiscal 2025, the Corporation also made a $13.7 million mandatory principal prepayment on its Unsecured debenture – LEEFF and redeemed 6,243,026 Series 4 Preferred Shares for $16.3 million. The Corporation drew down $30.0 million under its Subordinated working capital facility – LEEFF.
Reflecting these transactions, the long-term debt and deferred government grant net of cash and cash equivalents stood at $235.1 million, down from $542.7 million as at October 31, 2024.
About Transat
Founded in Montreal in 1987, Transat has achieved worldwide recognition as a provider of leisure travel particularly as an airline under the Air Transat brand. Voted World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, it flies to international destinations. By renewing its fleet with the most energy-efficient aircraft in their category, it is committed to a healthier environment, knowing that this is essential to its operations and the destinations it serves. Based in Montreal, Transat has nearly 5,000 employees with a common purpose to bring people closer together
TORONTO, Dec. 17, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Transat, voted the 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax, operated its inaugural flights to Istanbul, Türkiye (IST) and Georgetown, Guyana (GEO) on December 16, introducing two new routes from Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and further strengthening its network from this key hub. Flight TS164 to Georgetown departed in the early evening, followed later that night by Flight TS214 to Istanbul.
“Introducing Istanbul and Georgetown from Toronto is a strategic step in diversifying our offer while serving travellers flying to visit friends and family,” said Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer. “Istanbul unlocks a world of onward possibilities through our partnership with Turkish Airlines, and Georgetown strengthens ties with Canada’s Guyanese community. Together, these routes invite discovery and deliver the seamless comfort that defines Air Transat.”
“We are proud to welcome Air Transat’s continued growth at Toronto Pearson with new non-stop flights to Istanbul and Georgetown,” said Kurush Minocher, Chief Commercial Officer, Toronto Pearson. “These services make it easier for passengers to reach new destinations, explore opportunities for leisure and business, and strengthen connections around the world – while reinforcing Toronto Pearson’s role as a leading global hub.”
The new Toronto–Istanbul route offers year-round service with flights on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and an additional Thursday flight from May 2026. Travellers gain easy access to Istanbul and, thanks to new codeshare and interline agreements with Turkish Airlines, can connect to destinations across Türkiye, Asia, and beyond.
“This is another key milestone in our exciting journey to both enhance and maintain our position as a world-leading global aviation and transit hub. Air Transat’s arrival into Istanbul today further strengthens our global connectivity and strategic connections with the Americas. The new route will enhance prospects for both tourism and trade between Turkey and Canada, whilst reinforcing Istanbul’s growing role in the international aviation ecosystem. We’re delighted to welcome Air Transat to our network and believe that together we will create exciting new opportunities for exchange and growth between North America, Europe and the Middle East,” said Chief Commercial Officer Server Aydın, iGA Istanbul Airport.
The new Toronto–Georgetown service has already been extended to May 29, 2026, and operates twice weekly on Tuesdays and Fridays. Air Transat serves this route with its Airbus A321LR, an aircraft recognized for its efficiency and comfort. This ensures travellers enjoy a smooth journey to Guyana and its natural beauty.
“The addition of this service reflects the deliberate, long-term approach being taken to increase Guyana’s airlift,” said Mr. Sanjeev Datadin, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA). “At the board level, we remain focused on building strong airline partnerships, ensuring sound governance, and supporting investments that position CJIA to meet future demand while maintaining international standards.”
These new routes also benefit from seamless connections through Air Transat’s joint venture with Porter Airlines. This makes it easier for travellers from cities across Canada, including those from Western Canada, Ottawa, Montreal, and the Maritimes, to connect through Toronto and reach these destinations.
About Air Transat
Founded in Montreal in 1987, Air Transat is a leading travel brand voted 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the Skytrax World Airline Awards. Its program offers access to international destinations, mainly in Europe, the Caribbean, the east coast of the United States, South America and North Africa. Air Transat is recognized for its excellent customer service. Its fleet includes some of the most energy-efficient aircraft in their category. Based in Montreal with major hubs in YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ), it has 5,000 employees with a common purpose to bring people closer together. Air Transat is a business unit of Transat A.T. Inc. (TSX: TRZ). www.airtransat.com
MONTREAL, Dec. 15, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Transat, named 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax for the seventh time, marked an exciting milestone on December 13 with the launch of its first-ever non-stop flight between YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Guadalajara International Airport (GDL). The inaugural TS336 flight marked the start of this new service.
The new service that runs twice weekly – Thursdays and Saturdays – is now offered until June 27, 2026. This is Air Transat’s sixth Mexican destination, reinforcing its status as Montreal’s top carrier to the South.
Additionally, on December 14, Air Transat operated its first non-stop flight between Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) and Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport (FDF). This inaugural service, designated TS696, marks the start of a year-round route that gives travellers from Quebec City a convenient gateway to the French Antilles.
“The addition of Guadalajara from Montreal and Fort-de-France from Quebec City reflects our commitment to offering travellers even more ways to explore vibrant destinations,” said Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer. “These new routes not only enrich our network but also create meaningful connections – whether it’s immersing in Mexico’s cultural heart, connecting our Mexican community in Quebec, or enjoying Martinique’s unique charm – all with the convenience and comfort Air Transat is known for.”
Both new routes are operated using the Airbus A321LR, an aircraft recognized for its efficiency and passenger comfort. The cabin design combines ergonomic seating with a modern inflight entertainment system, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. Travellers can choose between Economy and Club Class, both of which offer Air Transat’s signature service and attention to detail.
Quotes from Air Transat’s Partners
For the inaugural flight from Montreal to Guadalajara:
Amélie Dionne, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Bas-Saint-Laurent and Gaspésie-Îles-de-la-Madeleine Regions “Our government is proud to support the new non-stop Montréal–Guadalajara route, made possible through the Program for the development of direct air links to Quebec. This initiative reflects our commitment to improving the accessibility of our territory while enhancing Quebec’s tourism offering. I congratulate Air Transat and its teams on achieving this important milestone.”
Christopher Skeete, Minister of International Relations and La Francophonie, Minister responsible for Relations with English-speaking Québecers, Minister responsible for the Fight against Racism and Minister responsible for the Laval Region “This new direct flight between Montréal and Guadalajara solidifies the privileged relationship that Québec has maintained with the State of Jalisco for the past twenty years. The opportunities that bring this new connection for our Québec entrepreneurs, artists, and researchers are immense. On one hand, it will open the doors to one of Mexico’s largest tourism industries, and on the other, it will facilitate breaking into a new market, especially Guadalajara’s one, which is experiencing a strong growth in the technology and creative industries sectors. Our local team at the Québec Government Office in Mexico is ready to provide advice or logistical support in that matter.”
Michelle Fridman, Secretary of Tourism of Jalisco “It is important to emphasize what the opening of an additional flight from Canada represents for tourism in Jalisco, as we have recorded a notable increase in air traffic from January to October 2025, with 5,365 operations between Canada and Jalisco, representing an 8% increase compared to 2024. Of these, 562 operations correspond specifically to the route between Canada and Guadalajara, with an impressive growth of 368% compared to the previous year. Thus, the opening of this new direct route from Guadalajara to Montreal, starting on December 13 and operated by a renowned airline like Air Transat, boosts the arrival of more tourists to the state and aligns with our expansion plans, generating optimal travel conditions for the Canadian and Jalisco markets. This constitutes an excellent opportunity to strengthen our ties and reaffirm an essential aspect: in Jalisco, we warmly welcome Canadian travellers.”
Karl Brochu, Vice President, Airport Operations and Air Services Development, ADM “ADM Aéroports de Montréal is pleased to welcome this new route to Guadalajara offered by our partner, Air Transat, which will allow travellers to discover a vibrant tourist destination with a rich culture. This new route will benefit all travellers eager for memorable experiences and sunshine. We would like to thank all the Air Transat teams who worked tirelessly to develop this connection.”
Cryshtian Amador Lizardi, Airport Director, Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) “Guadalajara International Airport continues to strengthen its position as a regional hub for Canadian travellers through new connections like this important route to Montreal. We are proud to welcome Air Transat to our growing commercial offering, at an airport that served more than 17.8 million passengers in 2024 and is currently undergoing major infrastructure upgrades that will elevate the travel experience for all passengers.”
Gustavo Staufert, Executive Director of the Guadalajara Convention & Visitors Bureau “The launch of the Montreal–Guadalajara route with Air Transat marks a historic moment for our destination, bringing together two vibrant and deeply cultural cities. It strengthens our traffic and friendship with Canada and creates a bridge that will allow more Canadian visitors to discover and fall in love with everything Guadalajara has to offer. We are confident that this new connection will significantly boost tourism revenue and strengthen the sector in our city. Congratulations on this excellent news, which we celebrate with great enthusiasm.”
For the inaugural flight from Quebec City to Fort-de-France:
Stéphane Poirier, President and CEO, Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) “We are delighted to see Air Transat once again enhancing its winter offering from Québec City with the addition of Martinique. This iconic Caribbean destination represents a new opportunity for travellers to escape to warmer climes and exceptional landscapes. Season after season, Air Transat demonstrates its commitment to offering a varied and attractive schedule from Québec City, and we are confident that this new route will win the hearts of our passengers.”
Bénédicte di Geronimo, President, Martinique Tourism Authority “The launch of this new direct route from Quebec City is fantastic news for Martinique. It brings our two destinations closer together and gives Quebec travellers easier, faster, and more inspiring access to our landscapes, culture, and art de vivre. This route embodies new opportunities for escape, discovery, and connection. We are delighted to welcome even more visitors from Quebec and share with them all that our island has to offer.”
About Air Transat Founded in Montreal in 1987, Air Transat is a leading travel brand voted 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the Skytrax World Airline Awards. Its program offers access to international destinations, mainly in Europe, the Caribbean, the east coast of the United States, South America and North Africa. Air Transat is recognized for its excellent customer service. Its fleet includes some of the most energy-efficient aircraft in their category. Based in Montreal with major hubs in YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ), it has 5,000 employees with a common purpose to bring people closer together. Air Transat is a business unit of Transat A.T. Inc. airtransat.com
MONTREAL, Dec. 9, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Transat has reached a tentative agreement with the union representing its pilots for the renewal of their collective agreement. This agreement, which marks an important milestone in the process, lifts the risk of a strike and now allows its customers to travel with peace of mind. It will be submitted for ratification by the union members in the coming days.
“We are pleased to have finally reached a tentative agreement with the union representing our pilots, marking a complete overhaul of their collective agreement. We would have greatly preferred to avoid the threat of a strike, which forced us to modify our operations. We are aware that this period has created significant uncertainty, and we extend our sincerest apologies to our customers whose flights were disrupted in recent days. Our priority now is to quickly restore our operations and deliver on our commitment to provide service that meets our standards,” said Annick Guérard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Transat.
About Air Transat Founded in Montreal in 1987, Air Transat is a leading travel brand voted 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the Skytrax World Airline Awards. Its program offers access to international destinations, mainly in Europe, the Caribbean, the east coast of the United States, South America and North Africa. Air Transat is recognized for its excellent customer service. Its fleet includes some of the most energy-efficient aircraft in their category. Based in Montreal with major hubs in YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ), it has 5,000 employees with a common purpose to bring people closer together. Air Transat is a business unit of Transat A.T. Inc. (TSX: TRZ). www.airtransat.com
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.
MONTREAL, P.Q.—Air Transat pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), voted overwhelmingly to strike if continuing negotiations with Air Transat management fail to produce a modern contract.
Of the 98 percent of eligible pilots who could vote, 99 percent voted in favour of a strike, if necessary. This result 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 December 10.
“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 percent 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, Air Transat pilots are prepared for any outcome. The pilots’ goals are to secure job security and to improve 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 November 18 and are currently in a 21-day cooling-off period, ending December 7, after which the union can file a 72-hour strike notice or management can impose a lockout.
Founded in 1931, ALPA is the world’s largest pilot union, representing more than 80,000 pilots at 43 airlines in the United States and Canada.
MONTREAL, Dec. 1, 2025 /CNW/ – Air Transat, voted World’s Best Leisure Airline in 2025 by Skytrax, is pleased to announce a new interline partnership with GOL Airlines, one of Brazil’s largest airlines. This partnership will significantly expand Air Transat’s network by providing convenient onward connections across Brazil and to key destinations throughout South America.
Thanks to this new agreement, travellers flying with Air Transat to Rio de Janeiro Galeão International Airport (GIG) will be able to seamlessly connect to GOL’s extensive network of 65 domestic and 17 international destinations, including major cities such as Sao Paulo, Porto Alegre, Recife, Salvador et Belo Horizonte.
“We are thrilled to partner with GOL to make it easier than ever for Canadians to explore Brazil and beyond,” said Sebastian Ponce, Chief Revenue Officer at Transat. “This partnership strengthens our presence in South America and expands our network in a way that perfectly complements our new non-stop service to Rio de Janeiro.”
This launch comes as Air Transat prepares to inaugurate its first-ever non-stop flights to Rio de Janeiro:
From Toronto (YYZ): starting February 4, 2026, operating twice weekly
From Montreal (YUL): starting February 5, 2026, operating once weekly
The partnership is effective immediately, and flights will be available for booking in the coming days.
About Air Transat Founded in Montreal 38 years ago, Air Transat is a leading travel brand voted 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by passengers at the Skytrax World Airline Awards. Its program offers access to international destinations, mainly in Europe, the Caribbean, the east coast of the United States, South America and North Africa. Air Transat is recognized for its excellent customer service. Its fleet includes some of the most energy-efficient aircraft in their category. Based in Montreal with major hubs in YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport and Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ), it has 5,000 employees with a common purpose to bring people closer together. Air Transat is a business unit of Transat A.T. Inc. (TSX: TRZ). www.airtransat.com
About GOL Airlines GOL, Brazil’s most on-time airline, is part of the Abra Group and, since its founding in 2001, has remained committed to its purpose of “Being the First for Everyone,” democratizing access to air travel with smart solutions that delight more than 30 million customers each year. The Company has a team of 15,000 professionals dedicated to Safety — GOL’s number one value — and operates a standardized fleet of 143 Boeing 737 aircraft. Through alliances with Avianca, American Airlines, and Air France-KLM, GOL offers its passengers more than 60 codeshare and interline agreements, providing greater convenience and seamless connections to any destination served by these partners. Smiles, the largest loyalty program in the country offering a complete travel platform, and GOLLOG, currently the largest regular cargo operation in Brazil, are also part of GOL’s ecosystem.
