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Tag: Air Transat

  • Premium Kids event at YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport: Nearly 200 People at the 12th Edition

    ADM and Air Transat are partnering to offer families of children with autism spectrum disorder or functional limitations the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the airport process and the experience on board an aircraft

    MONTRÉAL, April 12, 2026 /CNW/ – The 12th annual Premium Kids event at YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, organized by ADM Aéroports de Montréal in partnership with Air Transat, took place in a joyful atmosphere filled with hearty laughter and beaming smiles. This unique day allows children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or functional limitations and their families to familiarize themselves with the airport process and the experience on board an aircraft to ease their apprehension about travelling.

    Participants in the 12th edition of “Enfants en première” at YUL Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (CNW Group/Aéroports de Montréal)
    Participants in the 12th edition of “Enfants en première” at YUL Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (CNW Group/Aéroports de Montréal)

    This year, nearly 200 people participated in the typical airport process, from arrival to security screening, boarding, and the announcement of safety procedures on board the aircraft.

    “ADM is proud to have once again played host to Premium Kids, an event that aligns with our commitment to making the airport experience more inclusive and accessible,” said Jérôme Conraud, ADM’s Vice President Strategy, Planning, and Sustainability. “The children, accompanied by their parents, experienced a realistic introduction to the airport environment in a welcoming setting, which gave them hope that one day they will be able to fly as a family. This activity is very important to ADM, and I would like to thank all the volunteers and partners who made the day such a success.”

    “Initiatives such as Premium Kids, supported by the commitment of our employees and long-standing partners like ADM, play an essential role in easing these families’ apprehensions and guiding them toward a more serene travel experience. As part of our accessibility approach and our commitment to continuous improvement, we have identified critical moments in the travel experience of individuals with functional limitations, one of which is the airport process. This highlights just how important events like Premium Kids are. Air Transat is honoured to support this meaningful initiative year after year,” added Andréan Gagné, Senior Director, Communications, Public Affairs and Corporate Responsibility at Transat.

    In addition to Air Transat, which has been involved since the first edition, several other partners ensure the smooth running of the event: Autisme Montréal; the Giant Steps; Transport Canada; the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA); the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA); GardaWorld; Sûreté du Québec; HMSHost; and the Montréal Airport Marriott In-Terminal Hotel.

    Presented as part of Autism Awareness Month, this initiative is inspired by a similar program, Wings for Autism, launched in 2011 by the Charles River Center in collaboration with the Massachusetts Port Authority (Boston-Logan International Airport). ADM became the first airport authority in Canada to implement such a program at YUL in 2013.

    About ADM Aéroports de Montréal
    ADM Aéroports de Montréal is the airport authority for the Greater Montréal area responsible for the management, operation and development of YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport, certified 4-stars under the Skytrax World Airport Star Rating program, and YMX International Aerocity of Mirabel.

    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, 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

  • Shareholders Overwhelmingly Vote to Elect Transat’s Full Slate of Eight Directors

    Shareholders voted over 90% in support of Transat’s resolutions

    MONTREAL, March 10, 2026 /CNW/ – Transat A.T. Inc. (“Transat” or the “Company”) today announced that shareholders overwhelmingly voted to elect Transat’s full slate of eight (8) directors, comprised of four new and four returning directors, at Transat’s Annual General and Special Meeting of Shareholders. The four proposals put forward by Financière Outremont Inc. were all defeated.

    Elected members of Transat’s board of directors (CNW Group/Transat A.T. Inc.)
    Elected members of Transat’s board of directors (CNW Group/Transat A.T. Inc.)

    The Board believes this decisive democratic result provides a clear mandate from shareholders to Transat’s management team and reconstituted Board of Directors to continue executing Transat’s strategic plan, strengthening the balance sheet, and delivering sustainable long-term shareholder value. It also sends a clear message that shareholders want stability, continuity and disciplined execution as the Company advances its turnaround.

    “Shareholders have made their decision, which now guides the Company. We thank them for their decisive vote of confidence in our nominees, management and the clear mandate to stay the course, execute our strategic plan, and continue building long-term value. This outcome delivers the necessary stability, experience and oversight for Transat to complete its multi-year transformation and move to the next phase of its strategy to drive profitable growth,” said Daniel Desjardins, Chair of the Board of Transat. “In public markets, proxy contests provide a democratic process for resolving different views. Shareholders are the ultimate decision-makers and the clarity they have provided today will enable governance uncertainty to recede and allow Transat to focus on executing against the expectations of shareholders and the market.”

    The voting results for the election of the directors are the following:

    Excluding Financière Outremont Inc.

    VOTES FORVOTES WITHHELD
    TRANSAT NOMINEE 
    DIRECTORS    		(#)( %)(#)( %)
    Ms. Christiane Bergevin13,868,12274.55 %4,735,01725.45 %
    Mr. Daniel Desjardins13,810,92874.24 %4,792,21125.76 %
    Ms. Marie-Pierre Dhers13,825,24674.31 %4,779,31425.69 %
    Mr. Michael R. DiLollo13,609,43673.15 %4,995,12426.85 %
    Mr. Vincent Duhamel13,663,88973.45 %4,939,25026.55 %
    Ms. Annick Guérard13,611,98673.16 %4,992,57426.84 %
    Mr. Stéphane Lefebvre13,576,25872.98 %5,026,88127.02 %
    Mr. Bruno Matheu13,383,58671.94 %5,219,55328.06 %
    FINANCIÈRE
    OUTREMONT NOMINEE
    DIRECTORS
    Mr. André Brosseau4,664,08625.12 %13,904,71974.88 %
    Mr. Jean-Marc Léger4,627,18524.93 %13,937,18375.07 %
    Mr. Pierre Karl Péladeau5,024,32027.07 %13,534,66472.93 %

    Other Matters Voted Upon at the Meeting

    In addition to the election of directors, shareholders voted to approve the additional 4 (four) items of business put forward by Transat, including to amend the articles to provide for a minimum of eight (8) and maximum of 15 directors on the Board, and, on an advisory and non-binding basis, the Corporation’s approach to executive compensation as disclosed in the management proxy circular dated February 9, 2026.

    Shareholders did not approve the proposal submitted by the dissident shareholder to amend the Corporation’s articles of incorporation to fix the number of directors at six (6).

    “We thank our shareholders for their continued commitment to Transat and appreciate the strong support from our retail shareholders, the vast majority of whom voted in favour of the Company’s proposals, as well as two of our major shareholders, the Fonds de solidarité FTQ and La Caisse. We also want to recognize the outgoing members of the Board for their leadership during an exceptionally challenging period for the Company and the global aviation industry. Their stewardship helped stabilize the business and position Transat for long-term growth,” Desjardins added.

    About Transat
    Founded in Montréal 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 Montréal, Transat has nearly 5,000 employees with a common purpose to bring people closer together. (TSX: TRZ) www.transat.com

  • Transat A.T. Inc. Reports Results for the First Quarter of Fiscal 2026 Adjusted EBITDA Increases 68% Year Over Year

    First-quarter highlights:

    • Revenues of $870.7 million, up 5.0% from $829.5 million last year
    • Adjusted EBITDA1 of $33.6 million, compared to $20.0 million last year
    • Net loss of $29.5 million ($0.73 per share), versus net loss of $122.5 million ($3.10 per share) last year
    • Positive free cash flow1 of $246.6 million, compared to positive $129.1 million last year
    • Cash and cash equivalents of $386.7 million as at January 31, 2026
    • Long-term debt and deferred government grant totaled $375.0 million, compared to $813.4 million last year
    • Announcement of a strategic partnership with Desjardins Group, supported by Visa Canada, in connection with the loyalty program scheduled to launch in the second half of 2026

    MONTRÉAL, March 10, 2026 /CNW/ – Transat A.T. Inc. reported today its first quarter 2026 financial results.

    “Transat delivered solid financial results in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting continued momentum from the diligent execution of its profitable growth strategy. Key initiatives implemented in the last several quarters, including our Elevation Program, diversification of network routes and airline partnerships, produced a 5% revenue growth and a strong 68% year-over-year increase in adjusted EBITDA1. In terms of operating metrics, we are equally pleased with our performance, highlighted by traffic growth of 2.2% and a fifth consecutive quarter of yield improvement. Overall, our achievements demonstrate that Transat is moving in the right direction in laying the foundation for long-term shareholder value creation,” said Annick Guérard, President and Chief Executive Officer of Transat.

    “Following the end of the quarter, we temporarily suspended all flights to Cuba until April 30 due to an anticipated fuel shortage at destination airports and organized repatriation flights to Canada to ensure the safety and well–being of our customers. Importantly, we redeployed a portion of the affected capacity through our South network, where we have seen an influx in demand. We will continue to monitor the situation closely to determine when flights to Cuba can safely resume,” added Ms. Guérard.

    “We are encouraged by improved profitability in the first quarter. Adjusted EBITDA1 grew significantly to $34 million, driven by higher revenues and improved cost efficiency, reflecting the positive impact of our Elevation Program. In addition, a strong operating cash flow enhanced our financial position, enabling us to reimburse $25 million on our revolving credit facility during the quarter, followed by a $30 million repayment on our working capital facility in early February,” said Jean-François Pruneau, Chief Financial Officer of Transat.

    First-quarter results

    For the quarter ended January 31, 2026, revenues reached $870.7 million, up 5.0% from $829.5 million in the corresponding period last year. This growth was primarily driven by a 2.2% increase in traffic, expressed in revenue-passenger-miles and by a 1.4% increase in airline unit revenues (yield). For the quarter, across the entire network, the capacity offered increased by 1.0%, compared with 2025, while the capacity for sun routes, the main program during this period, increased by 4.4%. In addition, following the agreement entered into with the original equipment manufacturer of the GTF2 engines in the second quarter of 2025, a financial compensation of $5.1 million was recorded in revenues during the quarter ended January 31, 2026.

    Adjusted EBITDA1 amounted to $33.6 million, compared with $20.0 million in 2025. This variation resulted primarily from higher airline unit revenues and traffic growth, combined with cost-control initiatives, reflecting the benefits of the Elevation Program. These factors were partially offset by ongoing costs related to Pratt & Whitney GTF1 engine issues and operational disruptions in Jamaica caused by Hurricane Melissa, despite the redeployment of capacity to other destinations.

    Cash flow and financial position

    Cash flows related to operating activities generated $296.4 million during the first quarter of 2026, compared with a cash generation of $168.6 million for the same period last year, mainly due to more favourable changes in working capital balances and higher profitability this year versus last. After accounting for investing activities and repayment of lease liabilities, free cash flow1 was positive $246.6 million during the quarter, compared with positive $129.1 million for the corresponding period last year.

    As at January 31, 2026, cash and cash equivalents stood at $386.7 million, compared to $164.9 million as at October 31, 2025. Cash and cash equivalents in trust or otherwise reserved mainly resulting from travel package bookings totaled $528.1 million as at January 31, 2026, compared with $430.0 million as at October 31, 2025, reflecting the seasonal nature of operations.

    Customers deposits for future travel totaled $1,089.6 million as at January 31, 2026, compared to $823.3 million as at October 31, 2025.

    Long-term debt and deferred government grant totaled $375.0 million as at January 31, 2026, compared to $400.0 million as at October 31, 2025. This decrease is attributable to the repayment of $25.0 million on the Corporation’s revolving term credit facility.

    Long–term debt and deferred government grant, net of cash and cash equivalents, stood at a net cash position of $11.7 million, compared to a net debt position of $235.1 million as at October 31, 2025.

    On February 13, 2026, the Corporation repaid the $30.0 million balance on its subordinated working capital facility. The facility remains available for future drawdowns.

  • Air Transat Launches New Sun Destinations from Several Canadian Cities

    New Flights to the South from Quebec City, Windsor, Charlottetown, and Fredericton

    MONTREAL, Feb. 19, 2026 /CNW/ – Air Transat, voted the 2025 World’s Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax, is celebrating an important milestone in its winter program with the launch of several new seasonal routes. In recent weeks, the airline has inaugurated new non-stop flights to the South from Quebec City, Windsor, Charlottetown and Fredericton, thereby expanding access to popular sun destinations for travellers from Eastern Canada and Southern Ontario.

    Aurélien Anzala, Director of Development at the Guadeloupe Islands Tourism Board; Marc-André Bédard, Vice President, Business Development and Technologies at YQB; Emma-Jeanne Bouchard, Director, Commercial and Air Services Development at YQB; accompanied by crew members of the very first TS694 flight. (CNW Group/Transat A.T. Inc.)
    Aurélien Anzala, Director of Development at the Guadeloupe Islands Tourism Board; Marc-André Bédard, Vice President, Business Development and Technologies at YQB; Emma-Jeanne Bouchard, Director, Commercial and Air Services Development at YQB; accompanied by crew members of the very first TS694 flight. (CNW Group/Transat A.T. Inc.)

    “The addition of Pointe-à-Pitre from Quebec City brings to fifteen the number of destinations offered by Air Transat this winter from Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport and illustrates our commitment to investing where demand is strong while maintaining our network’s balance,” said Sebastian Ponce, Chief Revenue Officer at Transat. “By also increasing departures from cities like Windsor, Charlottetown and Fredericton, we bring even more Canadians closer to the vacation destinations they love.”

    A new direct link between Quebec City and Guadeloupe

    On February 18, Air Transat operated its inaugural flight between Quebec City (YQB) and Pointe‑à‑Pitre (PTP), becoming the only airline to offer non-stop service between the two cities. The departure took place in the new Air Transat zone at Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport, a venue designed to inspire travel and featuring, among other things, a children’s play area. Operated every Wednesday until April 29, 2026, this flight creates a new direct connection to Guadeloupe, a region renowned for its vibrant culture, tropical landscapes and warm atmosphere.

    The route is operated with the Airbus A321LR, a modern aircraft known for its efficiency and comfort. Travellers enjoy a thoughtfully designed cabin, ergonomic seating and a state-of-the-art inflight entertainment system, both in Economy Class and Club Class.

    “We are delighted to celebrate the launch of this non-stop flight between Québec City and Pointe-à-Pitre,” mentioned Stéphane Poirier, President and CEO of YQB. “This new service to the Guadeloupe Islands, which brings Air Transat’s total to nearly fifteen sun destinations offered from YQB this winter, reflects our commitment to providing diverse and attractive options for travellers from the Québec City region. We thank Air Transat for their ongoing trust and are confident that this new offering will meet our customers’ expectations for their winter getaways.”

    Flights to the South from Windsor, Charlottetown and Fredericton

    Air Transat has also celebrated the first flights of three new seasonal routes, now active for the winter period:

    These new travel options allow vacationers from the Maritimes and Southern Ontario to fly directly to the South while enjoying the simplicity of Transat’s all‑inclusive packages.

    Positive feedback across the network

    “Air Transat is a terrific partner for YQG, and the local community has embraced both Air Transat and Punta Cana. The collaboration and re-introduction of Air Transat to our market have been seamless and overwhelmingly positive,” highlighted Mark Galvin, President and CEO, YQG-Windsor International Airport.

    “We’re thrilled to welcome Air Transat to Charlottetown Airport and to celebrate this inaugural flight to Cancun. This new service expands travel options for Islanders and strengthens our role as a gateway to exciting global destinations. We value Air Transat’s confidence in our market and look forward to building a strong partnership that delivers more choice and convenience for our passengers,” stated Doug Newson, CEO, Charlottetown Airport Authority.

    “We’re delighted to welcome Air Transat to the Fredericton community with the return of its non-stop service to Cancun,” added Jacques Fournier, Director of Commercial Development at the Fredericton International Airport Authority. “This route gives travellers from New Brunswick even more choices and convenience when planning their winter escape from YFC.”

    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, 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

  • Air Transat Suspends its Flights to Cuba Until April 30, 2026

    MONTREAL, Feb. 9, 2026 /CNW/ – Air Transat announces the temporary suspension of all flights to Cuba until April 30, 2026, following the rapid developments of the past few hours and the announcement by Cuban authorities of an anticipated aviation fuel shortage at destination airports.

    At this time, Air Transat’s priority is to ensure the orderly return of its customers currently at destination. The company is in the process of organizing repatriation flights to bring its customers back to Canada, which will be scheduled over the coming days. The aircraft deployed for these operations will carry the necessary fuel to operate these flights.

    Depending on how the situation evolves, flights to Cuba may resume as early as May 1, 2026. Air Transat will continue to closely monitor developments and will provide timely updates as new information becomes available.

    For customers

    Travellers currently in destination who booked a Transat all‑inclusive package can rely on the support of on‑site representative teams, who remain available to answer questions. Those who booked a flight directly with Air Transat or a package including an Air Transat flight through another tour operator may contact the destination assistance service using the phone number that will be provided to them for ongoing support until their return home.

    Air Transat will reach out to all customers currently in destination to share details about their return flights.

    All existing bookings for travel to Cuba scheduled between February 11 and April 30, 2026 will be automatically cancelled and refunded to the original form of payment on file. No action is required from customers.

    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, 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

  • Air Transat Cuba Update

    February 09, 2026 –  Air Transat, along with other carriers, has been notified by Cuban authorities of a temporary suspension of kerosene refueling at airports in the country.

    We understand that this situation may be concerning. Given its unpredictable nature, we are offering additional flexibility to all customers holding tickets to Cuba through April 30, 2026.

    Departures from February 9 to 28, 2026 inclusive

    • Date or destination change with no penalty
      or
    • (For reservations made prior to February 09, 2026): Full refund via same method of payment on file

    Customers or travel agencies must submit a request using the following form:https://www.airtransat.com/en-CA/forms/cuba-special-flexibility

    Departures from March 1 to April 30, 2026 inclusive

    • Change of date or destination without penalty, with issuance of a travel credit equal to the value of the original booking.

    Customers or travel agencies must submit a cancellation request to trigger the travel credit. It will be issued within 48 hours. Travellers may then rebook their vacation for any date and destination of their choice. The credit will remain valid for one year from the original return date.

    Customers or travel agencies must submit a request using the following form: https://www.airtransat.com/en-CA/forms/cuba-special-flexibility

    We are closely monitoring the situation and encourage customers to visit our website for updates.

  • Air Transat Takes Off for Rio de Janeiro: First Non-Stop Flights from Toronto and Montreal

    MONTREAL, Feb. 6, 2026 /CNW/ – Air Transat, voted World’s Best Leisure Airline at the 2025 Skytrax World Airline Awards, proudly operated its first flights to Rio de Janeiro (GIG) this week. Flight TS272 departed Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) on Wednesday evening, February 4, while flight TS274 took off from YUL Montréal-Trudeau International Airport on Thursday evening, February 5. With these new non-stop services, Air Transat offers travellers seamless access to one of South America’s most iconic destinations and becomes the only airline to connect Montreal directly to Rio de Janeiro.

    Flight TS272 crew – Photo credit: Elaine Fancy (CNW Group/Transat A.T. Inc.)
    Flight TS272 crew – Photo credit: Elaine Fancy (CNW Group/Transat A.T. Inc.)
    Karl Brochu, Vice President of Airport Operations and Air Service Development at ADM; Sebastian Ponce, Chief Revenue Officer at Transat; The Honorable Bárbara Bélkior de Souza e Silva, Deputy Consul General of Brazil in Montreal; and crew members of flight TS2724 – Photo credit: Frédérique Ménard-Aubin (CNW Group/Transat A.T. Inc.)
    Karl Brochu, Vice President of Airport Operations and Air Service Development at ADM; Sebastian Ponce, Chief Revenue Officer at Transat; The Honorable Bárbara Bélkior de Souza e Silva, Deputy Consul General of Brazil in Montreal; and crew members of flight TS2724 – Photo credit: Frédérique Ménard-Aubin (CNW Group/Transat A.T. Inc.)

    The new Toronto–Rio de Janeiro service operates twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, until June 10, 2026. The Montreal–Rio de Janeiro route, offered exclusively by Air Transat, runs once weekly on Thursdays until June 4, 2026. Both routes are served by the Airbus A330, ensuring travellers enjoy spacious cabins and a comfortable journey.

    “Inaugurating our non-stop service to Rio de Janeiro from both Toronto and Montreal is a bold step in expanding our South American offering,” said Sebastian Ponce, Transat’s Chief Revenue Officer. “These routes create a direct bridge between Canada and Brazil, making it easier for travellers to experience Rio’s vibrant culture and for families and friends to reunite across continents. And as the only airline offering a non-stop flight from Montreal to Rio, we are proud to provide an exclusive option that brings Canadians and Brazilians closer together.”

    “Travel between Canada and Rio de Janeiro is a growing market, with 44,000 passengers travelling annually between these two markets, nearly half of which arrive and depart from Toronto Pearson,” said Kurush Minocher, Chief Commercial Officer, Toronto Pearson. “Air Transat’s new non-stop service responds directly to this momentum and gives our passengers even more options to reach Brazil and the legendary skyline of Rio de Janeiro. We’re proud to support this route and the opportunities it creates for both business and leisure travellers.”

    “ADM Aéroports de Montréal is delighted to welcome this first non‑stop service to Rio de Janeiro, operated by our partner Air Transat. This new route will give travellers the chance to discover a destination known for its vibrant culture and remarkable diversity,” said Karl Brochu, Vice President, Airport Operations and Air Service Development at ADM. “Beyond boosting tourism, this connection will also strengthen economic, cultural, and family ties between Quebec and Brazil. We extend our sincere thanks to all the Air Transat teams who worked tirelessly to bring this route to life.”

    “Air Transat will commence regular operations in Brazil for the first time, with RIOgaleão and the ‘Marvelous City’ as its gateway to the country. In addition to expanding connectivity with Toronto, the airline will introduce Montreal as a new international destination from Tom Jobim International Airport. This investment in Rio de Janeiro underscores the strength of the local market and the city’s appeal on the global stage,” added Alexandre Monteiro, CEO of RIOgaleão.

    Travellers flying to Rio de Janeiro with Air Transat can also benefit from the airline’s interline partnership with GOL Airlines. From Galeão International Airport (GIG), this agreement provides smooth onward connections to GOL’s extensive network of destinations across Brazil and South America. These include major cities such as São Paulo, Porto Alegre, Recife, Salvador and Belo Horizonte – making it easier than ever to explore Brazil and beyond.

    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, 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

  • Air Transat to Launch Loyalty Program with Desjardins and Visa Canada

    MONTREAL, Jan. 19, 2026 /CNW/ – Air Transat is set to transform the experience for travel enthusiasts with a new loyalty program designed to reward loyalty through accessible and personalized benefits. Supported by a strategic partnership with Desjardins Group and enabled by Visa, this program will multiply benefits for its customers, offering an enriched experience at every stage of their journey. The launch is planned for the second half of 2026.

    This collaboration is part of a strategy that will offer travellers an innovative loyalty program with exclusive benefits and an enhanced experience. This alliance brings together two iconic Quebec-based companies, backed by one of the world’s most trusted and secure payment networks.

    “This strategic partnership with Desjardins, powered by Visa, is a fundamental pillar of our business strategy. It allows us to strengthen ties with our customers while accelerating sustainable value creation for Transat and its investors. This new loyalty program will enrich the Air Transat experience, voted World’s Best Leisure Airline by Skytrax seven times, through a modern, simple, and flexible approach. Alongside Desjardins and Visa, we are taking a new step toward offering even more to our loyal customers at every moment of their travel experience,” said Xavier Szwengler, Vice President, Marketing and Distribution at Transat.

    “We are very proud to see this partnership come to fruition. We look forward to unveiling our line of credit cards that will enhance the loyalty experience offered by Air Transat. This initiative reflects our commitment to providing tangible and personalized benefits to our members and clients who travel with Air Transat, in collaboration with Visa,” mentioned Nathalie Larue, Executive Vice-President, Personal Services and Community Life at Desjardins Group.

    “For more than 50 years, Visa Canada has proudly worked alongside Desjardins to deliver value and innovation to their members, and we’re excited to be collaborating with another Canadian institution, Air Transat, in this next chapter. Together, we’re introducing a new suite of cards designed to bring more travel opportunities, meaningful rewards, and exceptional payment experiences to Canadians. Backed by Visa’s global network, cardholders will enjoy secure, seamless payments wherever life takes them,” said Dan Iwachiw, Vice President and Head of Product at Visa Canada.

    This tripartite union is a sign of confidence and a promising future. More details will be shared in the coming months.

    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

    About Desjardins Group
    Desjardins Group is the largest cooperative financial group in North America and the sixth largest in the world, with assets of $511.9 billion as at September 30, 2025. It has been named one of the top employers in Canada by both Forbes magazine and Mediacorp. It has also been recognized as one of the World’s Best Banks in 2025 by Forbes. To meet the diverse needs of its members and clients, Desjardins offers a full range of products and services to individuals and businesses through its extensive distribution network, its online platforms, and its subsidiaries across Canada. Ranked among the world’s strongest banks according to The Banker magazine, Desjardins has one of the highest capital ratios and one of the highest credit ratings in the industry.

    About Visa
    Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, sellers, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com.

  • New collective agreement for Air Transat pilots

    The pilots ratify the agreement

    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 

  • Air Transat Pilots Overwhelmingly Ratify Five-Year Contract

    6 January 2026

    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.