A potential strike was narrowly averted this week as Air Transat and its pilots reached a tentative agreement, a deal poised to dramatically reshape pilot compensation. The agreement, forged just hours before a looming deadline, promises significant financial gains for those who navigate the skies for the airline.
The proposed contract outlines a substantial increase in earnings, with many senior pilots projected to earn close to $388,000 annually by May 2029. Experienced first officers stand to exceed $238,000, marking a significant leap in their financial standing.
The five-year agreement, retroactive to May of this year, establishes starting salaries of $220,500 for captains and $85,000 for first officers. These figures represent increases of approximately 47% and 60% respectively, immediately impacting the financial well-being of Air Transat’s flight crews.
For the most seasoned captains, the agreement translates to an additional $100,000 or more each year. This substantial boost reflects a recognition of their experience and dedication to the airline.
Beyond the base salary increases, the tentative deal includes a signing bonus equivalent to 11% of annual salary, distributed over two years. This provides an immediate financial benefit to pilots as the agreement takes effect.
Union and airline representatives emphasize that the agreement brings Air Transat pilot compensation in line with industry standards, aligning them with colleagues at major carriers like Air Canada and WestJet. The goal was to achieve parity and recognize the value of their skilled workforce.
“We are where the industry is at,” stated Bradley Small, chair of the union’s Air Transat contingent, highlighting the success of the negotiations. The airline also acknowledged the value of its pilots while emphasizing gains in productivity.
The agreement comes amidst a wave of labor action within the airline industry, fueled by rising costs of living and a desire for compensation that reflects the demands of the profession. This deal follows similar gains achieved by pilots at other major airlines.
Last year, Air Canada pilots secured a nearly 42% wage increase over four years, while pilots at major U.S. airlines saw pay bumps ranging from 34% to 40% – though starting from a higher base. WestJet pilots also achieved a 24% increase over four years in 2023.
Air Transat’s 750 pilots will now vote on the proposed agreement, with the ratification process concluding on January 6th. The union will present the details to members in Toronto and Montreal next week before the voting opens on December 19th.
The outcome of this vote will determine whether Air Transat pilots receive these significant financial improvements, potentially setting a new benchmark for pilot compensation within the Canadian airline industry.
