Air Transat Pilots Issue 72-Hour Strike Notice, Passengers Urged to Know Rights

With the union representing Air Transat pilots issuing a 72-hour strike notice, the airline is preparing for a phased suspension of its operations on December 8 and 9, 2023. In light of this development, customer advocate Gabor Lukacs emphasizes the importance of understanding passenger rights during this period.

Lukacs, founder of Air Passenger Rights, stated in an interview with CTV News Channel that if Air Transat cancels flights in anticipation of the strike, this would be classified as a cancellation within the airline’s control. He noted that affected passengers are entitled not only to rebooking options, including flights with competitor airlines, but also to meals, accommodation, and compensation of up to $1,000 depending on the duration of their delays.

As the airline gears up for potential disruptions, it has assured customers that they will be informed about flight cancellations and provided with solutions. Dave Bourdages, Vice-President of Flight Operations at Air Transat, confirmed that the airline is implementing a special plan to assist in returning all passengers to their destinations over the forthcoming three days.

While Air Transat is offering travel credits for customers wishing to adjust their plans, Lukacs advises caution regarding refunds. “Passengers have no obligation to accept those offers,” he explained. He recommends that travelers adhere strictly to their legal rights and contractual agreements. “If you accept goodwill gestures, you place yourself at the airline’s mercy. You can insist on being transported on a competitor airline on your original date, or as close to it as possible,” he added.

The ongoing negotiations between the pilots’ union and Air Transat have been underway for nearly a year. The union claims that it was compelled to issue the strike notice after several months of unproductive discussions. Conversely, the airline asserts it has made generous offers, including a 59 percent salary increase over five years along with significant improvements in pilots’ working conditions.

Although Air Transat expresses hope for a negotiated agreement before the scheduled strike day, Lukacs insists that the airline remains responsible for rebooking affected passengers if the strike occurs. “Air Transat is required to rebook passengers on flights with its partner airlines to depart within 48 hours of the original departure time,” he stated. Should this not be feasible, he emphasized that the airline must purchase tickets for passengers on competitor airlines using its corporate funds.

Lukacs further criticized the airline’s suggestion for passengers to buy their own tickets and seek reimbursement later, calling it insufficient and not meeting legal obligations. He maintains that it is the airline’s duty to secure tickets for affected passengers, stating, “It is Air Transat’s obligation to buy your ticket, not you to run after them.”

As the situation develops, passengers are encouraged to stay informed about their rights and to be proactive in ensuring their travel arrangements are secure in light of the impending strike.