Air Transat Begins Cancelling Flights as Pilots Prepare to Strike

URGENT UPDATE: Air Transat has started cancelling flights today as pilots gear up for a potential strike. Following a 72-hour strike notice issued by pilots on December 7, the airline announced cancellations commencing today, December 8, with significant disruptions expected through December 12.

Travelers with Air Transat flights this week should brace for changes to their itineraries. The Montreal-based airline stated that both departures from Quebec and return flights could be affected as the situation develops. Air Transat is prioritizing assistance for passengers currently traveling or those whose return is imminent.

The airline’s official statement reads,

“This notice compels us to implement an action plan that includes the gradual and orderly shutdown of our operations over the next three days.”

Pilots voted overwhelmingly for strike action last week, with 99% of participating pilots supporting the decision. This vote led to a formal 72-hour strike notice delivered by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) on Saturday. If no agreement is reached, the strike could officially begin on December 10, resulting in widespread flight disruptions.

Passengers impacted by cancellations should act quickly. Air Transat advises travelers to check the status of their flights. If a flight is cancelled, options include rebooking on the next available flight within 48 hours or receiving a full refund for the unused portion of the trip. Additionally, for those on vacation packages needing extended accommodations due to disruptions, Air Transat will cover extra costs. However, passengers should note that losses related to third-party services will not be reimbursed.

The push for strike action stems from ongoing frustrations among pilots regarding working conditions under a collective agreement that hasn’t been updated since 2015. Negotiations have been in progress since January 2025, but ALPA reports that progress has been slow. Pilots are advocating for enhanced job security, improved working conditions, and compensation that aligns with current industry standards.

For real-time updates and detailed rebooking and refund policies, passengers are encouraged to visit Air Transat’s website. As this situation unfolds, travelers should remain vigilant and prepared for potential disruptions to their plans.