Air Transat pilots have voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike if contract negotiations with the airline do not progress. The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) announced on Wednesday that 99 percent of participating pilots supported the strike mandate, with 98 percent of eligible pilots casting their votes. This decision grants the union's governing body the authority to declare a strike as early as December 10, although it does not constitute an immediate strike notice.

Negotiations between ALPA and Air Transat began in January, but the two parties left conciliation on November 18. Currently, they are in a 21-day cooling-off period that concludes on December 10. At that point, either side can issue a 72-hour notice for a strike or lockout.

Bradley Small, chair of the Air Transat ALPA Master Executive Council, emphasized the pilots' desire for a contract that reflects current industry standards rather than those from 2015. "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," Small stated.

The pilots are advocating for improvements in job security, working conditions, compensation, and overall quality of life. Small reiterated the union's preference to avoid a strike, saying, "We do not want to strike. Our goal remains to reach an equitable agreement at the negotiating table." He urged management to take the negotiations seriously to prevent operational disruptions, especially with the busy holiday travel season approaching.

As the December deadline approaches, the situation remains tense, with both sides under pressure to reach a resolution. The outcome of these negotiations will significantly impact the airline's operations and its pilots' working conditions.