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Transat AT, Inc.

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Sector Consumer Cyclical
Industry Leisure
Employees 5001-10,000
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FY2009 Annual Report · Transat AT, Inc.
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TRANSAT A.T. INC.     ANNUAL REPORT

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Sales of $3.5 billion, up 1% from
the prior year.

Margin of $93.4 million, compared
with $127.8 million in 2008.

Net income of $61.8 million, com-
pared with a net loss of $49.4 
million in 2008.

Record volume of travellers out-
bound from Canada to sun destina-
tions in winter.

A challenging year because of the
recession and A (H1N1) influenza,
which especially affected long-haul
travel outbound from France and
trips to Canada.

Creation of Transat France and
streamlining of processes and
structures.

Issuance of common shares for
net proceeds of $60.5 million.

Transat A.T. Inc. is an integrated
international tour operator that
specializes in holiday travel. It
offers more than 60 destination
countries and distributes products
in approximately 50 countries.
Transat owns an air carrier, offers
accommodation and destination
services and operates an exten-
sive distribution network. A
responsible company mindful 
of contributing to sustainable
tourism development, Transat has
a dedicated team of thorough 
and efficient people who deliver 
quality vacation travel services at
affordable prices to a broad 
customer base.

 
 
Highlights
In thousands of Canadian dollars
except per share amounts and ratio

2009

2008
Restated

Variance

Variance

$

%

3,545,341
93,395
61,847

3,512,851
127,768
(49,394)

32,490
(34,373)
111,241

0.9
(26.9)
225.2

1.85

(1.49)

3.34

224.2

5
6
3
,
2

4
0
6
,
2

6
4
0
,
3

3
1
5
,
3

5
4
5
,
3

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Revenues
Margin1
Net income (loss)
Diluted earnings (loss)

per share ($)
Cash flows relating 

to operating activities
Cash and cash equivalents
Total assets
Long-term debt 

(including the short-term 
portion)
Debt ratio 2
Return on average   

shareholders’ capital3(%)

Book value per share 4($)
Stock price as at October 31 

(TRZ.B) ($)

Dividend per share ($)
Outstanding shares, 

45,234
180,552
1,129,503

95,069
145,767
1,267,214

(49,835)
34,785

(137,711)

(52.4)
23.9

(10.9)

110,840
0.67

153,241
0.73

(42,401)
(0.06)

17.3

9.74

14.54
0.09

(15.8)
10.59

11.36
0.36

33.1

(0.85)

3.18

(0.27)

(27.7)
(8.2)

209.5

(8.0)

28.0

(75.0)

end of year (in thousands)

37,729

32,678

5,051

15.5

1 Margin: Revenues less operating expenses, according to the Consolidated Statements

of Income.

2 Debt ratio: total liabilities divided by total assets.
3 Return on average shareholders’capital: Net income (loss) divided by average Shareholders’

equity.

4 Book value per share: Shareholders’equity divided by total number of shares outstanding.

Revenues
(In millions of dollars)

Cash flows relating 
to operating activities

(In millions of dollars)

3
.
2
5

5
.
2
0
1

7
.
6
5
1

1
.
5
9

2
.
5
4

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

4
.
9
9
1

7
.
7
4
2

6
.
3
7
2

5
.
5
6
3

2
.
9
1
3

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

6
.
0
2
1

9
.
6
2
1

3
.
6
3
1

8
.
7
2
1

4
.
3
9

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

4
.
5
5

8
.
5
6

8
.
7
7

8
.
1
6

)
4
.
9
4
(

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009

Aircraft fuel

(In millions of dollars)

Margin

(In millions of dollars)

Net income
(loss)

(In millions of dollars)

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The year 2009 was a rather difficult one across the
board for the tourism industry, with the financial crisis
and recession having led to a moderation of interna-
tional demand. In Europe, despite a decline in book-
ings, the revenues and margins of the largest tour
operators grew, thanks to reduced supply in the
United Kingdom and Germany. In Canada, on the
other hand, supply has remained abundant. We were
ready for this, however, and early in the year imple-
mented an extensive cost-reduction program, accom-
panied by a commercial strategy targeting volume. As
a result, Transat posted higher revenues while main-
taining its critical mass, market shares and ability to
realize economies-of-scale. The margin suffered, of
course, but not to the degree expected. All in all, the
fiscal 2009 results correspond roughly with our fore-
casts. 

Although 2009 will probably turn out to be one of the
rare years in which international tourism numbers
actually decline, Transat posted record volumes during
the first half of the year. In the second half, our rev-
enues declined slightly, but the margin increased. We
succeeded in maintaining a high load factor on our
aircraft throughout 2009, and the drop in the margin
over the entire year is explained in very large meas-
ure by the intensity of the competition, given the
oversupply situation in Canada. 

The appearance of the A (H1N1) influenza virus in
Mexico in April 2009, and its spread to the rest of the
world, did not diminish customers’ appetite for travel,
at least in Canada, such that there has been only mod-
erate impact on our margins. Demand for Mexico
products decreased, of course—quite sharply so for
the rest of the year—but we were able to offer alterna-
tive destinations very quickly. As a result, the first

2

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

 
 
 
 
 
wave of the flu pandemic had no notable adverse
effect on our volumes. 

At the end of the day, while 2009 was not a banner
year in terms of financial results, our performance
compared favourably with that of the majority of our
direct competitors. Moreover, we are well positioned
to profit from the economic recovery because we
have successfully completed several major projects
that will have lasting effects, among them:

• We reduced our infrastructure costs by streamlin-
ing certain internal processes and completing the
integration of the Finance and Human Resources
functions.

• We postponed the start of several projects, reduced

our distribution costs, and curbed recruitment.
• During the second half of the year, we reduced our
air operations costs, initiated the renewal of the 
Air Transat fleet, and adopted a global approach to
airline seat management.

• We expanded our Canadian distribution network

and boosted controlled sales, continuing to rely on
a multi-channel approach.

• We proceeded with a share issue that generated

net proceeds of some $60.5 million.

In so doing, we achieved two of our four strategic
objectives for 2009: First, we increased the company’s
efficiency, productivity, competitiveness and agility
through stringent management of costs and optimal
use of resources, combining short-term results with
long-term vision. Second, we continued to develop
and implement our multi-channel distribution strategy.

Our third objective for 2009 was to consolidate our
leadership position in the outgoing market. In Canada,
we differentiated our offering and broadened our
reach by introducing new city-pairs and new exclusive
products, as well as enhancements to the customer
experience. Seven new routes between Canada and
sun destinations were inaugurated during the winter,
and another four between Canada and Europe in the
summer season. In France, despite a depressed mar-
ket, we posted stable volumes and revenues.

Our fourth objective was to roll out a sustainable
tourism plan aimed at making Transat a reference
within the industry when it comes to corporate social
responsibility. Progress on this front has been
remarkable.

Jean-Marc Eustache 
Chairman of the Board, 
President and Chief Executive Officer

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

3

The outgoing Canadian market

Transat Tours Canada (TTC), which operates mainly
under the brands Transat Holidays, Nolitours and Air
Transat, posted strong winter season results, led by a
17.7% increase in volume to sun destinations. During
the second half of the year, the number of Canadian
travellers declined slightly, but we recorded very good
load factors. Generally speaking, selling prices trended
downward in 2009, as a result of strong competition
stemming from oversupply. Fuel prices overall were
down from 2008 levels, but Transat was not able to
fully profit from this because of its hedging strategy
(which consists of paying a price fixed in advance for
part of the fuel it requires).

One of the most significant events in 2009 was the
signing of a five-year partnership agreement (running
from May 1, 2009, to April 30, 2014) with the Canadian
-based carrier CanJet Airlines for chartering of narrow-
body Boeing Next Generation 737-800 aircraft on 
sun destination routes. These extremely fuel-efficient
189-seat aircraft are well suited to our needs, as they
allow us to serve smaller markets and adjust supply
in response to market fluctuations. The agreement
reached with CanJet is more beneficial than the one
we had with WestJet Airlines since 2003, which it
replaces, and it considerably strengthens TTC’s posi-
tion on the sun destinations market. Its positive
impact began to be felt as early as summer 2009, and
is expected to grow during the winter season. 

We adopted and began implementing a transition plan
for renewing the Air Transat fleet. Consisting of 18
wide-body jets (Airbus A330s and A310s) in 2009, the
fleet should solely be made up of Airbus A330s within
four years or so. A fifth Airbus A330 was added to the
fleet in the fall of 2009, and an Airbus A310 was with-
drawn. Two more A310s are slated to be withdrawn in
2010. Operating only one type of aircraft will result in
lower operating costs and require adjustments to our
commercial approach.

These two events—the signing of the agreement with
CanJet Airlines and the launch of the Air Transat fleet
renewal plan—are in keeping with a new, global air
capacity management approach, applied in Canada
but also in Europe, whereby our tour operators use
more than 60 carriers. In France, for example, we
reached an agreement with XL Airways, which will
charter one of Air Transat’s aircraft during winter 2010
to serve our tour operators based in that country,
resulting in substantial savings. We may also seize
opportunities for other agreements in the medium-
haul market. This type of initiative, combined with use
of a single aircraft type by Air Transat and the charter-

ing of narrow-body jets, should translate into greater
flexibility, reduced costs and superior performance.

In 2009, Air Transat improved customer experience by
introducing new in-flight meals and creating Option
Plus, a range of optional services available to Econo-
my Class passengers. The air carrier’s on-time per-
formance and fleet reliability, which are far superior to
the average, were maintained. Air Transat received the
Business Evolution Award from the U.S. consulting
firm Aberdeen Group, for exceptional-quality manage-
ment of its supply chain. It also won the Airbus A300/
A310 Family Operational Excellence Award for excel-
lence in management of its A310 aircraft. Lastly, Air
Transat was once again named the favourite airline of
Canadian travel agents in the holiday travel category.

In Canada, we make approximately 30% of our sales
through our distribution network (453 travel agencies)
and our websites. Transat Distribution Canada (TDC)
continued to expand its presence from coast to coast,
recruiting some 25 new franchises in 2009. TDC, which
had 431 agencies, including 354 franchises, as of
October 31, 2009, successfully introduced new incen-
tive programs for travel advisors, and strengthened
its support of Transat. In addition, our business unit
tripcentral.ca, which has a Web presence as well as 22
travel agencies in Canada, took over management of
our online agency exitnow.ca.

The outgoing European market

Because of the fears raised by the worldwide econo-
mic slowdown and, to a lesser extent, the A (H1N1) flu
virus, conditions in the outgoing European market
were challenging. This was particularly true in France,
where international tourism, especially on long-haul
routes, declined sharply. In spite of depressed demand
and downwardly trending sale prices, we posted 
relatively stable revenue and a positive margin in
that country; many tour operators cannot make the
same claim. In the United Kingdom, a major market
for Transat, we were able to take advantage of the
decreased seat supply, and our volumes, revenue and
margin all moved higher. In Europe, and particularly
in the U.K., however, sales of Canadian-destination
guided and FIT tours were down, which had an impact
on Jonview Canada’s business. 

In Europe, the number of travellers increased by 6.6%
in the first half of the year and by 5.6% in the second.
The growth observed in the summer season was
largely attributable to sales of trips to Canadian desti-
nations from the United Kingdom, while sales of trav-
el departing from other countries, including France,
were generally stagnant or in decline. 

4

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

Vacances Transat (France) saw its revenue shrink in
2009 as a result of its exposure to the long-haul mar-
ket, but that drop was almost entirely offset by an
increase in volumes at Look Voyages, whose products
focus on short- and medium-haul travel and the all-
inclusive “club” format. This seems to indicate that
these uncertain times have led travellers to opt for
more “reassuring” travel products, and that the scope
of our offering helped us resist the pressures well. In
addition, Vacances Transat was able to cushion the
blow because its product range is much richer than it
was a few years ago. 

In 2009, we created Transat France, a structure that
groups our two tour operators’ Finance, Legal, Infor-
mation Systems and Human Resources departments
under a single management entity. In doing so, we
realized efficiency gains, and it will from now on be
easier to have our business units share a common
vision. We also announced, in September, structural
changes to our distribution network. To improve our
adaptability to market conditions and maintain an
uncompromising focus on tourism and leisure travel,
we plan to dispose of 28 of our 63 travel agencies in
France. This operation requires the implementation of
a job protection plan, and restructuring costs will be
incurred. The remaining 35 agencies will be formally
brought under Look Voyages, and will play an impor-
tant role, not only because we are continuing to build
on multi-channel distribution, but also because, as
announced in November, Transat France, in its capaci-
ty as a tour operator, will become a partner of choice
of AFAT Voyages Sélectour, France’s biggest travel
agency network, as of early 2010.

As part of this commercial partnership, our 35 agen-
cies will become members of that network, bringing
its total number of agencies in France to more than
1,200. Meanwhile, a certain number of existing inde-
pendent agencies will adopt the Look Voyages brand
name. This operation will therefore expand our reach
and brand visibility in France.

C

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

5

Incoming markets and destination services

It has been a difficult year for Canada as a travel desti-
nation. Several factors are to blame: first of all, the
recession, which curbed the inclinations of European
travellers; second, the tendency of vacationers to
choose medium-haul travel in troubled economic
times; and finally the growing attractiveness of certain
Asian destinations. Consequently, Jonview Canada
recorded a sizable drop in its number of travellers in
2009. That decline was widespread, but was particular-
ly felt in departures from the U.K. (in spite of an
increase in volume for Canadian Affair) and France.
Jonview Canada remained profitable, however, thanks
to a cost-reduction plan introduced very early in the
year along with renegotiation of certain supplier
agreements. Despite the fact that the economic cli-
mate clearly played a central role in the decline, such
traveller disinterest in Canada is symptomatic of a
worrisome trend that cannot be reversed unless the
Canadian government steps up efforts to attract inter-
national tourism.

Tourgreece, for its part, welcomed fewer Canadian
visitors, but handled more travellers from Latin
America and Asia, in the end achieving volumes simi-
lar to those of 2008.

With regard to destination services provided in
Mexico and the Dominican Republic, it must be noted
that the sharp drop in volume to Mexico during the
second quarter (because of the flu outbreak) was off-
set by an influx of new customers, including
Americans, such that profitability of these operations
increased in comparison to 2008.

Our hotel joint venture, which includes three estab-
lishments in Mexico, felt the impact of the A (H1N1)
flu pandemic during the second half of the year,
which led us to close one hotel for a two-month peri-
od as a cost-reduction measure. Despite all this, our
hotel operations, driven by strong performance in the
Dominican Republic, closed out the year with results
similar to those of 2008.  

Human Resources 

We revised the structure of our Human Resources
function in 2009 so as to better adapt it to the organi-
zation’s needs. Centres of excellence in staffing, organi-
zational development and labour relations were created.

Transat operates in an industry in which human
potential and organizational efficiency are important
success factors. As a result, strategic development of
skills, employee loyalty and engagement, and the

organization’s ongoing adaptation to market realities
constitute priorities. To this end, we have implement-
ed a training program in which 150 first-level man-
agers are enrolled—an initiative that will widen in
scope during 2010 with the launch of new modules.
We are also continuing with a finely targeted, acceler-
ated training program built around a Web-based tool
designed to promote periodic interaction between
executives and participants, with the goal of ensuring
sustained, documented progress. In addition, we plan
to revisit our incentive compensation and group
insurance programs so as to enhance the attractive-
ness of our offer as an employer and to build employ-
ee loyalty. 

Lastly, implementation of a change-management
method and development of a support expertise will
go a long way toward ensuring the smooth integra-
tion of the organizational changes orchestrated over
the past two years.

Corporate social responsibility

Since 2007, jointly with our employees and partners,
we have stepped up efforts to improve our perform-
ance in terms of responsible management. We seek to
forge dynamic relationships with our stakeholders
and adopt exemplary practices, and to encourage our
partners to do the same. Taking a sustainable develop-
ment perspective, our goal as a tour operator is to
reconcile economic development, environmental stew-
ardship and respect for local populations. 

Although this is a vast project and much work
remains to be done—let alone the fact that we face
demanding economic times—we have achieved sig-
nificant progress that has enabled Transat to stand
out. Our principal initiatives were summarized in our
first corporate social responsibility report, issued in
January 2009; an update will be published in January
2011.

Actions taken in 2009 include development of an
internal environmental footprint report; preparation of
an action plan based on a series of indicators; devel-
opment of a program to promote sustainable tourism
to our hotel partners, with an accompanying guide to
exemplary practices that will be distributed in 2010;
our ongoing program to support sustainable tourism
projects in destination countries; active participation
in industry-led efforts; and the signing of a partner-
ship agreement with SOS Children’s Villages, a major
international humanitarian organization.

6

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

Financial position 

We posted revenues of $3.5 billion for fiscal 2009, a
1% increase over 2008, a margin of $93.4 million, ver-
sus $127.8 million the previous year, and net income
of $61.8 million ($1.85 per share on a diluted basis),
compared with a net loss of $49.4 million ($1.49 per
share). The results include the following non-cash and
non-operating items: impact of hedge accounting
standards, impact of asset-backed commercial paper
revaluation, repurchase of preferred shares and
restructuring costs. Excluding these, adjusted after-tax
income is $33.7 million in 2009 ($1.01 per share), com-
pared with $55.4 million ($1.67 per share) in 2008.

The decrease in the margin is attributable mainly to
the impact of extremely intense competition on sell-
ing prices, in a context of oversupply, and to the
efforts made to stimulate demand. Long-haul travel
outbound from France and travel from all origin coun-
tries inbound to Canada were the market segments in
which our volumes suffered most. All things consid-
ered, the other segments performed well under the
circumstances, with relatively low selling prices help-
ing to shore up demand. Our cost-reduction programs
also had a favourable impact on results.

During the year, we revised our hedging policy, espe-
cially with respect to fuel, to better account for travel
market conditions, and the extreme volatility of
prices.

In 2009, Transat issued close to 4.9 million common
shares, generating gross proceeds of $63.5 million.
Net proceeds ($60.5 million) will be used for general
corporate purposes, including working capital financ-
ing, capital expenditures and, potentially, acquisitions.
In the wake of this issue, and considering the existing
credit facilities, Transat has sufficient liquidity and is
properly positioned to pursue its strategic objectives.

Outlook for 2010

It appears that the recession, technically speaking, will
not continue into 2010, unless the economy falters
again, which some specialists do not rule out. The
experts agree, however, on the fact that the recovery,
if and when it gains traction, will be slow. At any rate,
we cannot but notice that tourism has once again
proved its resiliency in the face of changing economic
fortunes. The impact has been less severe than in
other sectors and, barring any extremely unpleasant
surprises with the A (H1N1) flu, we believe it is rea-
sonable to expect a solid recovery during the winter
of 2011.

Although, generally speaking, the Foreign Independ-
ent Travel (FIT) segment will probably experience
faster growth than package travel, the latter should
continue on an upward curve because it remains an
extremely popular product, especially in times of
uncertainty. We will continue to market all travel for-
mats that consumers demand. Over the short term,
we expect to be intensifying our activities in the tour
segment and offering an increasingly comprehensive
FIT travel product line. Significant milestones have
been achieved in this regard during 2009: we have
overhauled Rêvatours’ selection of outbound-from-
Canada offerings, and entered into a unique partner-
ship with GAP Adventures. We have also taken steps
to implement a new technology platform in Canada
and in France with an eye to enriching our FIT offering.

The competitive landscape is changing. In Canada, a
major tour operator has dropped off the map, two
others have merged, and the country’s two largest air
carriers have strengthened their presence in leisure
travel. In France as well, consolidation forces are at
work, and the entire industry has had to cope with the
consequences of the world’s two biggest tour opera-
tors—both of which benefit from extensive distribu-
tion networks—having made the country their battle-
field. Under the circumstances, it is worth recalling
the following facts:

•

•

•

In the transatlantic market, Transat has an unparal-
leled offering, uniquely adapted to vacationers
(Canadian and European), with nearly 70 routes
between 34 European and 9 Canadian cities, open-
jaw options, and access to products (coach tours,
cruises, vehicle rentals and hotel packages) tailored
for the leisure traveller, all at highly competitive
prices.

In the sun destinations market, departing from both
Canada and France, we offer more than 400 hotels
as part of a product line that stands out from the
competition thanks to long-standing business rela-
tionships, exclusivity and the presence of our
expert teams at destination. In addition, the combi-
nation of CanJet Airlines and Air Transat along with
initiatives such as the agreement reached with XL
Airways mean that we can rapidly adapt to fluctua-
tions in demand.

In all of its markets, Transat continues to rely on an
ever-growing multi-channel distribution system,
with controlled sales and online sales constantly on
the rise.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

7

I extend warm thanks to all Transat personnel, the
members of the management team and the Board of
Directors for their contribution and dedication. I also
thank our shareholders, including those who pur-
chased shares as part of our most recent issue, and I
want to assure each of them that we will continue,
without fail, to give the best of ourselves and remain
focused on our objective: to grow the company’s
value.

Jean-Marc Eustache
Chairman of the Board
President and Chief Executive Officer

January 13, 2010

As we enter fiscal 2010, Transat is in a strong position,
both strategically and financially. Our organization has
realized significant efficiency and flexibility gains, we
are controlling costs effectively, and we have a robust
financial structure.

With two of the company’s founders having retired—
as part of a carefully prepared transition—we are
proud to be able to count on a competent, close-knit
and dynamic management team. On November 1,
2009, Nelson Gentiletti was appointed Chief Operating
Officer. Denis Pétrin, who has been with Transat since
1990, replaced Mr. Gentiletti in the position of Vice-
President, Finance and Administration and Chief
Financial Officer, while Michael DiLollo, who has
been with us since 1991, succeeded Mr. Gentiletti as
President of Transat Tours Canada. We were also
pleased to announce the appointment of Michel
Bellefeuille as Vice-President and Chief Information
Officer. Finally, Mr. Yves Lalumière was appointed
Vice-President and General Manager of Transat
Distribution Canada.

In his new role, Mr. Gentiletti will oversee all of the
company’s operations and be directly responsible 
for Transat Tours Canada, Transat France, Transat
Distribution Canada, Air Transat, Canadian Affair, Air
Consultants Europe, Jonview Canada, tripcentral.ca,
Rêvatours and Merika Tours. This changing of the
guard, which has been in the works for some time, is
a significant step for Transat. We are privileged to be
able to rely on a talented team that has had sufficient
time to amass valuable experience before taking over
the reins. 

Together with the undersigned, two great builders,
Lina De Cesare and Philippe Sureau, have dedicated
some 30 years of their lives to guiding Transat’s
growth with unstinting passion and determination.
Without them, Transat would not be the leader that it
is today. I wish to express to them my utmost respect
and acknowledgment. I also thank them on behalf of
our shareholders, our partners and our employees.
Luckily, Lina and Philippe will continue to sit on
Transat’s Board of Directors, and will act as special
advisors to the President and Chief Executive Officer. 

8

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

REVENUES
EMPLOYEES
PASSENGERS
TRA

2,394,000 
2,926 
3,207,000 
1,619,000  

2,371,000
3,051
3,181,000
1,492,000

2,117,000 
2,881
2,918,000
1,348,000

11,700
18
3,300

13,800 
25
4,700

13,000 
27
4,300

OUTLE
OUTLE
CLUB 

2009

2008

2007

2009

2008

2007

OUTGOING TOUR OPERATORS
AND AIR TRANSPORTATION
Transat Tours Canada (TTC)
(Transat Holidays, 
Nolitours and Air Transat)

I

A
C
R
E
M
A

Revenues 
Employees
Passengers1
Travellers2

Rêvatours

Revenues 
Employees
Travellers

INCOMING TOUR OPERATORS
AND DESTINATION SERVICES
Jonview Canada

Revenues 
Employees
Travellers

Other

Revenues 
Employees

105,400
203
206,000

12 7,500
288
263,000

121,000 
238
249,000

52,700
294

43,200
263

32,000 
107

RETAIL DISTRIBUTION
Transat Distribution Canada
(Club Voyages, Marlin Travel, 
TravelPlus, Voyages en Liberté 

Revenues (commissions 

and franchise) 

Outlets owned
Employees
Outlets

58,900
77
489
354

Tripcentral.ca and exitnow.ca

Revenues (commissions)
Employees
Outlets

9,300
136
22

67,100 
78
581
337

8,700
110
22

61,400 
83
577
304

7,4 00 
100
22

OTHER AIRLINE SERVICES
Handlex

Revenues 
Employees

54,900
1,033

54,200 
1,147

49,500 
1,203

1 Airlines record flight segments in terms of passengers
2 Tour operators record round-trip travellers
3 Including Lookéa cruise in Egypt

All subsidiaries wholly owned, except:
Jonview Canada (80.07%)
Tourgreece (90.0%)
Travel Superstore Inc. (Tripcentral.ca) (64.6%)

E
P
O
R
U
E

OUTGOING TOUR OPERATORS

Vacances Transat (France)
(Vacances Transat (France), 
Bennett Voyages and Brokair)
Revenues (m)
Employees
Travellers

202,000
228
167,000

231,000 
240
182,000

211,000 
220
155,000

Look Voyages
Revenues (m)
Employees
Travellers
Club Lookéa/summer3
Club Lookéa / winter3

Amplitravel
Revenues (m)
Employees
Travellers

Air Consultants Europe 

Revenues 
(commissions) (m)
Employees
Travellers

Canadian Affair

Revenues (£)
Employees
Travellers

260,000
339
284,000
32
14

235,000 
342
257,000
28
13

189,000 
309
213,000
26
12

36,500
18
113,000

44,000 
18
124,000

19,000 
19
46,000

2,300
23
49,000

3,400 
26
58,000

3,300 
23
46,000

110 ,700
77
216,000

89,700 
67
176,000

71,000 
75
161,500

INCOMING TOUR OPERATORS
AND DESTINATION SERVICES
Tourgreece
Revenues (m)
Employees
Travellers

17,800
32
80,000

19,600 
34
69,000

20,700 
30
72,000

RETAIL DISTRIBUTION
Eurocharter

Revenues 
(commissions) (m)
Employees
Outlets owned

8,500
177
63

10,300 
198
67

10,300 
191
69

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

9

 
 
i

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:
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a
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n
a
r
T

Transat A.T. Inc. is an integrated
international tour operator that
specializes in holiday travel. It
offers more than 60 destination
countries and distributes products
in approximately 50 countries.
Transat owns an air carrier, offers
accommodation and destination
services and operates an exten-
sive distribution network. A res-
ponsible company mindful of
contributing to sustainable tourism
development, Transat has a dedi-
cated team of thorough and effi-
cient people who deliver quality
vacation travel services at afford-
able prices to a broad customer
base. 

OUTGOING
TOUR OPERATORS
INCOMING

ATORS

ION

RIBUTION

AIR
TRANSPORTATION

10

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

 
OUTGOING TOUR OPERATORS

Transat Tours Canada (TTC)

Transat Holidays, Nolitours, Air Transat
Caribbean, Latin America and Mexico from Canada, 
Canada-Europe market and cruises
Rêvatours
Eastern Europe, Asia, North Africa, etc. from Canada 
Merika Tours
North American destinations from Canada

Transat Tours Canada (TTC) operates mainly under
the Transat Holidays, Nolitours and Air Transat
brands. The leading tour operator for holiday travel
between Canada and Europe, TTC also offers
Canadians year-round travel to Mexico and the
Caribbean, as well as cruise travel on all of the
world’s oceans through agreements with the best
cruise operators. TTC also offers a wide array of
tours and accommodations on both sides of the
Atlantic, including Transat as well as other partner
products.

Under the Rêvatours brand, TTC markets tours and
custom-tailored products in 30 countries in Europe,
Asia, Africa and South America. Under the Merika
Tours brand, it also offers Canadians a range of
North American destinations. 

Air Consultants Europe (ACE)
TTC’s representative in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium,
Luxembourg and Austria 
A major European partner of TTC, ACE also works
very closely with Jonview Canada to market Transat
products in Canadian destinations to travellers depart-
ing from Germany, Austria, Belgium, Luxembourg and
the Netherlands.

Look Voyages
Mediterranean basin, Africa, Asia, Caribbean, Mexico, etc.
from France

Amplitravel
Tunisia from France

Look Voyages maintains its strong performance, lever-
aging the winning formula of its Clubs Lookéa net-
work (32 resort clubs in 16 countries as of summer
2009) while diversifying its offering to include a range
of travel and tour products. A champion of the multi-
channel approach, Look Voyages controls a significant
proportion of its distribution. Look Voyages continues
to offer products, including travel to Tunisia under the
Amplitravel brand, that respond to the expectations of
a large market segment .

Vacances Transat (France)
America, Caribbean, Asia and Africa from France

Bennett
Tours in Eastern Europe, Scandinavia, Scotland and Ireland
Brokair
Group tours from France

The leading tour operator in the French market offer-
ing travel to Canada, Vacances Transat (France) also
enjoys a growing reputation as a specialist in tour
products to the four corners of the globe. Also operat-
ing under the Bennett (destinations in Northern
Europe) and Brokair (specializing in group travel)
brands, the tour operator offered 34 destination coun-
tries and partnered with some 30 carriers outbound
from France in 2009.

Canadian Affair
Canada-UK market
As the United Kingdom’s leading tour operator spe-
cializing in travel to Canada, Canadian Affair works
hand-in-hand with Transat Tours Canada, Jonview
Canada, Air Transat and Thomas Cook Airlines.

INCOMING TOUR OPERATORS
DESTINATION SERVICES
Jonview Canada (80.07%)
Tours and packages from Canada
Jonview Canada, the leading incoming tour operator
in Canada, markets its products in approximately 50
countries, not only in Europe but also in a growing
number of emerging markets.

Tourgreece (90.0%)
Tours and packages to Greece
Close to 15 million tourists visit Greece each year,
and Tourgreece handles approximately 80,000 of
them, ranking it among the largest incoming tour
operators in the country.

Trafic Tours (70.0%)
Excursions and destination services in Mexico
Turissimo (70.0%)
Excursions and destination services in Dominican Republic
Trafic Tours and Turissimo offer excursions and other
destination services to vacationers in the greater
region of Puerto Vallarta, Cancun and the Maya
Riviera, Mexico, as well as in the Dominican Republic. 

Transat Holidays USA
Destination services and travel agency in Florida

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

11

Handlex
Airport ground services in Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver
Handlex provides airport ground services (passenger
check-in, baggage and cargo handling, aircraft clean-
ing, ramp services and ground-services equipment
maintenance) to 24 carriers, including Air Transat, at
Montreal, Toronto and Vancouver international air-
ports. Handlex provided service for nearly 15,000
departures in 2009, and posted very good financial
and operational results over the fiscal year just ended.  

ACCOMMODATION

Ocean Hotels (35.0%)
Hotels in Mexico and Dominican Republic
In partnership with leading Spanish chain H10 Hotels,
Transat owns a 35% interest in a joint venture that
operates five hotels in three complexes in Mexico and
the Dominican Republic. 

RETAIL DISTRIBUTION

Transat Distribution Canada (TDC)
Network of 431 travel agencies in Canada 
(Club Voyages, Voyages en Liberté, TravelPlus, Marlin Travel) 
At year-end 2009, Transat Distribution Canada (TDC)
included 431 agencies (including 354 franchises) and
approximately 2,300 travel advisors. Sales by this
cross-Canada distribution network, all brands com-
bined, totalled $1.3 billion in 2009. 

tripcentral.ca (64.6%)
Network of22 travel agencies in Canada,tripcentral.ca 
and exitnow.ca

Eurocharter
Network of travel agencies in France 
With Eurocharter, we operate approximately 60 travel
agencies in France. In 2010, 35 of these agencies will
be placed under the responsibility of Look Voyages
and will become members of the AFAT Voyages
Sélectour network. .  

AIR TRANSPORTATION

Air Transat
Charter air carrier specializing in holiday travel
Air Transat operates a fleet of 18 aircraft (13 Airbus
A310s and 5 Airbus A330s). Its on-time, fleet-reliability
and fuel-management performance remain among
the best in the industry. Several factors combine to
make Air Transat a first-rate airline in its category: its
qualified, friendly cabin crews, an outstanding pro-
gram for young families, its Club Class, etc.

Unless otherwise indicated, Transat A.T. Inc. holds a 100% interest 

in all business units.

12

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

y
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e
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C

Since 2007, one of our priorities as a company has
been improving our performance in the area of corpo-
rate social responsibility and sustainable tourism.
While developing constructive dialogue with our
stakeholders, we are gradually incorporating exem-
plary practices into all spheres of our operations, and
encouraging our partners to do likewise. In keeping
with the principles of sustainable development, our
ambition is to reconcile economic development, envi-
ronmental stewardship and respect for local popula-
tions. We adopted our Policy for Sustainable Tourism
in June 2008, and published an initial corporate social
responsibility report in January 2009.

During fiscal 2009, we continued work on an internal
environmental footprint report begun in 2008, and on
an action plan with associated performance indica-
tors. Judging from the progress accomplished thus
far, we believe that our environmental record in fiscal
2009 will prove sufficiently reliable to serve as a
benchmark for subsequent years. At the same time,
progress has been made on the Air Transat LEED-EB
certification project, and we have continued our actions
in responsible resource management by practicingre-
use, recycling and recovery of waste materials.

Air Transat continues to demonstrate a good track
record when it comes to greenhouse gas emissions,
thanks mainly to its fuel-management program—
which has been constantly improved since it was first
implemented in 2003—and very high load factors.

CO 2 emissions linked to Air Transat flights
(November 1 to October 31)

Total  
CO2 emissions
(tonnes)

1,139,773
1,137,629
1,013,970

2009
2008
2007

Fuel consumption (L) and  
CO2 emissions (kg) 
(per passenger per 100 km)

3.28 litres (8.30 kg)
3.26 litres (8.25 kg)
3.17 litres (8.02 kg)

The year-over-year increases in total emissions are attributable to
the increased numbers of flights. The increase in fuel consumption
per passenger per 100 km, from 2007 to 2008, and from 2008 to
2009, is mainly attributable to the reduction in the number of seats
on board aircraft in 2008.

We have drawn up an action plan to encourage our
partners in the hotel industry to adopt more responsi-
ble practices. The plan will be rolled out in 2010 in the
form of a pilot project involving about 100 hoteliers. 
As part of development of this project, Transat has
improved its knowledge of responsible hotel manage-
ment, thanks in part to a study on hotel certification
schemes conducted in 2009 by the Transat Chair in
Tourism at Université du Québec à Montréal.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

13

 
 
Under our program to support sustainable tourism
projects sponsored by communities and non-profit
organizations, we funded initiatives in Turkey, Mexico,
Morocco and Peru in 2009. Since 2007, we have sup-
ported 12 local initiatives in 8 different countries,
investing a total of nearly half a million dollars. These
projects, many of which would not have seen the light
of day without Transat’s backing, share the common
goal of stimulating local economic activity from a sus-
tainable development perspective.

On the humanitarian causes front, we signed a three-
year partnership agreement with SOS Children’s
Villages, an organization that has been working with
orphaned and abandoned children since 1949. SOS
Children’s Villages is active in 132 countries.

Philanthropic contributions in 2009 

Fund Allocation

The Children’s 
Wish Foundation 

Other

Sustainable tourism
projects at destination 

Humanitarian (International)

Humanitarian (Canada)

Source of Funds

Customers 

Employees

54%

20%

5%

6%

15%

50%

13%

We played a very active role in the promotion of sus-
37%
Transat and subsidiaries 
tainable tourism during 2009. Initiatives testifying to
this include our participation in the work of the 

Tourism Industry Association of Canada (TIAC) and
the Tour Operators’ Initiative for the Sustainable
Development of Tourism (TOI), as well as the creation
of the Transat Prize in Sustainable Tourism as part of
the Grands Prix du tourisme québécois.

We have stepped up our efforts to raise staff and cus-
tomer awareness of the issues of sustainable develop-
ment. The tools deployed to this end include our 
corporate social responsibility report, published in
January 2009, as well as our tour operators’
brochures, in-flight magazine, websites, and a video
that has been shown in our aircraft since June 2009. 

The strength of a great team

At Transat, we believe our organization must constant-
ly evolve. First of all, because we need to be able to
adjust to our rapidly changing business environment.
Second, because an organization, just like its mem-
bers, must be prepared to renew itself and to learn if
it is to progress.

A learning organization must have a wide array of
tools and opportunities at its disposal for develop-
ment of its personnel, and be capable of making the
most of each individual’s expertise, knowledge, and
experience.

With this in mind, we have implemented a training
program for first-level managers (150 participants) as
well as a certificate program in organizational man-
agement for our Canada-based staff (90 participants).
We have also developed online Transat skills training
tools, and set up co-development groups that allow
employees to share their knowledge and experience,
as well as their thoughts on topics of concern to
them.

In multiplying the possibilities for development and
facilitating interactions amongst the greatest possible
number of people across our different business units,
we also seek to nurture a global vision of the compa-
ny in a growing number of our employees and 
managers. 

We have created a Web-based tool that integrates var-
ious online training activities to help managers map
out realistic development plans with their employees.
Designed to encourage discussion and exchanges,
this tool enables real-time tracking of development
plans via a system of e-mail alerts.

We have also developed similar approaches for per-
formance assessment as well as for integrating and
guiding new employees. 

At Transat, we are convinced that increased interac-
tions among our employees help foster an enthusiasm
that can only enhance the organization’s agility in
adapting to the changes set in motion two years ago
to capitalize on the strength of a great team.

14

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

l

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M

i

OVERVIEW 

CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS  

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

OTHER

ACCOUNTING

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

OUTLOOK

18

21

27

29

30

35

35

37

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

15

 
 
 
The reader is cautioned that the foregoing list of factors is
not exhaustive of the factors that may affect any of the
Corporation’s forward-looking statements. The reader is also
cautioned to consider these and other factors carefully and
not to put undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

The Corporation made a number of assumptions in making
forward-looking statements in this MD&A such as certain
economic, market, operational and financial assumptions
and assumptions about transactions and forward-looking
statements. 

Examples of such forward-looking statements include, but
are not limited to, statements concerning:
• The outlook whereby the Corporation should have the

resources it needs to meet its 2010 objectives and contin-
ue building on its long-term strategies.

• The outlook whereby our 2010 revenues and total vol-
ume of travellers are expected to outpace 2009 levels.
• The outlook whereby the Corporation expects to gener-
ate positive cash flows from operating activities in 2010.

• The outlook whereby additions to property, plant and

equipment and intangible assets are expected to range
from $35.0 million to $45.0 million.

• The outlook whereby the Corporation will be able to

meet its obligations with cash on hand, cash flows from
operations and drawdowns under existing credit facili-
ties.

• The outlook whereby the Corporation expects to capital-

ize on lower input costs.

In making these statements, the Corporation has assumed,
among other things, that travellers will continue to travel,
that credit facilities will continue to be made available as in
the past, that management will continue to manage
changes in cash flows to fund working capital requirements
for the full fiscal year and that fuel prices, and hotel and
other destination-based costs will hold steady. If these
assumptions prove incorrect, actual results and develop-
ments may differ materially from those contemplated by the
forward-looking statements contained in this MD&A.

The Corporation considers the assumptions on which these
forward-looking statements are based to be reasonable. 

These statements reflect current expectations regarding
future events and operating performance and speak only as
of the date of release of this MD&A, and represent the
Corporation’s expectations as of that date. The Corporation
disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any
forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new
information, future events or otherwise, other than as
required by applicable securities legislation.

This Management’s Discussion and Analysis (MD&A) pro-
vides a review of Transat A.T. Inc.’s operations, performance
and financial position for the year ended October 31, 2009,
compared with the year ended October 31, 2008, and
should be read in conjunction with the audited Consolidated
Financial Statements and notes thereto beginning on page
38. The information contained herein is dated as of January
13, 2010. You will find more information about us on
Transat’s website at www.transat.com and on SEDAR at
www.sedar.com, including the Attest Reports for the year
ended October 31, 2009 and Annual Information Form.

Our financial statements are prepared in accordance with
Canadian generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
We will occasionally refer to non-GAAP financial measures
in the MD&A. These non-GAAP financial measures have 
no meaning prescribed by GAAP and are therefore unlikely
to be comparable to similar measures reported by other
issuers. They are furnished to provide additional information
and should not be considered as a substitute for measures
of performance prepared in accordance with GAAP. All dollar
figures are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise indicated.
The terms “Transat,” “we,” “us,” “our” and the “Corporation”
mean Transat A.T. Inc. and its subsidiaries, unless otherwise
indicated.

The 2008 and 2007 figures have been reclassified, where
necessary, to reflect changes in accounting policies regard-
ing the recognition of goodwill and intangible assets,
adjustments to the carrying amount of an investment and
reclassification of amounts of cash and cash equivalents
reserved as non-current, made as of November 1, 2008 
and summarized in note 3 to the Consolidated Financial
Statements.

CAUTION REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This MD&A contains certain forward-looking statements
with respect to the Corporation. These forward-looking
statements are identified by the use of terms and phrases
such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,”
“intend,” “may,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,”
“will,” “would,” the negative of these terms and similar ter-
minology, including references to assumptions. All such
statements are made pursuant to applicable Canadian secu-
rities legislation. Such statements may involve but are not
limited to comments with respect to strategies, expecta-
tions, planned operations or future actions. 

Forward-looking statements, by their nature, necessarily
involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual
results to differ materially from those contemplated by
these forward-looking statements. Results indicated in for-
ward-looking statements may differ materially from actual
results for a number of reasons, including without limita-
tion, extreme weather conditions, fuel prices, armed con-
flicts, terrorist attacks, general industry, market and eco-
nomic conditions, disease outbreaks, changes in demand
due to the seasonal nature of the business, the ability to
reduce operating costs and employee counts, labour rela-
tions, collective bargaining and labour disputes, pension
issues, exchange and interest rates, availability of financing
in the future, changes in laws, adverse regulatory develop-
ments or procedures, pending litigation and actions by third
parties, and other risks detailed from time to time in the
Corporation’s continuous disclosure documents.

16

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

(In thousands of dollars)

Consolidated Statements of Income
Revenues
Margin2
Net income (loss)
Basic earnings (loss) per share
Diluted earnings (loss) per share
Dividend – Class A and Class B shares

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
Operating activities
Investing activities
Financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash 

and cash equivalents

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

Consolidated Balance Sheets
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents in trust or otherwise 

reserved (short-term and long-term)

Investments in ABCP

Total assets
Debt (short-term and long-term)
Total debt2
Net debt2

2009

$

2008
Restated1
$

2007
Restated1
$

Variance
2009
%

3,545,341
93,395
61,847
1.86
1.85
0.09

45,234
(26,662)
18,303

(2,090)
34,785

3,512,851
127,768
(49,394)
(1.49)
(1.49)
0.36

95,069
(142,027)
15,091

10,866
(21,001)

3,045,917
136,347
77,822
2.30
2.28
0.34

156,728
(195,657)
(14,830)

5,640
(48,119)

As at October 31
2009

$

As at October 31
2008
Restated1
$

As at October 31
2007
Restated1
$

180,552

145,767

166,768

272,726
71,401

1,129,503
110,840
507,273
255,320

256,697
86,595

1,267,214
153,241
450,335
217,973

168,196
142,346

1,072,377
91,837
371,146
62,032

0.9
(26.9)
225.2
224.8
224.2
(75.0)

(52.4)
81.2
21.3

(119.2)
265.6

Variance
2009
%

23.9

6.2
(17.5)

(10.9)
(27.7)
12.6
17.1

Variance
2008
%

15.3
(6.3)
(163.5)
(164.8)
(165.4)
5.9

(39.3)
27.4
201.8

92.7
56.4

Variance
2008
%

(12.6)

52.6
(39.2)

18.2
66.9
21.3
251.4

1NEW ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND OTHER CHANGES
See New accounting policies and other changes.

2NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
The terms “margin,” “total debt” and “net debt” have no stan-
dard definition prescribed by Canadian GAAP and are therefore
unlikely to be comparable to similar measures reported by other
issuers. However, these terms are presented on a consistent
basis from year to year, as management uses them to measure
the Corporation’s financial performance. 

Margin is used by management to assess Transat’s ongoing and
recurring operational performance. This term is represented 
by revenues less operating expenses, according to the Audited
Consolidated Statements of Income.

Total debt is used by management to assess the Corporation’s
future cash requirements. It represents the combination of bal-
ance sheet debt (long-term debt and debenture) and operating
lease obligations, presented on p.28.

Net debt is used by management to assess the Corporation’s
cash position. It represents the total debt (as discussed above)
less cash and cash equivalents not held in trust or otherwise
reserved, and investments in asset backed commercial paper
[“ABCP”]. 

Margin, total debt and net debt should not be considered sepa-
rately or as a substitute for financial performance measures 
calculated in accordance with GAAP, but rather as additional
information.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

17

OVERVIEW

HOLIDAY TRAVEL INDUSTRY 
The “holiday travel” industry consists mainly of tour operators,
traditional and online travel agencies, destination service
providers or hotel operators, and air carriers. Each of these sub-
sectors includes companies with different operating models. 

Generally, “outgoing” tour operators purchase the various com-
ponents of a trip locally or abroad and sell them separately or in
packages to consumers in their local markets, generally through
travel agencies. “Incoming” tour operators design travel pack-
ages or other travel products consisting of services they pur-
chase in their local market for sale in foreign markets, generally
through other tour operators or travel agencies. Destination
service providers are based at destination and sell a range of
optional services to travellers onsite for spontaneous consump-
tion, such as excursions or sightseeing tours. These companies
also provide outgoing tour operators with logistical support serv-
ices, such as ground transfers between airports and hotels.
Travel agencies, operating independently or in networks, are dis-
tributors serving as intermediaries between tour operators and
consumers. Air carriers sell seats through travel agencies or
directly to tour operators, who use them in building packages.

CORE BUSINESS, VISION AND STRATEGY
CORE BUSINESS
Transat is one of the largest fully integrated world-class tour
operators in North America. We operate solely in the holiday
travel industry and market our services mainly in the Americas
and Europe. As a tour operator, Transat’s core business involves
developing and marketing holiday travel services in package and
air-only formats. We operate as both outgoing and incoming tour
operator by bundling services bought in Canada and abroad and
reselling them in Canada, France, the U.K. and in 10 other coun-
tries, mainly through travel agencies, some of which we own
(as in France and Canada). Transat is also a major retail distribu-
tor with a total of approximately 500 travel agencies (including
354 franchisees) and a multi-channel distribution system incor-
porating Web-based sales. Since 2008, Transat has held an inter-
est in a hotel business owning and operating properties in
Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Transat relies on 60 air car-
riers, but primarily on its subsidiary Air Transat for a large portion
of its needs. Transat also offers destination and airport services.  

VISION
According to the World Tourism Organization, there were some
922 million international tourists in 2008. This market is expected
to continue expanding despite the predictable decline in 2009.
Transat’s vision is to become a leading player in the Americas
and build strong competitive positioning in several European
countries by 2014. At present, we are a market leader in Canada,
operating as an outgoing and incoming tour operator. We are a
well-established outgoing tour operator in France and the U.K.
and an incoming tour operator in Greece. We offer our cus-
tomers a broad range of international destinations spanning
some 60 countries. Over time, we intend to expand our busi-
ness to other countries where we believe there is high growth
potential for an integrated tour operator specializing in holiday
travel.  

STRATEGY
To deliver on its vision, from 2009 to 2011, the Corporation
intends to continue optimizing synergies from vertical integra-
tion, which sets it apart from competitors, growing its market
share in France, where it ranks among largest tour operators
and tap into new markets or expanding its presence in markets

in which it currently has a smaller footprint. To increase its buy-
ing power for its traditional destinations, Transat is targeting
new markets with potential demand for these routes.

With regard to vertical integration, the key growth drivers are
multichannel distribution, which Transat will continue developing
by expanding its physical market presence and by investing in
technological solutions to better meet the increasingly varied
expectations of consumers through a heightened presence at
destination, either in the form of hotels, incoming tour operators
or destination-based service providers.

Alongside these initiatives, Transat intends to leverage targeted
technology investments and efficiency gains from changes to its
internal management structure to grow its margin and market
share in all its markets. Cost management remains a core
strategic issue in light of the tourism industry’s slim margins.
On this front, the Corporation’s move in 2009 to transition Air
Transat’s fleet to a single model (from the current two) by 2013
is expected to generate significant savings. Moreover, under an
agreement entered into in 2009, Transat gained flexible access
to third-party narrow-bodied aircraft over the next five years,
yielding it further financial advantages for the Corporation. 

Transat acknowledges the growing strategic importance of sus-
tainable development in the holiday and air travel industries. This
phenomenon, heightened by the anticipated growth in tourism
and air travel, manifests itself in various ways, particularly
through regulations and tariffs on greenhouse gas emissions
and higher customer and investor expectations in this area.
Given this trend and the vested interest tourism companies
have in seeing the environment protected and destination com-
munities remaining amenable to tourism, Transat took a marked
shift in 2006 in adopting avant-garde policies on corporate
responsibility and sustainable tourism. In doing so, the Corpora-
tion targets the following benefits, in particular: lower resource
consumption, with the associated cost savings; brand differenti-
ation and greater customer loyalty, potentially boosting our com-
mercial benefits; and enhanced employee loyalty and motivation.

For fiscal 2010, Transat has set the following targets:
• Expand our leadership market position on both sides of the
Atlantic via a broader offering of products and destination-
based services by stepping up multichannel distribution and
controlling costs, while providing enhanced customer experi-
ence.

• Complete the integration of new management teams, foster
teaming and promote a strong sense of cohesion among the
new subsidiary entities and head office so as to meet our
business objectives sooner.

• Pursue development and implementation of new information
systems to step up operating efficiency and provide us with
greater flexibility in developing our offering.

• Maintain our initiatives to position Transat as an industry

leader in corporate responsibility and sustainable tourism to
play a key role in shaping our future market, secure employ-
ee buy-in and generate a competitive edge for Transat.

18

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

REVIEW OF 2009 OBJECTIVES AND ACHIEVEMENTS

The main goals and achievements for fiscal 2009 are detailed as
follows:

We have actively pursued upgrades to our information systems,
including the implementation of a sales platform for custom-tai-
lored products.

1.  Increase efficiency, productivity, competitiveness and

flexibility within the organization through stringent man-
agement of costs and targeted investments that will max-
imize resources; this should be achieved by strategically
combining short-term results with a long-term vision,
without compromising the quality of customer service.

• Maintain our cost control and reduction programs, particular-
ly through process reviews, seek greater synergies between
departments or business entities, reengineer administrative,
operating or organizational structures, as well as risk man-
agement.

• Actively pursue our employee retention, training and motiva-

tion programs; emphasize the process of indentifying, 
managing and developing talent and the next generation of
leaders.

• Invest in technological solutions to support highly effective
revenue stream management, distribution and financial 
planning.

As a result of acting very early in the year to implement margin
safeguards, the Corporation successfully met its income before
income tax and interest target, despite only modest revenue
growth. The main cutbacks consisted of a hiring freeze, the
streamlining of certain processes, and reduced airline seat and
marketing costs.

In Canada, we have fully integrated the Finance and Administra-
tion, Human Resources and Information Systems Management
functions, and streamlined certain processes. We have set up
Transat France, a structure with a single management team
overseeing the Finance, Legal, Information Systems and Human
Resources functions. In so doing, we have enhanced our effec-
tiveness, reduced our cost structure and facilitated the imple-
mentation and pursuit of a shared vision.

We entered into an agreement with carrier CanJet Airlines to
charter narrow-bodied aircraft to serve our sun destinations,
replacing a similar contract dating back to 2003. The new agree-
ment made a favourable contribution as of summer 2009, which
will grow in the winter season. We also entered into an agree-
ment with French carrier XL Airways, which will charter one of
Air Transat’s aircraft for the 2010 winter season to serve our
French tour operators, which will generate significant savings.

We have adopted a transition plan for Air Transat’s fleet, with
implementation now underway. Consisting of 18 wide-body jets
(Airbus A330s and A310s), the fleet should solely be made up of
Airbus A330s within approximately four years, giving rise to
reduced operating costs. 

The structure of the Human Resources function has been opti-
mized to better suit our organizational needs. The reorganization
focused on three areas of excellence: hiring, organizational
development and labour relations. We implemented an entry-
level management development program and are continuing our
accelerated training program with key employees. The review of
our incentive and group insurance programs will provide us with
an opportunity to enhance our employment package and foster
employee loyalty.

2. Strengthen our leadership position as an outgoing tour
operator, maintaining or increasing our market share by
differentiating our offering, maximizing exclusive prod-
ucts, launching new products and broadening our reach
by building on the bilateral distribution approach we
have developed.

• In Canada, for destinations in the South, remain competitive
with a value-added offering, actively seek synergies in the
distribution network and maximize profitability of destination-
based services.

• For the transatlantic market, further expand our offering with
new destinations in Europe, increase route frequencies and
maximize cooperation between business entities.

• For routes departing from France, step up business activity

on the long-haul routes of Vacances Transat; for Look
Voyages, continue growing the Clubs Lookéa, further devel-
op seaside resort products for major destinations; develop
regional coverage for both tour operators.

To better serve the South market in winter, we added seven
new routes departing from Canada, recording a 17.7% rise in
the volume of travellers. In the European market, we added four
new routes and a new destination (Venice). We revamped and
adjusted the product offering of Rêvatours, departing from
Canada, and entered into an original agreement with GAP
Adventures.

In airline developments, we launched Kiloflex (discount on lug-
gage overages on advance purchase) and Option Plus (a range
of additional services at check-in and onboard). 

While Vacances Transat (France) reported a decline in revenues
in 2009 due to a lull in long-haul passenger traffic, it was almost
completely offset by a rise in the volume of travellers at Look
Voyages, which operates short- and medium-haul routes.

As regards destination-based services in Mexico and the
Dominican Republic, the significant decline in the volume of
travellers to Mexico in the second quarter (due to the flu pan-
demic) was offset by the contribution of new customers, such
that profitability improved from 2008.

3. Continue developing and implementing our multi-

channel distribution strategy and increase sales for each 
channel.

• In France, integrate the Look Voyages agencies more closely
the tour operator and develop integrated business strategies
that maximize synergies.

• In Canada, increase the number of traditional agencies, their
productivity and their sales of Transat products; achieve clos-
er ties with national chains. 

• Speed up development of the online direct sales platform.

We developed a plan calling for the integration of 35 of our
French travel agencies into Look Voyages in 2010; the remaining
28 agencies will be sold or closed.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

19

MARGIN
Generate margins higher than 5%.

ABILITY TO DELIVER ON OUR OBJECTIVES
Our ability to deliver on our objectives is dependent on our
financial and non-financial resources, both of which have con-
tributed in the past to the success of our strategies and
achievement of our objectives.

Our financial resources are as follows:

Cash
Our balances of cash and cash equivalents not held in trust
or otherwise reserved totalled $180.6 million as at October
31, 2009. Our continued focus on expense reductions and
margin increases should maintain these balances at healthy
levels. In addition, we hold investments in ABCP with a fair
value and a notional value of $71.4 million and $128.8 million,
respectively, as at October 31, 2009.  

Credit facilities
We have revolving term credit facilities currently totalling
$255.2 million, up for renewal in 2013, of which $78.0 million
was drawn down as at October 31, 2009.   

Our non-financial resources include:

Brand
The Corporation has taken the necessary steps to foster a
distinctive brand image and raise its profile, including its sus-
tainable tourism approach.

Structure
Our vertically integrated structure enables us to ensure better
quality control of our products and services. 

Employees 
In recent years, we have intensified our efforts to build a uni-
fied corporate culture based on a clear vision and shared val-
ues. As a result, our employees work together as a team and
are committed to ensuring overall customer satisfaction and
contributing to improving the Corporation’s effectiveness.
Moreover, we believe the Corporation is managed by a sea-
soned leadership team.  

Supply relationships 
We have exclusive access to certain hotels at sunshine desti-
nations as well as over 20 years of privileged relationships
with many hotels at these destinations and in Europe.

Transat has the resources it needs to meet its 2010 objectives
and continue building on its long-term strategies.

Transat expanded the footprint of Canada’s largest distribution
network, consisting of 453 travel agencies, 431 of which are part
of Transat Distribution Canada, including 354 franchisees. Our
online travel agency, exitnow.ca, now falls under tripcentral.ca
for greater efficiency. “Controlled” sales across the Transat net-
work were up in both Canada and France.

We developed and have begun implementing a new technologi-
cal platform in Canada and France to considerably expand our
custom-tailored product offering.

4. Develop and implement a sustainable tourism plan that
will position Transat at the forefront of the industry,
increase its influence over the future of our market and
inspire buy-in by employees, suppliers and customers.

• Maintain initiatives to revamp internal processes and adopt

responsible management best practices.

• Step up awareness and internal and external communica-

tions programs, while playing a more active role in industry
developments.

We continued developing an internal environmental responsibili-
ty report and an action plan that hinges on a series of indicators
selected by us. Our initiatives are based on driving down resource
consumption and promoting a reuse, recycle and reclaim model,
and a project to secure LEED-EB certification continued at Air
Transat. We developed a sustainable tourism promotion program
targeting hotel operators for implementation in 2010.

In connection with our support program for destination-based
sustainable tourism projects, we green-lighted assistance for
projects in Turkey, Mexico, Morocco and Peru. Since 2007, we
have supported 12 local initiatives in 8 countries, representing
financial commitments totalling nearly $500,000. Moreover, we
renewed our community outreach program, in particular by
entering into a partnership with SOS Children’s Villages, an NGO
serving orphaned and abandoned children in 132 countries.

With respect to involvement in industry organizations, we partic-
ipate in the deliberations of the Tourism Industry Association of
Canada (TIAC), the Tour Operators’ Initiative (TOI) for Sustainable
Tourism Development and actively supported other awareness
initiatives, such as the Responsible Travel and Tourism Forum
and the International Symposium on Sustainable Tourism
Development.

We stepped up awareness initiatives targeting employees and
customers through our Social Responsibility Report, issued in
2009, as well as through tour operator brochures, travel litera-
ture, our in-flight magazine, websites, etc.

KEY PERFORMANCE DRIVERS
The following key performance drivers are essential to the suc-
cessful implementation of our strategy and to the achievement
of our objectives:

MARKET SHARE
Remain the leader in Canada in all provinces and increase
market share in Ontario, across the rest of the country and
in Europe.

REVENUE GROWTH
Grow revenues by more than 5%, excluding acquisitions.

20

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

CONSOLIDATED OPERATIONS

REVENUES
We derive our revenues from outgoing tour operators, air trans-
portation, travel agencies, distribution, incoming tour operators
and services at travel destinations.

Our overall revenue growth of 0.9% was driven by increases in
Europe and the Americas of 1.7% and 0.6%, respectively. Our
volume of travellers was up 1.6%, compared with the previous
year, owing to growth in the Americas and Europe of 0.2% and
5.9%, respectively. In the Americas, selling prices trended gen-
erally lower in 2009 due to intense competition arising from
excess supply. In Europe, the rise stemmed primarily from U.K.
revenue growth, whereas revenues from our other European
subsidiaries, primarily in France, were generally flat or lower. 

Our 2010 revenues and total volume of travellers are expected
to outpace 2009 levels. In light of economic conditions and
excess market capacity, we expect the environment to remain
highly competitive throughout fiscal 2010. 

OPERATING EXPENSES
Our operating expenses consist mainly of direct costs (primarily
third-party seat and hotel room costs), salaries and employee
benefits, aircraft fuel, commissions, aircraft maintenance, airport
and navigation fees, and aircraft rent. Approximately 30% of our
operating expenses are payable in U.S. dollars.

The 2.0% growth in operating expenses stemmed from increas-
es in operating expenses in the Americas and Europe of 1.5%
and 3.2%, respectively, owing primarily to greater business
activity and the euro’s strength against the dollar. As a percent-
age of revenues, operating expenses rose slightly to 97.4%
from 96.4% in 2008.

DIRECT COSTS
Direct costs are incurred by our tour operators. They include
hotel room costs and the cost of reserving blocks of seats or

full flights with air carriers other than Air Transat. In 2009, these
costs represented 58.2% of revenues, up from 55.0% in 2008.
Direct costs were up 6.7% compared with the fiscal year ended
October 31, 2008. This increase was mainly driven by our winter
season results, which reflected greater business activity and a
weaker Canadian dollar relative to the euro and the U.S. dollar,
and to a lesser degree, greater business activity in Europe, par-
ticularly in the U.K.

During the year, we entered into a five-year agreement with
Canadian air carrier CanJet Airlines for the chartering of its next-
generation narrow-bodied Boeing 737-800s for sun destinations
served from Canada. The agreement with CanJet was negotiat-
ed under more beneficial terms than the prior arrangement with
WestJet Airlines dating back to 2003, which it replaced. The
agreement considerably strengthens our market positioning for
routes to the South. Its positive impact, already apparent in
summer 2009, is expected to grow in the winter season.

SALARIES AND EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
Salaries and employee benefits rose $14.9 million or 4.3% to
$364.6 million. The increase was mainly due to a higher bonus
expense under short-term variable compensation programs than
in 2008 and annual salary increases, as well as the addition of
two aircraft to our fleet during fiscal 2008 and greater business
activities during the winter season.

AIRCRAFT FUEL
Aircraft fuel costs fell $46.2 million or 12.7% during the year,
owing primarily to lower fuel prices than in 2008. As a result of
its fuel risk management policy, the Corporation was unable to
fully capitalize on the decline in fuel prices.

COMMISSIONS
Commissions include the fees paid by tour operators to travel
agencies for serving as intermediaries between tour operators
and consumers. Commission expense totalled $177.2 million, up
1.4% from fiscal 2008. As a percentage of revenues, commis-
sions held steady at 5.0%. 

REVENUES BY GEOGRAPHIC AREAS

(In thousands of dollars)

Americas
Europe

2009
$

2,552,348
992,993
3,545,341

2008
$

2,536,831
976,020
3,512,851

2007
$

2,278,116
767,801
3,045,917

Variance
2009
%

0.6
1.7
0.9

Variance
2008
%

11.4
27.1
15.3

OPERATING EXPENSES

(In thousands of dollars)

Direct costs
Salaries and 

employee benefits

Aircraft fuel
Commissions
Aircraft maintenance
Airport and navigation fees
Aircraft rent
Other
Total

2009

$

2008
Restated
$

2007
Restated
$

2,062,626

1,933,706

1,601,652

364,642
319,224
177,166
89,896
90,611
54,287
293,494
3,451,946

349,746
365,457
174,740
97,842
90,624
48,628
324,340
3,385,083

334,973
273,614
186,686
76,099
86,594
48,883
301,069
2,909,570

% of revenues

Variance

2009
%

58.2

10.3
9.0
5.0
2.5
2.6
1.5
8.3
97.4

2008
%

55.0

10.0
10.4
5.0
2.8
2.6
1.4
9.2
96.4

2007
%

52.6

11.0
9.0
6.1
2.5
2.8
1.6
9.9
95.5

2009
%

6.7

4.3
(12.7)
1.4
(8.1)
0.0
11.6
(9.5)
2.0

2008
%

20.7

4.4
33.6
(6.4)
28.6
4.7
(0.5)
7. 7
16.3

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

21

AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE
Aircraft maintenance costs consist mainly of engine and airframe
maintenance expenses incurred by Air Transat. These costs fell
$7.9 million or 8.1% during the year compared with 2008. This
decrease resulted in part from the extension of certain aircraft
leases, resulting in the amortization of certain maintenance
costs over longer periods than initially planned and from the
Canadian dollar’s appreciation against its U.S. counterpart.

AIRPORT AND NAVIGATION FEES
Airport and navigation fees consist mainly of fees charged by
airports. These fees remained unchanged from 2008.

AIRCRAFT RENT
Aircraft rent rose $5.7 million or 11.6% during the year, owing
primarily to the two aircraft added to the fleet in fiscal 2008 and
the strength of the U.S. dollar against the Canadian unit com-
pared to the previous year.

OTHER
Other operating expenses fell $30.8 million or 9.5% during the
year, compared with 2008, resulting mainly from lower market-
ing costs and professional fees. As a percentage of revenues,
other expenses dropped to 8.3% in 2009 from 9.2% in 2008.

MARGIN
In light of the foregoing, the Corporation recorded a margin of
$93.4 million compared with $127.8 million in the previous year.
As a percentage of revenues, our margins narrowed to 2.6% in
2009 from 3.6% in 2008. Our lower margin resulted mainly
from our winter season results, which reflected greater down-
ward pressure on selling prices.

GEOGRAPHIC AREAS
AMERICAS
In the Americas, revenues were up $93.5 million or 6.0% in the
winter season compared with 2008. This growth was driven by
a 6.0% overall increase in the volume of travellers. During the
2009 winter season, we offered more seats to sun destinations
and fewer seats to Florida. These changes translated into a
17.7% increase in the volume of winter season travellers for sun
destinations compared with the same season of 2008. Our win-
ter season margin stood at 2.4%, compared with 5.8% in 2008.
This slimmer margin stemmed primarily from lower selling
prices, mainly for destinations in the Caribbean and Mexico, due
to excess supply in the marketplace and what continues to be a
highly competitive environment. 

For the summer season, revenues were down 8.0%, owing pri-
marily to a 7.5% decline in the volume of travellers and lower
average selling prices than in 2008, prompted by the drop in
fuel prices. This decrease also resulted from Canadian Affair
having carried out a portion of the sales on our Canada-U.K.
routes departing from Canada. These sales were practically
entirely derived from Air Transat and therefore recorded in the
Americas. Owing in part to a higher passenger load factor in
summer 2009, our margin grew to 3.3% from a negative margin
of 1.5% in the same season in 2008.

EUROPE
In Europe, revenues were up $50.3 million or 16.6% in the win-
ter season compared with 2008. This growth, as well as higher
operating expenses, stemmed in particular from the euro’s
strength against the Canadian dollar. The volume of travellers
rose 6.6% during the winter season compared with 2008. Our
European operations reported a negative margin of $9.5 million
or 2.7% compared with a negative margin of $1.3 million or
0.4% in 2008. Slimmer margins in Europe resulted in particular
from higher seat costs, owing primarily to our fuel hedging posi-
tions, compared with 2008.

AMERICAS

(In thousands of dollars)

Winter season

Summer season

EUROPE

(In thousands of dollars)

Winter season

Summer season

Revenues
Operating expenses
Margin
Margin (%)

Revenues
Operating expenses
Margin
Margin (%)

Revenues
Operating expenses
Margin
Margin (%)

Revenues
Operating expenses
Margin
Margin (%)

22

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

2009

$

1,653,636
1,613,468
40,168
2.4

898,712
869,276
29,436
3.3

2008
Restated
$

1,560,186
1,468,934
91,252
5.8

976,645
991,767
(15,122)
(1.5)

2007
Restated
$

1,375,092
1,276,402
98,690
7.2

903,024
881,918
21,106
2.3

2009

$

352,695
362,231
(9,536)
(2.7)

640,298
606,971
33,327
5.2

2008
Restated
$

302,361
303,624
(1,263)
(0.4)

673,659
620,758
52,901
7.9

2007
Restated
$

248,645
250,059
(1,414)
(0.6)

519,156
501,191
17,965
3.5

Variance
2009
%

6.0
9.8
(56.0)
(58.5)

(8.0)
(12.3)
294.7
320.0

Variance
2009
%

16.6 
19.3
(655.0)
(575.0)

(5.0)
(2.2)
(37.0)
(34.2)

Variance
2008
%

13.5
15.1
(7.5)
(18.5)

8.2
12.5
(171.6)
(166.3)

Variance
2008
%

21.6
21.4
10.7
(33.3)

29.8
23.9
194.5
126.9

Revenues for the summer season were down $33.4 million or
5.0% despite a 5.6% rise in the volume of travellers. This
decrease resulted mainly from lower demand and selling prices
on long-haul routes, particularly in France, due to economic con-
ditions and influenza A (H1N1). In the United Kingdom, we
reported higher volumes of travellers and revenues compared
with 2008 due to a portion of sales having been carried out by
Canadian Affair on routes departing from Canada to the U.K.
Our European operations reported a margin of $33.3 million or
5.2% for the summer season compared with $52.9 million or
7.9% in 2008. 

OTHER EXPENSES (REVENUES)
AMORTIZATION
Amortization includes amortization on property, plant and equip-
ment, intangible assets subject to amortization, deferred lease
inducements and deferred gains on options. Amortization
expense was down $5.0 million, or 8.9% in fiscal 2009, owing
mainly to the amortization of the initial fair value of option-based
mechanisms, amounting to $4.2 million, enabling the Corpora-
tion to use its ABCP to repay a portion of the drawdowns under
certain credit facilities as they fall due and the decline in amorti-
zation of property, plant and equipment, compared with 2008.  

INTEREST ON LONG-TERM DEBT AND DEBENTURE
Interest on long-term debt and the debenture was down $2.7
million in 2009 compared with 2008, resulting from more
favourable interest rates despite higher average debt balances
than in 2008.  

OTHER INTEREST AND FINANCIAL EXPENSES
Other interest and financial expenses were up $0.9 million or
52.4% in 2009 compared with the previous year. These increas-
es resulted primarily from interest charges related to prior year
income tax assessments affecting a number of our subsidiaries.

INTEREST INCOME
Interest income was down $11.6 million or 71.6% for the year
compared with 2008, owing primarily to lower interest rates in
2009 than in 2008, despite generally higher average balances of
cash and cash equivalents.

CHANGE IN FAIR VALUE OF DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL
INSTRUMENTS USED FOR AIRCRAFT FUEL PURCHASES
The change in fair value of derivative financial instruments used
for aircraft fuel purchases represents the change in fair value for
the year of derivative financial instruments held and used by the
Corporation to manage its exposure to fuel price volatility.
Compared with the previous year, the change in fair value of
derivative financial instruments used for aircraft fuel purchases
reflected a $174.7 million increase. 

FOREIGN EXCHANGE LOSS (GAIN) ON LONG-TERM 
MONETARY ITEMS
The foreign exchange gain on long-term monetary items for the
year amounted to $0.1 million, owing mainly to the favourable
effect of foreign exchange rates on the long-term debt used in
connection with aircraft financing. 

LOSS (GAIN) ON INVESTMENTS IN ABCP
RESTRUCTURING
On January 21, 2009, the Pan-Canadian Committee of ABCP
investors announced that the third-party ABCP restructuring plan
had been implemented. Pursuant to the terms of the plan, hold-
ers of ABCP had their short-term commercial paper exchanged
for longer-term notes whose maturities match those of the
assets previously held in the underlying conduits. As at that
date, the Corporation held a portfolio of ABCP issued by several
trusts with an overall notional value of $143.5 million.

On the plan implementation date, the Corporation remeasured
its investments in ABCP at fair value prior to the exchange.
During this valuation, the Corporation reviewed its assumptions
to factor in new information available at that date, as well as the
changes in credit market conditions. Subsequent to the January
21, 2009 measurement, the provision for impairment totalled
$47.5 million, and the ABCP investment portfolio had a fair value
of $96.1 million. The ABCP held by the Corporation was
exchanged on that date for new securities. As at that date, the
new ABCP had a notional value of $141.7 million.

During fiscal 2009, the Corporation received $8.1 million in prin-
cipal repayments on ABCP supported by synthetic assets or a
combination of synthetic and traditional securitized assets
(Master Asset Vehicle 2 Eligible [“MAV2 Eligible”]) and ABCP
supported solely by traditional securitized assets (Master Asset
Vehicle 3 Traditional [“MAV3 Traditional”]). The Corporation
received its share of $6.4 million of the cash accumulated in the
conduits. In addition, the Corporation has been advised that sev-
eral events impacting the credit of ABCP primarily backed by

OTHER EXPENSES (REVENUES)

(In thousands of dollars)

Amortization
Interest on long-term debt and debenture
Other interest and financial expenses
Interest income
Change in fair value of derivative financial instruments 

used for aircraft fuel purchases

Foreign exchange loss (gain) on long-term

monetary items

Loss (gain) on investments in ABCP
Restructuring charge and write-off of goodwill
Gain on repurchase of preferred shares of a subsidiary
Share of net loss (income) of a company subject 

to significant influence

2009

$

51,155
4,866
2,679
(4,588)

2008
Restated
$

56,147
7,538
1,758
(16,172)

2007
Restated
$

50,176
6,229
1,929
(19,745)

(68,267)

106,435

(26,577)

(135)
(68)
11,967
—

2,295
45,927
—
(1,605)

(24)

427

(3,023)
11,200
3,900
—

(651)

Variance
2009
%

(8.9)
(35.4)
52.4
(71.6)

(164.1)

(105.9)
(100.1)
N/A
(100.0)

(105.6)

Variance
2008
%

11.9
21.0
(8.9)
(18.1)

(500.5)

(175.9)
310.1
(100.0)
N/A

(165.6)

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

23

U.S. subprime assets have occurred, resulting in losses in
excess of the securities pledged as collateral. These events
resulted in a $4.8 million decline in the notional value of the
investments in ABCP, as well as a corresponding decline in the
provision for impairment of investments in ABCP, since the
amounts had been fully provisioned. The notional value of the
new ABCP amounted to $128.8 million as at October 31, 2009
and is detailed as follows:

MAV2 Eligible
The Corporation holds $113.3 million in ABCP supported by
synthetic assets or a combination of synthetic and traditional
securitized assets, which have been restructured into floating
rate notes with maturities through January 2017. 

MAV2 Ineligible
The Corporation holds $7.6 million in ABCP supported mainly
by U.S. subprime assets that have been restructured on a
series-by-series basis, with each series maintaining its sepa-
rate exposure to its own assets and maturing through
December 2035.

MAV3 Traditional
The Corporation holds $7.9 million in ABCP supported solely
by traditional securitized assets that have been restructured
on a series-by-series basis, with each series or trust main-
taining its own assets and maturing through September
2015.

CHANGE IN BALANCES OF INVESTMENTS IN ABCP 

(In thousands of dollars)

Balance as at October 31, 2007
Principal repayments
Writedown of investments in ABCP
Balance as at October 31, 2008; impact on results for 2008
Adjustment related to January 21, 2009 
restructuring plan implementation
Writedown in notional value of ABCP
Writedown of investments in ABCP
Principal repayments
Share of estimated cash receivable
Share of cash accumulated in conduits
Remeasurement of options
Balance as at October 31, 2009; impact on results for 2009

VALUATION AS AT OCTOBER 31, 2009
On October 31, 2009, the Corporation remeasured its new
ABCP at fair value. During this valuation, the Corporation
reviewed its assumptions to factor in new information available,
as well as the changes in credit market conditions. The
Corporation gave due consideration, in particular, to new infor-
mation released by BlackRock Canada Ltd. [“BlackRock”], which
was appointed to administer the assets on the plan implemen-
tation date. BlackRock issues monthly valuation reports on the
value of ABCP supported primarily by subprime assets in the
U.S. [MAV2 Ineligible] and ABCP supported exclusively by tradi-
tional securitized assets [MAV3 Traditional]. The Corporation’s
management measured the fair value of its assets from these
two classes using these valuations. For the other securities,
given the lack of an active market, the Corporation’s manage-
ment estimated the fair value of these assets by discounting
future cash flows determined using a valuation model that incor-
porates management’s best estimates based as much as possi-
ble on observable market inputs, such as the credit risk attribut-
able to underlying assets, relevant market interest rates,
amounts to be received and maturity dates. Accordingly, the
Corporation took into account the information released by
Dominion Bond Rating Service [“DBRS”] on August 11, 2009.
DBRS downgraded ABCP supported by synthetic assets or a
combination of synthetic and traditional securitized assets
[MAV2 Eligible] from Class A-2 to BBB–. Prior to this downgrad-
ing, this class of ABCP had an “A” rating.

Notional value
of investments in 
ABCP
$

Provision for 
impairment of 
investments in 
ABCP
$

154,500
(11,000)
—
143,500

(1,759)
(4,844)
—
(8,062)
—
—
—
128,835

(11,200)
—
(45,705)
(56,905)

—
4,844
(5,993)
—
620
—
—
(57,434)

Investments in 
ABCP
$

143,300
(11,000)
(45,705)
86,595

(1,759)
—
(5,993)
(8,062)
620
—
—
71,401

Loss (gain) on 
investments in 
ABCP
$

—
222
45,705
45,927

1,759
—
5,993
—
(620)
(6,400)
(800)
(68)

THE BALANCE OF INVESTMENTS IN ABCP AS AT OCTOBER 31, 2009

(In thousands of dollars)

MAV2 Eligible
Class A-1
Class A-2
Class B
Class C

MAV2 Ineligible
MAV3 Traditional
Share of estimated cash receivable

24

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

Notional value of
investments in 
ABCP
$

Provision for impairment 
of investments in 
ABCP
$

Investments in 
ABCP
$

34,436
63,894
11,598
3,403
113,331
7,630
7,874
—
128,835

(8,775)
(26,416)
(10,129)
(3,343)
(48,663)
(7,552)
(1,839)
620
(57,434)

25,661
37,478
1,469
60
64,668
78
6,035
620
71,401

For the purposes of estimating future cash flows, the
Corporation estimated that the long-term financial instruments
arising from the conversion of its ABCP would generate interest
returns ranging from 0.0% to 2.7% [weighted average rate of
2.1%], depending on the type of series. These future cash flows
were discounted, according to the type of series, over 7.2 year
periods using discount rates ranging from 7.3% to 60.0%
[weighted average rate of 11.7%], which factor in liquidity. 

As a result of this new valuation, on October 31, 2009, the
Corporation recorded a $6.0 million impairment charge in
respect of its investments in ABCP. This impairment charge
excludes $0.6 million of the Corporation’s share of the estimat-
ed cash accumulated in the conduits as at October 31, 2009,
received on November 5, 2009. The ABCP investment portfolio
had a fair value of $71.4 million and the provision for impairment
totalled $57.4 million, representing 44.6% of the notional value
of $128.8 million.

The Corporation’s estimate of the fair value of its ABCP invest-
ments is subject to significant uncertainty. The substitution of
one or more inputs by one or more assumptions cannot reason-
ably be completed in these conditions. Management believes
that its valuation technique is appropriate in the circumstances;
however, changes in significant assumptions could significantly
impact the value of ABCP securities over the coming fiscal year.
The resolution of these uncertainties could result in the ultimate
value of these investments varying significantly from manage-
ment’s current best estimates and the extent of that difference
could have a material effect on our financial results.

A 1% increase (decrease), representing 100 basis points, in the
estimated discount rates would result in a decrease (increase)
of approximately $3.9 million in the estimated fair value of
ABCP held by the Corporation.

The tables on page 24 detail the change in balances of invest-
ments in ABCP in the consolidated balance sheet and the com-
position of Loss (gain) on investments in ABCP in the consolidat-
ed statement of income (loss), and the balance of investments
in ABCP as at October 31, 2009.

RESTRUCTURING CHARGE
On September 24, 2009, we announced a restructuring plan to
make structural changes to our distribution network in France.
Under these structural changes, an administrative centre and
some agencies will close, while other agencies will be sold.
Following this announcement, we recognized a $12.0 million
restructuring charge. This charge includes $2.9 million in cash

payments, consisting mainly of termination benefits, a $0.6 mil-
lion asset impairment charge and an $8.5 million write-off of
goodwill after the assets and goodwill of agencies involved in
the restructuring were tested for impairment.

GAIN ON REPURCHASE OF PREFERRED SHARES 
OF A SUBSIDIARY
During the year ended October 31, 2008, the Corporation’s sub-
sidiary Travel Superstore Inc. repurchased redeemable preferred
shares held by one of its minority shareholders for a cash con-
sideration of $0.3 million. As these redeemable preferred shares
were considered liabilities, $1.9 million was included in other lia-
bilities in the balance sheet. In light of the classification of these
redeemable preferred shares as liabilities, the $1.6 million gain
was recorded in the consolidated statement of income (loss). A
total of $0.6 million related to this transaction was also included
under non-controlling interest in subsidiaries’ results in the con-
solidated statement of income (loss).

SHARE OF NET LOSS (INCOME) OF A COMPANY 
SUBJECT TO SIGNIFICANT INFLUENCE
Our share of net loss (income) of a company subject to signifi-
cant influence represents our share of the net loss (income) of
our hotel business, Caribbean Investments B.V. [“CIBV”]. Our
share of net income of a company subject to significant influ-
ence for the year amounted to $24 thousand compared with a
share of net loss of $0.4 million for 2008. The improvement in
our share resulted mainly from the fact that one of the hotels of
our company subject to significant influence was in its start-up
phase at the beginning of fiscal 2008. However, an outbreak of
influenza A (H1N1) late in the winter season dampened prof-
itability at our hotels in Mexico. Cost reduction initiatives and
business from U.S. tourists, coupled with the fact that the out-
break occurred during low season, mitigated the decline in prof-
itability.  

INCOME TAXES
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 2009, income taxes totalled
$30.9 million, compared with $28.9 million in income tax recov-
ery for the previous fiscal year. Excluding the share in net
income of companies subject to significant influence, the effec-
tive tax rates were 32.3% for the fiscal year ended October 31,
2009 and 38.7% for the preceding year. 

The change in tax rates from fiscal 2009 to 2008 resulted prima-
rily from the following 2008 items: the use of our French subsi-
diaries’ tax loss carryforwards from prior fiscal years previously
unrecognized in future income tax assets and from the tax treat-
ment of the writedown of investments in ABCP. The effective tax

SELECTED UNAUDITED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
(In thousands of dollars,
except per share amounts)

Q1-2008
Restated
$

Q2-2008
Restated
$

Q3-2008
Restated
$

787,389
19,274
(7,851)

1,075,158
70,715
41,721

859,880
14,587
(895)

Q4-2008
Restated
$

790,424
23,192
(82,369)

Q1-2009

Q2-2009

Q3-2009

Q4-2009

$

$

$

$

877,254
(8,498)
(29,436)

1,129,077
39,130
42,186

819,354
27,187
30,991

719,656
35,576
18,106

Revenues
Margin
Net income (loss)
Basic earnings (loss) 

per share

Diluted earnings (loss) 

per share 

(0.23)

(0.23)

1.25

1.25

(0.03)

(2.54)

(0.90)

(0.03)

(2.54)

(0.90)

1.29

1.27

0.95

0.94

0.53

0.52

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

25

rates for the year also factor in unfavourable items related to
prior year assessments affecting a number of our subsidiaries.

NET INCOME (LOSS)
In light of the items discussed in Consolidated Operations, net
income for the year ended October 31, 2009 totalled $61.8 million,
or $1.86 per share, compared with a net loss of $49.4 million, 
or $1.49 per share, for the previous year. The weighted average
number of outstanding shares used to compute per share
amounts was 33,168,000 for fiscal 2009 and 33,108,000 for
fiscal 2008.

On a diluted per share basis, income per share was $1.85 for
fiscal 2009, compared with a loss per share of $1.49 in 2008.
The adjusted weighted average number of shares used to deter-
mine these amounts was 33,485,000 for the current year and
33,108,000 for fiscal 2008. See note 15 to the audited Consoli-
dated Financial Statements.

SELECTED QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION
The Corporation’s operations are seasonal in nature; conse-
quently, interim operating results do not proportionately reflect
the operating results for a full year. Overall, revenues are up
compared with the corresponding quarters of previous years,
mainly as a result of growth in volume of travellers. From a mar-
gin perspective, there have been fluctuations during each quar-
ter, mainly due to competitive pressure on prices. In light of the
foregoing, the following quarterly financial information can vary
significantly from quarter to quarter.

FOURTH-QUARTER HIGHLIGHTS
For the fourth quarter, the Corporation generated $719.7 million
in revenues, down $70.8 million or 9.0% from $790.4 million for
the corresponding period in 2008. This decrease resulted mainly
from lower average selling prices and a 3.3% decline in the vol-
ume of travellers.

The Corporation reported a margin of $35.6 million or 4.9% for
the quarter compared with $23.2 million or 2.9% for the corre-
sponding period of 2008. This improved margin resulted in part
from lower operating costs in the Americas and higher passen-
ger load factors than in the corresponding period of 2008.

In the fourth quarter, we recorded a $14.9 million gain arising
from the change in fair value of derivative financial instruments
used for aircraft fuel purchases, compared with a $120.7 million
loss in for the corresponding period of 2008. We also recorded a
$2.0 million gain on investments in ABCP, whereas we recorded
a $13.8 million loss for the same period in 2008. Quarterly
results were also affected by the recognition of a $12.0 million
restructuring charge.

The Corporation reported $18.1 million in net income for the
fourth quarter or $0.52 per share on a diluted basis, compared a
net loss of $82.4 million or $2.54 per share for the correspon-
ding period of 2008.  

CASH FLOWS

(In thousands of dollars)

Cash flows related to operating activities
Cash flows related to investing activities
Cash flows related to financing activities
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
Net change in cash

2009

$

45,234
(26,662)
18,303
(2,090)
34,785

2008
Restated
$

95,069
(142,027)
15,091
10,866
(21,001)

2007
Restated
$

156,728
(195,657)
(14,830)
5,640
(48,119)

Variance
2009
%

(52.4)
81.2
21.3
(119.2)
(265.6)

Variance
2008
%

(39.3)
27.4
201.8
92.7
(56.4)

26

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

LIQUIDITY 
AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

As at October 31, 2009, cash and cash equivalents totalled
$180.6 million, compared with $145.8 million as at October 31,
2008. Cash and cash equivalents in trust or otherwise reserved
amounted to $272.7 million as at the end of fiscal 2009, com-
pared with $256.7 million in 2008. The Corporation’s balance
sheet reflects working capital of $35.0 million and a current ratio
of 1.06 compared with a working capital deficiency of $8.5 mil-
lion and a ratio of 0.99 as at October 31, 2008. The variance in
working capital primarily resulted from $60.5 million in net pro-
ceeds from our public offering.

Total assets fell $137.7 million or 10.9% to $1,129.5 million as at
October 31, 2009 from $1,267.2 million as at October 31, 2008.
This decrease resulted mainly from a $107.0 million decrease in
derivative financial instruments, a $31.5 million decrease in prop-
erty, plant and equipment and a $15.2 million decrease in our
investments in ABCP, offset by a $34.8 million increase in cash
and cash equivalents and a $16.0 million increase in cash and
cash equivalents in trust or otherwise reserved. Shareholders’
equity rose $21.4 million to $367.4 million as at October 31,
2009 from $345.9 million as at October 31, 2008. This increase
stemmed from share capital issues during the year totalling
$62.0 million (consisting mainly of our public offering) and $61.8
million in net income, offset by a $89.5 million change in fair
value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges, coupled
with a $13.2 million foreign exchange loss on translation of the
financial statements of our self-sustaining operations; the last
two items were reflected in accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss). 

CASH FLOWS
OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Operating activities generated $45.2 million in cash flows, com-
pared with $95.1 million in 2008. This $49.8 million or 52.4%
decrease during the year resulted mainly from lower profitabili-
ty, a $25.5 million decrease reflected in the net change in non-
cash working capital balances related to operations and a $11.2
million decrease stemming from the net change in our provision
for overhaul of leased aircraft.

We expect to continue to generate positive cash flows from our
operating activities in 2010.

INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Cash flows used in investing activities totalled $26.7 million for
the year, down $115.4 million from 2008, owing primarily to the
$53.7 million decrease in cash outflows for business acquisi-
tions and a $36.0 million decline in cash outflows for additions
to property, plant and equipment compared with 2008. During
fiscal 2009, the Corporation made a $5.8 million capital contribu-
tion to CIBV for land acquisition in the Dominican Republic. In
2008, the Corporation acquired a 35% interest in CIBV and
made a $57.9 million capital contribution. Also in fiscal 2008, the
Corporation acquired, in particular, the business premises of
Look Voyages, in addition to recognizing a $12.3 million increase
in cash and cash equivalents reserved for purposes of issuing
letters of credit.

In 2010, additions to property, plant and equipment are expected
to range from $35.0 million to $45.0 million.

FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Cash flows generated by financing activities totalled $18.3 million,
up $3.2 million from $15.1 million in 2008. This rise resulted
mainly from a $60.5 million increase in proceeds from share
issuance subsequent to our public offering, the absence in 2009
of share repurchases, offset by $37.9 million in repayments of
credit facilities and other debt, whereas in 2008, credit facilities
and other debt generated net cash flows of $49.9 million. In
addition, the dividend paid to the Corporation’s shareholders
during the year was $9.0 million lower than in 2008, and $2.9
million was paid to a minority shareholder of one of the
Corporation’s subsidiaries.  

FINANCING
As at October 31, 2009, the Corporation had several types of
financing, consisting primarily of three revolving term credit
facilities, loans secured by aircraft and lines of credit.

The Corporation has a revolving credit facility, which was
increased to $157.0 million from $86.4 million on February 9,
2009 (subsequent to the implementation of the ABCP restruc-
turing plan and pursuant to the terms of the agreement) matur-
ing in 2012, or immediately payable in the event of a change in
control, and a $60.0 million revolving credit facility for issuing
letters of credit for which the Corporation must pledge cash as
collateral security against 105% of the letters of credit issued.
Under the terms and conditions of this agreement, funds may
be drawn down by way of bankers’ acceptances or bank loans,
denominated in Canadian dollars, U.S. dollars, euros or pounds
sterling. Under this agreement, interest is charged at bankers’
acceptance rates, at the financial institution’s prime rate or at
the London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR), plus a premium

PAYMENTS DUE BY PERIOD

Year ending October 31

Contractual obligations
Debenture
Long-term debt
Leases (aircraft)
Leases (other)
Agreements with suppliers 
and other obligations

2010
$

2011
$

2012
$

2013
$

2014
$

3,156
24,576
50,063
31,771

—
83,108
42,959
25,866

302,512
412,078

51,525
203,458

—
—
38,139
20,311

33,482
91,932

—
—
33,420
16,467

10,859
60,746

—
—
24,418
16,549

6,474
47,441

2015
and later
$

—
—
3,574
81,672

17,050
102,296

Total
$

3,156
107,684
192,573
192,636

421,902
917,951

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

27

based on certain financial ratios calculated on a consolidated
basis. Under the terms of the agreement, the Corporation is
required to comply with financial criteria and ratios. As at
October 31, 2009, all financial criteria and ratios were met.

Obligations that are not reported as liabilities are considered off-
balance sheet arrangements. These contractual arrangements
are entered into with consolidated entities and consist of the
following:

The Corporation has two revolving credit facilities of $9.4 million
and $88.9 million, the first maturing in 2010 and the second in
2011, or immediately payable in the event of a change in control.
Under the terms and conditions of these agreements, funds
may be drawn down by way of bankers’ acceptances or bank
loans, denominated in Canadian dollars, U.S. dollars, euros or
pounds sterling. Under these agreements, interest is charged at
bankers’ acceptance rates, at the financial institution’s prime
rate or at LIBOR, plus a premium specific to the type of financ-
ing vehicle. These credit facilities include options, which are
now effective following implementation of the ABCP restructur-
ing plan and allow the Corporation, at its option, to use the
restructured notes to repay up to $59.5 million in drawdowns as
they fall due, under certain conditions. These options were ini-
tially reported at fair value, amounting to $8.4 million, and the
corresponding initial gain was deferred and recognized in net
income under amortization over the term of the credit agree-
ments. The options are reported at fair value at each balance
sheet date under derivative financial instruments, and any
change in fair value of the options is recorded in net income
under loss (gain) on the investments in ABCP. The Corporation
measured the options as at October 31, 2009 and recorded a
$0.8 million increase in fair value to $9.2 million as at that date.
Under the terms of the agreement, the Corporation is required
to comply with financial criteria and ratios. As at October 31,
2009, all financial criteria and ratios were met.

As at October 31, 2009, $78.0 million had been drawn down
under these credit facilities.

The loans secured by aircraft of the Corporation amounted to
$28.7 million [US$26.7 million] as at October 31, 2009. The
loans bear interest at LIBOR plus 2.15% and 3.25% and are
repayable in equal semi-annual instalments through 2011.

With regard to our French operations, we also have access to
undrawn lines of credit totalling m11.3 million [$17.9 million].

OFF-BALANCE SHEET ARRANGEMENTS
In the normal course of business, Transat enters into arrange-
ments and incurs obligations that will impact the Corporation’s
future operations and liquidity, some of which are reflected as
liabilities in the audited Consolidated Financial Statements as at
October 31, 2009. As at October 31, 2009 and October 31,
2008, these obligations reflected on the balance sheet amount-
ed to $110.8 million and $153.2 million, respectively.

• Guarantees (see notes 11 and 24 to the audited Consolidated

Financial Statements)

• Operating leases (see note 23 to the audited Consolidated

Financial Statements)

• Agreements with suppliers (see note 23 to the audited

Consolidated Financial Statements)

Off-balance sheet debt that can be estimated amounted to
approximately $801.3 million as at October 31, 2009 compared
with $583.0 million as at October 31, 2008, and is detailed as
follows:

OFF-BALANCE SHEET DEBT

Guarantees

Irrevocable letters of credit
Collateral security contracts

Operating leases

Obligations under 
operating leases

Agreements with suppliers

2009

$

10,364
860

385,209
396,433
404,852
801,285

2008

$

7,074
790

289,230
297,094
285,873
582,967

In the normal course of business, guarantees are required in the
travel industry to provide indemnifications and guarantees to
counterparties in transactions such as operating leases, irrevoca-
ble letters of credit and collateral security contracts. Historically,
Transat has not made any significant payments under such guar-
antees. Operating leases are entered into to enable the Corpora-
tion to lease certain items rather than acquire them.

We believe that the Corporation will be able to meet its obliga-
tions with cash on hand, cash flows from operations and draw-
downs under existing credit facilities.

DEBT LEVELS
Debt levels as at October 31, 2009 were higher than as at
October 31, 2008.

Balance sheet debt declined $42.4 million to $110.8 million from
$153.2 million, and our off-balance sheet debt, excluding agree-
ments with suppliers and other obligations, increased $99.3 
million to $396.4 million from $297.1 million, collectively repre-
senting a $57.0 million increase in total debt compared with
October 31, 2008. The decrease in balance sheet debt resulted
from repayments during the year. The $99.3 million increase in
off-balance sheet debt, resulting mainly from the extension of
four aircraft leases expiring from December 2013 through
November 2015 and an additional lease for one aircraft expiring
in June 2015, was offset by repayments made during the year.

Net of cash and cash equivalents and our investments in ABCP,
the Corporation reported $255.3 million in net debt as at
October 31, 2009, up 17.1% from $218.0 million as at October
31, 2008. 

28

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

OTHER

AIRCRAFT FLEET RENEWAL
During the year, we adopted and began implementing a transi-
tion plan to renew Air Transat’s fleet. Consisting of 18 wide-body
jets (Airbus A330s and A310s), the fleet should solely be made
up of Airbus A330s within approximately four years. A fifth
Airbus A330 was added to the fleet in fall 2009, and the first
Airbus A310 was retired. Two additional Airbus A310 are expect-
ed to be retired in 2010. Operating a single type of aircraft will
result, in particular, in lower operating costs and will require
adjustments to our commercial approach.

APPOINTMENTS AND SENIOR MANAGEMENT CHANGES
On March 27, 2009, the Corporation announced the appoint-
ment of Patrice Caradec as President and General Manager of
Transat France. Patrice will also head Vacances Transat (France)
and Look Voyages.

On November 1, 2009, as planned, two of the Corporation’s three
co-founders, Lina De Cesare, President, Tour Operators, and
Philippe Sureau, President, Distribution, left their positions and
retired. They will both remain directors of Transat and serve as
advisors to the President and Chief Executive Officer. 

As announced on April 1, 2009, Nelson Gentiletti became Chief
Operating Officer on November 1, 2009.

On November 2, 2009, the Corporation announced the following
appointments: Denis Pétrin as Vice-President, Finance and
Administration and Chief Financial Officer; Michel Bellefeuille as
Vice-President and Chief Information Officer; Michael DiLollo as
President of Transat Tours Canada; and Yves Lalumière as Vice-
President and General Manager of Transat Distribution Canada. 

AGREEMENT WITH CANJET
On February 13, 2009, we announced a five-year partnership
agreement with CanJet. With this agreement, which includes
two one-year renewal options, the Corporation can now charter
narrow-bodied Boeing 737-800 aircraft for some 20 sun destina-
tions from over 20 Canadian cities. This agreement should pro-
vide the necessary capacity and flexibility to continue offering
superior service at affordable prices.

SHARES ISSUED AND OUTSTANDING
The Corporation has three authorized classes of shares: an
unlimited number of Class A Variable Voting Shares, an unlimited
number of Class B Voting Shares and an unlimited number of
preferred shares. The preferred shares are non-voting and issuable
in series, with each series including the number of shares, 
designation, rights, privileges, restrictions and conditions as
determined by the Board of Directors.

As at December 31, 2009, there were 530,117 Class A Variable
Voting Shares outstanding and 37,232,652 Class B Voting Shares
outstanding.

On September 30, 2009 and October 6, 2009, the Corporation
issued a total of 4,887,500 voting shares in connection with a
public offering, consisting of Class A Shares and Class B
Shares, at a price of $13.00, for gross proceeds of $63.5 million.
Net proceeds from this offering, after covering agents’ commis-
sions and issuance costs, amounted to $60.5 million.

STOCK OPTIONS
As at December 31, 2009, there were a total of 1,101,140 stock
options outstanding, 460,744 of which were exercisable.

DIVIDENDS
During the year ended October 31, 2009, the Corporation
declared and paid dividends totalling $2.9 million. On March 11,
2009, Transat’s Board of Directors suspended the quarterly divi-
dend to holders of Class B Voting Shares and Class A Variable
Voting Shares until further notice to keep cash on hand to con-
tend with business challenges arising from the current economy.

AGREEMENTS WITH CREDIT CARD PROCESSOR
Under applicable consumer protection legislation in certain
Canadian provinces, deposits received from customers in these
provinces, whether by credit card or in cash, must be placed in
trust until they leave on vacation. A portion of Transat’s cash and
cash equivalents consists of deposits that are not subject to the
above-mentioned trust restrictions, such as deposits received
from customers in provinces in which the applicable legislation
provides for no such restrictions, as well as deposits held by
Transat’s foreign subsidiaries. 

During the year, the Corporation and its primary credit card
processor in Canada entered into an amended agreement for
the processing of credit card transactions expiring in August
2012. Under the agreement, transaction proceeds will be segre-
gated in a separate account, in Transat’s name, for 30 days
before being transferred to Transat’s trust account in accordance
with applicable provincial legislation in Canada. Under the
amended agreement, the Corporation will not be required to
comply with any other financial requirements. A substantial por-
tion of Transat’s Canadian sales are processed via credit card,
with the remaining sales processed in cash transactions. The
amended agreement will have no significant impact on Transat’s
operations.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

29

ACCOUNTING

CRITICAL ACCOUNTING ESTIMATES
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP
requires management to make certain estimates. We periodical-
ly review these estimates, which are based on historical experi-
ence, changes in the business environment and other factors
that management considers reasonable under the circumstances.
The main estimates include the measurement of fair value of
the financial instruments, including derivatives and investments
in ABCP, the provision for overhaul of leased aircraft and the
amortization and impairment of property, plant and equipment
and intangible assets including goodwill as well as the accrued
benefit liability. Our estimates involve judgments we make
based on the information available to us. Actual results may dif-
fer materially from these estimates.

We discuss below the critical accounting estimates that required
us to make assumptions about matters that were uncertain at
the time the estimates were made. Our results, financial posi-
tion and liquidity could be substantially different if we had used
different estimates in the current period or were these estimates
to change in the future.

This discussion addresses only those estimates that we consid-
er important based on the degree of uncertainty and the likeli-
hood of a material impact if we had used different estimates.
There are many other areas in which we use estimates about
uncertain matters.

FAIR VALUE OF DERIVATIVE FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
The fair value of derivative financial instruments represents the
amount of the consideration that would be agreed upon in an
arm’s length transaction between knowledgeable, willing parties
who are under no compulsion to act. The Corporation deter-
mines the fair value of its derivative financial instruments using
the purchase or selling price, as appropriate, in the most advan-
tageous active market to which the Corporation has immediate
access. The Corporation also takes into account its own credit
risk and the credit risk of the counterparty in determining fair
value for its derivative financial instruments based on whether
they are financial assets or financial liabilities. When the market
for a derivative financial instrument is not active, the Corporation
determines the fair value by applying valuation techniques, such
as using available information on market transactions involving
other instruments that are substantially the same, discounted
cash flow analysis or other techniques, where appropriate. The
Corporation ensures, to the extent practicable, that its valuation
technique incorporates all factors that market participants would
consider in setting a price and that it is consistent with accept-
ed economic methods for pricing financial instruments, includ-
ing the credit risk of the party involved. The fair value of options
related to repayment of revolving credit facilities was determined
using the Black & Scholes option pricing model.

FAIR VALUE OF INVESTMENTS IN ABCP
See Consolidated Operations: Loss (gain) on investments in
ABCP.

PROVISION FOR OVERHAUL OF LEASED AIRCRAFT
Under the aircraft and engine operating leases, the Corporation
is required to maintain the aircraft and engines in serviceable
condition and to follow the maintenance plan. The Corporation
accounts for its leased aircraft and engine maintenance obliga-
tion based on utilization until the next maintenance activity. The
obligation is adjusted to reflect any change in the related main-
tenance expenses anticipated. Depending on the type of main-
tenance, utilization is determined based on the cycles, logged
flight time or time between overhauls. Generally speaking, the
main assumptions used to calculate this provision would have
to be reduced by approximately 15%, to result in additional
expenses that could have a material impact on our results,
financial position and cash flows.

AMORTIZATION AND IMPAIRMENT OF PROPERTY, PLANT
AND EQUIPMENT AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS INCLUDING
GOODWILL
We record material balance sheet amounts under Goodwill and
other intangible assets calculated using the historical cost
method. Goodwill and other intangible assets stem primarily
from business acquisitions. We are required to test goodwill and
intangible assets with indefinite lives, such as trademarks, for
impairment each year or more often if events or changes in cir-
cumstances indicate it is more likely than not that they might be
impaired. A two-step impairment test is used to identify a
potential impairment in goodwill and a trademark, provided that
said trademark is used by the reporting unit in its day-to-day
operations, and measure the amount of a goodwill and trade-
mark impairment loss to be recognized, if any. The first step
consists in comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its
carrying amount, including goodwill, in order to identify a poten-
tial impairment. When the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds
its carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit and/or trade-
mark associated with the reporting unit is considered not to be
impaired. When the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds
its fair value, the second step, where necessary, consists in
comparing the fair value of any goodwill and/or trademark asso-
ciated with the reporting unit with the carrying amount of said
goodwill and/or trademark to measure the amount of the impair-
ment loss, if any. The Corporation uses the discounted cash
flow method to assess the fair value of its reporting units. We
carry out an analysis by estimating the discounted cash flows
attributable to each asset or each reporting unit. This analysis
requires us to make a variety of judgments concerning our
future operations. The cash flow forecasts used to determine
asset values may change in the future due to market conditions,
competition and other risk factors (see Risks and uncertainties).
During fiscal 2009 and 2008, we determined that the fair value
of our reporting units exceeded their carrying amount; as a
result, we did not carry out step 2 of the test for any of our
reporting units. No impairment was recognized except for an
$8.5 million charge in connection with our distribution network
restructuring in France. Generally, we consider that our main
assumptions regarding the cash flow forecasts would have to
be reduced by 30% to 70%, depending on the reporting unit,
before triggering a loss in fair value of a reporting unit such that
its fair value would be less than its carrying amount, thereby
requiring a writedown in goodwill and/or trademark subsequent
to step 2 of the impairment test. 

Property, plant and equipment in the balance sheet represent
material amounts based on historical costs. Property, plant and
equipment are amortized, taking into account their residual
value, over their estimated useful life. Aircraft and aircraft com-
ponents account for a major class of property, plant and equip-
ment. The amortization period is determined based on the fleet
renewal schedule, currently slated for completion by 2013. The
estimate of the residual value of aircraft and aircraft compo-

30

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

nents at the time of their anticipated disposal is supported by
periodically reviewed external valuations. Our fleet renewal
schedule and the realizable value of our aircraft obtainable upon
fleet renewal depend on numerous factors such as supply and
demand for aircraft at the scheduled fleet renewal date.
Changes in estimated useful life and residual value of aircraft
could have a significant impact on amortization expense.
Generally speaking, the main assumptions would have to be
reduced by 60% to produce a loss in value and have a material
impact on our results and financial position. However, reducing
these assumptions would not result in cash outflows and would
not affect our cash flows. 

Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets with finite
lives are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes
in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset
may not be recoverable. No events or changes in circumstances
of this nature have occurred in recent fiscal years.

ACCRUED BENEFIT LIABILITY
The Corporation offers defined benefit pension arrangements to
certain senior executives. The cost of pension benefits earned
by employees is determined from actuarial calculations, per-
formed annually, using the projected benefit method prorated
on services and management’s best estimate assumptions for
the increase in eligible earnings and the retirement age of
employees. Past service costs and amendments to the arrange-
ments are amortized on a straight-line basis over the average
remaining service period of active employees generally affected
thereby. The excess of net actuarial gains and losses over 10%
of the benefit obligation is amortized over the average remaining
service period of active employees, which was 7.2 years as at
November 1, 2008. Plan obligations are discounted using cur-
rent market interest rates.

NEW ACCOUNTING POLICIES AND OTHER CHANGES
NEW ACCOUNTING CHANGES – NOVEMBER 1, 2008
GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS
In February 2008, the Canadian Institute of Chartered
Accountants [“CICA”] issued Handbook Section 3064, Goodwill
and Intangible Assets, which superseded Section 3062,
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, and Section 3450,
Research and Development Costs, effective November 1, 2008
for the Corporation. This new section sets out standards for
recognition, measurement, presentation and disclosure of good-
will and intangible assets. These new standards have been
adopted retroactively with restatement of prior fiscal years. The
adoption of these new standards translated into a $5.7 million
decrease in retained earnings on November 1, 2007 and the fol-
lowing changes as at October 31, 2008: a $6.5 million decrease
in prepaid expenses, a $0.8 million decrease in other assets, a
$2.2 million decrease in future income tax liabilities, a $5.1 mil-
lion decrease in retained earnings and a $26 thousand decrease
in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). For the year
ended October 31, 2008, the adoption of these new standards
translated into the following changes: a $0.4 million decrease in
other operating expenses, a $0.5 million decrease in amortiza-
tion and a $0.3 million decrease in future income tax recovery,
for a $0.6 million increase in net income (loss) (a $0.02 increase
in diluted earnings (loss) per share) and a $66 thousand
decrease in comprehensive income (loss). These adjustments
arise from certain marketing expenses related to upcoming sea-
sons. These expenses were previously recorded in net income
for the related seasons and aircraft commissioning costs were
previously deferred and amortized over a period not exceeding
five years.

In addition, the application of these new standards resulted in
the reclassification of software from property, plant and equip-
ment to other intangible assets. As at October 31, 2008, the
impact of the reclassification on net carrying amounts consisted
of a $16.9 million increase in other intangible assets and a $16.9
million decrease in property, plant and equipment.

CREDIT RISK AND FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL ASSETS 
AND FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
In January 2009, the Emerging Issues Committee [“EIC”]
issued EIC-173, Credit Risk and the Fair Value of Financial
Assets and Financial Liabilities, which provides further informa-
tion on determining the fair value of financial assets and finan-
cial liabilities under Section 3855, Financial Instruments –
Recognition and Measurement. This abstract states that an enti-
ty’s own credit risk and the credit risk of the counterparty
should be taken into account in determining the fair value of
financial assets and financial liabilities, including derivative
instruments. This recommendation applies retroactively without
restatement of prior period financial statements to all financial
assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value in interim
and annual financial statements for periods ending on or after
January 20, 2009, the date of issuance of the abstract. The
adoption of this new guidance as at November 1, 2008 resulted
in a $1.4 million decrease in derivative financial instruments
recorded in assets, a $3.2 million decrease in derivative financial
instruments recorded in liabilities, a $0.6 million decrease in
future income tax assets, a $2.0 million increase in retained
earnings and a $0.8 million decrease in accumulated other com-
prehensive income (loss). The adoption of this EIC resulted in
decreases in the Corporation’s net income and earnings per
share of $1.7 million and $0.05, respectively, and a $1.1 million
increase in other comprehensive income for the year ended
October 31, 2009.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS IN TRUST OR OTHERWISE
RESERVED
Cash and cash equivalents reserved pledged as collateral securi-
ty against the Corporation’s long-term obligations, mostly related
to pension agreements, have been reclassified as non-current
assets in the balance sheet. This reclassification resulted in a
$28.3 million decrease in current assets as at October 31, 2008
and had no impact on total assets in the balance sheet. In con-
nection with this change, net changes in cash and cash equiva-
lents in trust or otherwise reserved included in current assets in
the balance sheet have been reclassified from investing activities
to operating activities in the statement of cash flows, as these
temporarily restricted funds arise mainly from the sale of servic-
es to customers and will be used for the provision of services
sold by the Corporation in the normal course of business. For
the year ended October 31, 2008, this reclassification resulted
in a $76.2 million decrease in cash flows provided by operating
activities, with the corresponding changes in cash flows related
to investing activities.

TRANSLATION OF AN INVESTMENT
The carrying amount of the investment in Caribbean Investments
B.V. as at October 31, 2008 was increased by $9.1 million to
reflect the translation of this U.S. dollar investment using the
effective rate at that date. The consideration for this adjustment
was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income
(loss) and included in shareholders’ equity without any impact
on net loss for the year ended October 31, 2008.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

31

CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES – NOVEMBER 1, 2007
AIRCRAFT OVERHAUL EXPENSES
On November 1, 2007, the Corporation changed its method for
accounting for aircraft overhaul expenses. Up until October 31,
2007, the Corporation accounted for its expenses using the
accrue-in-advance method, in accordance with the accounting
methods suggested in the U.S. Audits of Airlines guide issued
by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Under
this method, the Corporation provided for aircraft overhaul
expenses based on an estimate of all future expenses until
expiry of the leases for the aircraft leased under operating leas-
es, or on their useful lives estimated by the Corporation while
held, amortized over the total number of engine cycles and the
total number of months anticipated for the airframe and other
components over the same periods.

On September 8, 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards
Board [“FASB”] issued FASB Staff Position [“FSP”] AUG AIR-1,
Accounting for Planned Major Maintenance Activities. This FSP
amended the Audits of Airlines guide to preclude the use of
accruals as an acceptable method. This FSP is applicable to all
entities for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15,
2006. As a result, effective November 1, 2007, the Corporation
discontinued the use of the accrue-in-advance method.

For the leased aircraft and engines, the Corporation accounts its
maintenance obligation based on utilization until the next main-
tenance activity. The obligation is adjusted to reflect any change
in the related maintenance expenses anticipated. Depending on
the type of maintenance, utilization is determined based on the
cycles, logged flight time or time between overhauls. 

With respect to owned aircraft, a portion of the cost, on acquisi-
tion of an aircraft, is allocated to the major maintenance activi-
ties subclass of property, plant and equipment, which is related
to airframe, engine and landing gear overhaul costs. Aircraft and
major maintenance activities, included in Aircraft, are amortized
taking into account their expected estimated residual value.
Aircraft are amortized on a straight-line basis over seven- to ten-
year periods, and major maintenance activities are amortized
according to the type of maintenance activity on a straight-line
basis or based on the use of the corresponding aircraft until the
next related major maintenance activity. Subsequent major
maintenance activity expenses are capitalized as major mainte-
nance activities and are amortized according to their type.
Expenses related to other maintenance activities, including
unexpected repairs, are recognized in net income as incurred.

This change in accounting policy has been adopted retroactively
with restatement of prior fiscal years. In addition, the adoption
of these new standards resulted in a $0.6 million increase in
retained earnings on November 1, 2007.

Although it could have chosen to account for maintenance
expenses in net income for owned aircraft as incurred, the
Corporation believes that the policies adopted provide better
information to users of financial statements.

FUTURE CHANGES IN ACCOUNTING POLICIES
In January 2009, the CICA issued three new accounting stan-
dards: Section 1582, Business Combinations, Section 1601,
Consolidated Financial Statements, and Section 1602, Non-
controlling Interests. These new standards will be effective for
financial statements related to fiscal years beginning on or after
January 1, 2011. The Corporation is currently assessing the
requirements under these new standards.

BUSINESS COMBINATIONS
Section 1582, Business Combinations, supersedes former
Section 1581, Business Combinations, and sets out recognition
standards for business combinations. The Section establishes
principles and requirements for how the acquirer recognizes and
measures in its financial statements the identifiable assets
acquired, the liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest
in the acquiree; recognizes and measures the goodwill acquired
in the business combination or a gain from a bargain purchase;
and determines what information to disclose to enable users of
the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial
effects of the business combination. The Section constitutes the
Canadian equivalent to International Financial Reporting Standard
IFRS 3, Business Combinations. The Section applies prospec-
tively to business combinations for which the acquisition date
occurs at the beginning of the first annual fiscal year beginning
on or after January 1, 2011.

CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND NON-CON-
TROLLING INTERESTS
Sections 1601 and 1602 supersede former Section 1600,
Consolidated Financial Statements. Section 1601, which sets
out standards for the preparation of consolidated financial state-
ments, is effective for interim and annual consolidated financial
statements related to fiscal years beginning on or after January
1, 2011. Section 1602 establishes standards for accounting for a
non-controlling interest in a subsidiary in consolidated financial
statements subsequent to a business combination. This Section,
constituting the equivalent of International Accounting Standard
IAS 27, Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements, is
effective for interim and annual consolidated financial statements
beginning on or after January 1, 2011.

INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL REPORTING STANDARDS (IFRS)
In February 2008, Canada’s Accounting Standards Board [AcSB]
confirmed that Canadian GAAP, as used by publicly accountable
enterprises, will be superseded by International Financial
Reporting Standards [“IFRS”] for fiscal years beginning on or
after January 1, 2011. The Corporation will be required to report
under IFRS for its interim and annual financial statements for
the fiscal year ending October 31, 2012. 

The Corporation has prepared an IFRS transition plan consisting
of three stages: design and planning; identification of differ-
ences and development of solutions; and implementation and
review. The first phase, comprising design and planning, has
been completed. Under Phase 1, an IFRS transition plan was
prepared based on the results of a preliminary high-level diag-
nostic review of the differences between IFRS and Corporation’s
accounting policies. This analysis provided an overview of key
issues raised by the changeover to IFRS and the resulting
impacts on the Corporation, including enhanced presentation
and disclosure requirements. During Phase 1, the Corporation’s
management established a formal governance structure for the
conversion project, including an IFRS Steering Committee, to
oversee the transition process with regard to the impact on
financial reporting, operating processes, internal controls and
information systems. As part of Phase 2, the Corporation is now
identifying the differences between IFRS and the Corporation’s
accounting policies, and developing solutions.

32

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until the
hedged item is settled and future changes in value of the deriva-
tive are recognized in income prospectively. The change in value
of the effective portion of a cash flow hedge remains in
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until the relat-
ed hedged item settles, at which time amounts recognized in
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassi-
fied to the same income (loss) statement account that records
the hedged item. For derivative financial instruments designated
as fair value hedges, periodic changes in fair value are recog-
nized in net income and changes in fair value of U.S. dollar loans
secured by aircraft are also recorded in the same net income
accounts. 

MANAGEMENT OF FUEL PRICE RISK
The Corporation is particularly exposed to fluctuations in fuel
prices. Due to competitive pressures in the industry, there can
be no assurance that the Corporation would be able to pass
along any increase in fuel prices to its customers by increasing
prices, or that any eventual price increase would fully offset
higher fuel costs, which could in turn adversely impact its busi-
ness, financial position or operating results. To hedge against
sharp increases in fuel prices, the Corporation has implemented
a fuel price risk management policy that authorizes foreign
exchange forward contracts, and other types of derivative finan-
cial instruments, expiring in generally less than two years.

These derivative financial instruments used for fuel purchases
are measured at fair value at the end of each period, and the
unrealized gains or losses arising from remeasurement are
recorded and reported under Change in fair value of derivative
financial instruments used for aircraft fuel purchases in the con-
solidated statement of income (loss). When realized at maturity
of these derivative financial instruments, any gains or losses are
reclassified to Aircraft fuel.

CREDIT AND COUNTERPARTY RISK
Credit risk stems primarily from the potential inability of clients,
service providers, aircraft and engine lessors and financial insti-
tutions, including the other counterparties to cash equivalents,
derivative financial instruments and investments in ABCP, to dis-
charge their obligations.

Trade accounts receivable included in accounts receivable in the
balance sheet totalled $59.4 million as at October 31, 2009.
Trade accounts receivable consist of a large number of cus-
tomers, including travel agencies and other service providers.
Trade accounts receivable generally result from the sale of vaca-
tion packages to individuals through travel agencies and the sale
of seats to tour operators, dispersed over a wide geographic
area. No customer represented more than 10% of total
accounts receivable. As at October 31, 2009, approximately 8%
of accounts receivable were over 90 days past due, whereas
approximately 73% were up to date, that is, under 30 days.
Historically, the Corporation has not incurred any significant
losses in respect of its trade accounts receivable.

The changeover from Canadian GAAP to IFRS is a major under-
taking that may result in significant changes in financial report-
ing. The Corporation is not currently able to reasonably estimate
the impact of the changeover to IFRS on its financial reporting,
since it is still in the process of identifying differences and
preparing solutions, and has not yet selected its accounting poli-
cies or the exceptions set out in IFRS 1, First Time Adoption of
International Financial Reporting Standards. The key issues iden-
tified in Phase 1 were prepared using the information currently
available; as a result, these issues may change in light of new
facts or circumstances. 

The Corporation closely monitors developments, on a regularly
basis, in the standards issued by the International Accounting
Standards Board and the AcSB, as well as regulatory changes in
the process of made by the Canadian Securities Administrators,
which could impact the amount, nature or reporting of the adop-
tion of IFRS by the Corporation.

FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
In the normal course of business, the Corporation is exposed to
credit and counterparty risk, liquidity risk, and market risk arising
from changes in certain foreign exchange rates, changes in fuel
prices and changes in interest rates. The Corporation manages
these risk exposures on an ongoing basis. In order to limit the
effects of changes in foreign exchange rates, fuel prices and
interest rates on its revenues, expenses and cash flows, the
Corporation can avail itself of various derivative financial instru-
ments. The Corporation’s management is responsible for deter-
mining the acceptable level of risk and only uses derivative
financial instruments to manage existing or anticipated risks,
commitments or obligations based on its past experience.

FOREIGN EXCHANGE RISK MANAGEMENT
The Corporation is exposed, primarily as a result of its many
arrangements with foreign-based suppliers, aircraft and engine
leases, fuel purchases, long-term debt and revenues in foreign
currencies, and fluctuations in exchange rates mainly with
respect to the U.S. dollar, the euro and the pound sterling
against the Canadian dollar and the euro. Approximately 30% of
the Corporation’s costs are incurred in a currency other than the
measurement currency of the reporting unit incurring the costs,
whereas an insignificant percentage of revenues is incurred in a
currency other than the measurement currency of the reporting
unit making the sale. In accordance with its foreign currency
risk management policy and to safeguard the value of anticipat-
ed commitments and transactions, the Corporation enters into
foreign exchange forward contracts, expiring in generally less
than two years, for the purchase and/or sale of foreign curren-
cies based on anticipated foreign exchange rate trends. 

The Corporation documents its derivative financial instruments
related to foreign currencies as hedging instruments and regu-
larly demonstrates that these instruments are sufficiently effec-
tive to continue using hedge accounting. These derivative finan-
cial instruments are designated as cash flow hedges except for
the contracts related to U.S. dollar loans payable secured by air-
craft, which are designated as fair value hedges.

All derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value in
the balance sheet. For the derivative financial instruments desig-
nated as cash flow hedges, changes in value of the effective
portion are recognized in Other comprehensive income (loss) in
the consolidated statement of comprehensive income (loss).
Any ineffectiveness within a cash flow hedge is recognized in
net income as it arises in the same consolidated income (loss)
statement account as the hedged item when realized. Should
the hedging of a cash flow hedge relationship become ineffec-
tive, previously unrealized gains and losses remain within

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

33

INTEREST RATE RISK
The Corporation is exposed to interest rate fluctuations, primari-
ly due to its variable-rate long-term debt. The Corporation man-
ages its interest rate exposure and could potentially enter into
swap agreements consisting in exchanging variable rates for
fixed rates.

Furthermore, interest rate fluctuations could have an effect on
the Corporation’s interest income derived from its cash and
cash equivalents. The Corporation has implemented an invest-
ment policy designed to safeguard its capital and instrument liq-
uidity and generate a reasonable return. The policy sets out the
types of allowed investment instruments, their concentration,
acceptable credit rating and maximum maturity. 

RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES
In the normal course of business, the Corporation enters into
transactions with related companies. These transactions are
measured at the exchange amount, which is the amount of con-
sideration determined and agreed to by the related parties.
During the year, the Corporation recorded $18.1 million in per-
son-nights purchased at hotels belonging to CIBV, a company
subject to significant influence.  

Pursuant to the agreements entered into with its service
providers consisting primarily of hotel operators, the Corporation
pays deposits to capitalize on special benefits, including pricing,
exclusive access and room allotments. As at October 31, 2009,
these deposits totalled $31.8 million and were generally offset
by purchases of person-nights at these hotels. Risk arises from
the fact that these hotels might not be able to honour their obli-
gations to provide the agreed number of person-nights. The
Corporation strives to minimize its exposure by limiting deposits
to recognized and reputable hotel operators in its active mar-
kets. These deposits are spread across a large number of hotels
and, historically, the Corporation has not been required to write
off a considerable amount for its deposits with suppliers.

Under the terms of its aircraft and engine leases, the
Corporation pays deposits when aircraft and engines are com-
missioned, particularly as collateral for remaining lease pay-
ments. These deposits totalled $10.8 million as at October 31,
2009 and will be returned on lease expiry. The Corporation is
also required to pay cash security deposits to lessors over the
lease term to guarantee the serviceable condition of aircraft.
Cash security deposits with lessors are expensed when the
funds are disbursed. However, these cash security deposits
with lessors are generally returned to the Corporation upon
receipt of documented proof that the related maintenance has
been performed by the Corporation. As at October 31, 2009,
the cash security deposits with lessors that have been claimed
totalled $14.7 million and have been included in accounts receiv-
able. Historically, the Corporation has not written off any signifi-
cant amount of deposits and claims for cash security deposits
with aircraft and engine lessors. 

For financial institutions including the various counterparties, the
maximum credit risk as at October 31, 2009 relates to cash and
cash equivalents, including cash and cash equivalents reserved,
investments in ABCP and derivative financial instruments
accounted for in assets. These assets are held or traded with a
limited number of financial institutions and other counterparties.
The Corporation is exposed to the risk that the financial institu-
tions and other counterparties with which it holds securities or
enters into agreements could be unable to honour their obliga-
tions. The Corporation minimizes risk by entering into agree-
ments with large financial institutions and other large counter-
parties with appropriate credit ratings. The Corporation’s policy is
to invest solely in products that are rated R1-Mid or better [by
DBRS], A1 [by Standard & Poor’s] or P1 [by Moody’s] and rated
by at least two rating firms. Exposure to these risks is closely
monitored and maintained within the limits set out in the
Corporation’s various policies. The Corporation revises these
policies on a regular basis. 

Except for the investments in ABCP, the Corporation does not
believe it is exposed to a significant concentration of credit risk
as at October 31, 2009.

LIQUIDITY RISK
The Corporation is exposed to the risk of being unable to hon-
our its financial commitments by the deadlines set out under
the terms of such commitments and at a reasonable price. The
Corporation has a Treasury Department in charge, among other
things, of ensuring sound management of available cash
resources, financing and compliance with deadlines within the
Corporation’s scope of consolidation. With senior management
oversight, the Treasury Department manages the Corporation’s
cash resources based on financial forecasts and anticipated
cash flows.

34

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES

RISKS AND UNCERTAINTIES

The implementation of the Canadian Securities Administrators
National Instrument 52-109 represents a continuous improve-
ment process, which has prompted the Corporation to formalize
existing processes and control measures and introduce new
ones. Transat has chosen to make this a corporate-wide project,
which will result in operational improvements and better man-
agement.

In accordance with this instrument, the Corporation has filed
certificates signed by the President and Chief Executive Officer
and the Vice-President, Finance and Administration and Chief
Financial Officer that, among other things, report on the design
and effectiveness of disclosure controls and procedures and the
design and effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting.

DISCLOSURE CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES
The President and Chief Executive Officer and the Vice-
President, Finance and Administration and Chief Financial
Officer have evaluated disclosure controls and procedures or
caused them to be evaluated under their supervision to provide
reasonable assurance that:

• Material information relating to the Corporation has been

made known to them; and

• Information required to be disclosed in the Corporation’s fil-

ings is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within
the prescribed time periods under securities legislation.

An evaluation of the effectiveness of our disclosure controls and
procedures was carried out as at October 31, 2009, under the
supervision of the President and Chief Executive Officer and the
Vice-President, Finance and Administration and Chief Financial
Officer. Based on this evaluation, these two certifying officers
concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures were
adequate and effective. Among other things, this evaluation
took into consideration the Corporate Disclosure Policy, the sub-
certification process and the operation of the Corporation’s
Disclosure Committee.

INTERNAL CONTROLS OVER FINANCIAL REPORTING
The President and Chief Executive Officer and the Vice-
President, Finance and Administration and Chief Financial
Officer have also designed internal controls over financial report-
ing, or have caused them to be designed under their supervi-
sion, to provide reasonable assurance regarding the reliability of
financial reporting and the preparation of financial statements
for financial reporting purposes in accordance with Canadian
GAAP.

An evaluation of the design and effectiveness of our internal
controls over financial reporting was carried out as at October
31, 2009, under the supervision of the President and Chief
Executive Officer and the Vice-President, Finance and
Administration and Chief Financial Officer. Based on this evalua-
tion, these two certifying officers concluded that the internal
controls over financial reporting are effective, using the criteria
set forth by the Committee of Sponsoring Organizations
[“COSO”] of the Treadway Commission on Internal Control –
Integrated Framework. 

Lastly, no changes in our internal control over financial reporting
occurred during the year ended October 31, 2009 that materially
affected, or are likely to materially affect, our internal controls
over financial reporting.

ECONOMIC AND GENERAL FACTORS
Economic factors such as a significant downturn in the econo-
my, a recession or a decline in the employment rate in North
America, Europe or key international markets could have a nega-
tive impact on our business and operating results by affecting
demand for our products and services. Our operating results
could also be adversely affected by more general factors, includ-
ing the following: extreme weather conditions; war, political
instability or terrorism, or any threat thereof; epidemics or dis-
ease outbreaks; consumer preferences and spending patterns;
consumer perceptions of airline safety; demographic trends; dis-
ruptions to air traffic control systems; and costs of safety, secu-
rity and environmental measures. Furthermore, our revenues
are sensitive to events affecting domestic and international air
travel as well as the level of car rentals and hotel and cruise
reservations.

COMPETITION
We face many competitors in the holiday travel industry. Some
of them are larger, with strong brand name recognition and an
established presence in specific geographic areas, substantial
financial resources and preferred relationships with travel suppli-
ers. We also face competition from travel suppliers selling
directly to travellers at very competitive prices. These competi-
tive pressures could adversely impact our revenues and margins
since we would likely have to match competitors’ prices.

FLUCTUATIONS IN FOREIGN EXCHANGE 
AND INTEREST RATES
Transat is exposed, due to its many arrangements with foreign-
based suppliers, to fluctuations in exchange rates mainly con-
cerning the U.S. dollar, the euro and the pound sterling against
the Canadian dollar and the euro. These fluctuations could
increase our operating costs. Changes in interest rates could
also impact our interest income from our cash and cash equiva-
lents as well as the interest expense on variable rate debt
instruments, which in turn could affect our income. We currently
purchase derivative financial instruments to hedge against
exchange rate fluctuations affecting our long-term debt in U.S.
dollars, our off-balance sheet financing obtained for aircraft and
the revenues and operating expenses that the Corporation set-
tles in foreign currencies.

FUEL COSTS AND SUPPLY
Transat is particularly exposed to fluctuations in fuel costs. Due
to competitive pressures in the industry, there can be no assur-
ance that we would be able to pass along any increase in fuel
prices to our customers by increasing fares, or that any fare
increase would offset higher fuel costs, which could in turn
adversely impact our business, financial position or operating
results. We purchase forward contracts, and other type of deriv-
atives financial instruments, to hedge against fuel cost fluctua-
tions. Furthermore, if there were a reduction in the supply of
fuel, our operations could be adversely impacted.

CHANGING INDUSTRY DYNAMICS: NEW DISTRIBUTION
METHODS
The widespread popularity of the Internet has resulted in trav-
ellers being able to access information about travel products
and services and purchase such products and services directly
from suppliers, thereby bypassing not only vacation providers
such as Transat, but also retail travel agents through whom we
generate a substantial portion of our revenues. For the time
being, direct Internet sales remain limited in the vacation travel
segment, but shifts in industry dynamics in the distribution busi-
ness occur rapidly and, in this respect, give rise to risks. In
order to address this issue, Transat is in the process of develop-

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

35

ing and implementing a multichannel distribution system to
strike a harmonious balance between a variety of distribution
strategies such as travel agencies, direct sales (including via
Internet), third-party sales and the use of electronic booking sys-
tems.

In addition, the phenomenon of the gradual erosion in commis-
sions paid by travel suppliers, particularly airlines, has weakened
the financial position of many travel agents. Because we rely to
some extent on retail travel agencies for access to travellers
and revenues, any consumer shift away from travel agencies
and toward direct purchases from travel suppliers could have an
impact on our Corporation.

RELIANCE ON CONTRACTING TRAVEL SUPPLIERS
Despite being well positioned due to our vertical integration, we
depend on third parties who supply us with certain components
of our packages. We are dependent, for example, on non-group
airlines and a large number of hotels. In general, these suppliers
can terminate or modify existing agreements with us on rela-
tively short notice. The potential inability to replace these agree-
ments, to find similar suppliers, or to renegotiate agreements at
reduced rates could have an adverse effect on our results.
Furthermore, any decline in the quality of travel products or
services provided by these suppliers, or any perception by trav-
ellers of such a decline, could adversely affect our reputation.
Any loss of contracts, changes to our pricing agreements,
access restrictions to travel suppliers’ products and services or
negative shifts in public opinion regarding certain travel suppli-
ers resulting in lower demand for their products and services
could have a significant effect on our results.

FLUCTUATIONS IN FINANCIAL RESULTS
The travel industry in general and our operations in particular are
seasonal. As a result, our quarterly operating results are subject
to fluctuations. In our view, quarter-to-quarter comparisons of
our operating results are not necessarily meaningful and should
not be relied on as indicators of future performance.
Furthermore, due to the economic and general factors
described above, our operating results in future periods could
fall short of the expectations of securities analysts and
investors, thus affecting the market price of our shares.

GOVERNMENT REGULATION AND TAXATION
Transat’s future results may vary depending on the actions of
government authorities with jurisdiction over our operations.
These actions include the granting and timing of certain govern-
ment approvals or licenses; the adoption of regulations impact-
ing customer service standards (such as new passenger securi-
ty standards); the adoption of more stringent noise restrictions
or curfews; and the adoption of provincial regulations impacting
the operations of retail and wholesale travel agencies. In addi-
tion, the adoption of new regulatory frameworks or amend-
ments to existing ones, or tax policy changes could affect our
operations, particularly as regards hotel room taxes, car rental
taxes, airline excise taxes and airport taxes and fees.

FUTURE CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS
Transat may need to raise additional funds in the future to capi-
talize on growth opportunities or in response to competitive
pressures. There can be no assurance that additional financing
will be available on terms and conditions acceptable to us. This
could adversely affect our business.

DEPENDENCE ON TECHNOLOGY
Our business depends on our ability to access information,
manage reservation systems, including handling high telephone
call volumes on a daily basis, protect such information, and dis-
tribute our products to retail travel agents and other travel inter-
mediaries. To this end, we rely on a variety of information and
telecommunications technologies. Rapid changes in these tech-
nologies could require higher-than-anticipated capital expendi-
tures to improve customer service; this could impact our operat-
ing results. In addition, any systems failures or outages could
adversely affect our business, customer relationships and oper-
ating results.

INTERRUPTION OF OPERATIONS
If our operations are interrupted for any reason, including aircraft
unavailability due to mechanical troubles, the loss of associated
revenues could have an impact on our business, financial posi-
tion and operating results.

INSURANCE COVERAGE
In the wake of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, the
airline insurance market for risks associated with war and terror-
ist acts has undergone several changes. The limit on third-party
civil liability coverage for bodily injury and property damage has
been set at US$150 million per claim.

DEPENDENCE ON CUSTOMER DEPOSITS AND ADVANCE
PAYMENTS
Transat derives significant interest income from customer
deposits and advance payments. In accordance with our invest-
ment policy, we are required to invest these deposits and
advance payments exclusively in investment-grade securities.
Any failure of these investment securities to perform at histori-
cal levels could reduce our interest income.

NEGATIVE WORKING CAPITAL
In the normal course of business, we receive customer deposits
and advance payments. In the event that the flow of advance
payments diminished and we were required to find alternative
sources of capital, there can be no assurance that such sources
would be available at terms and conditions acceptable to us.
This could have a significant impact on our business.

Until insurance companies provide coverage above this US$150
million limit to air carriers, governments have to step in and do
so. The Canadian government covers domestic air carriers
accordingly. In addition, some insurers are not licensed to trans-
act business in Canada.

The Canadian government continues to cover its air carriers,
prompted by the licensing situation and by the U.S. govern-
ment’s decision to continue covering its own carriers against
such risks. However, there can be no assurance that the
Canadian government will not withdraw its coverage, particularly
if the U.S. government were to change its position. 

36

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

OUTLOOK

With respect to sun destination routes departing from Canada,
bookings for winter 2010 are currently tracking lower than last
winter’s record volumes. Transat reduced its capacity in the first
quarter to bolster its passenger load factor. For the second quar-
ter, capacity is currently in line with the volumes recorded last
winter, given the entrenched trend of last-minute reservations,
which complicates the task of medium-term forecasting. In
France, winter reservations are tracking lower than in the previ-
ous year.

Selling prices are generally lower than last year. However, the
Corporation expects to capitalize on lower input costs, as fuel
prices, and hotel and other destination-based costs are down,
and the Corporation’s seat sales are also trending lower than
last year.

CASUALTY LOSSES
We feel that we and our suppliers have adequate liability insur-
ance to cover risks arising in the normal course of business,
including claims for serious injury or death arising from acci-
dents involving aircraft or other vehicles carrying our customers.
Although we have never faced a liability claim for which we did
not have adequate insurance coverage, there can be no assur-
ance that our coverage will be sufficient to cover larger claims
or that the insurer concerned will be solvent at the time of any
covered loss. In addition, there can be no assurance that we will
be able to obtain coverage at acceptable levels and cost in the
future. These uncertainties could adversely affect our business
and operating results.

SLOT AND GATE AVAILABILITY
Access to landing and departure runway slots, airport gates and
facilities is critical to our operations and growth strategy. Future
availability or cost of these facilities could have an adverse
effect on our operations.

AIRCRAFT LEASE OBLIGATIONS
Transat has significant non-cancellable lease obligations relating
to its aircraft fleet. If revenues from aircraft operations were to
decrease, the payments to be made under our existing lease
agreements could have a substantial impact on our operations.

AIRCRAFT AVAILABILITY AT THE END OF LEASES
If, at the expiry of existing aircraft leases, we are unable to
renew them or to obtain leases with satisfactory conditions for
the type of aircraft required, our business and operating results
may be adversely affected.

ENVIRONMENT
As an airline industry company, Transat is exposed to any future
regulations concerning greenhouse gas emissions by its aircraft.
If Transat finds it difficult to meet any new regulatory require-
ments with its existing fleet, it could be faced with additional
costs, which in turn could adversely affect its financial results.

KEY PERSONNEL
Our future success depends on our ability to attract and retain
qualified personnel. The loss of key employees could adversely
affect our business and operating results.

UNCERTAINTY REGARDING UPCOMING COLLECTIVE
AGREEMENTS
Our operations could be adversely affected in the event of an
inability to reach an agreement with a labour union representing
our employees, including pilots.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

37

t
r
o
p
e
r

s
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r
o
t
i
d
u
A
d
n
a

t
r
o
p
e
r

s
’
t
n
e
m
e
g
a
n
a
M

The consolidated financial statements are the responsibility of management and have been approved by the
Board of Directors. Management’s responsibility in this respect includes the selection of appropriate accounting
principles as well as the exercise of sound judgment in establishing reasonable and fair estimates in accordance
with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles which are adequate in the circumstances. The financial
information presented throughout this annual report is consistent with that appearing in the financial statements. 

The Corporation and its affiliated companies have set up accounting and internal control systems
designed to provide reasonable assurance that the Corporation’s assets are safeguarded against loss or unau-
thorized use and that its books of account may be relied upon for the preparation of financial statements. 

The Board of Directors is responsible for the consolidated financial statements through its Audit Committee. The
Audit Committee reviews the annual consolidated financial statements and recommends their approval to the
Board of Directors. The Audit Committee is also responsible for analyzing, on an ongoing basis, the results
of the audits by the external auditors of the accounting methods and policies used as well as of the internal
control systems set up by the Corporation. These financial statements have been audited by Ernst & Young
LLP, the external auditors. Their report on the consolidated financial statements appears opposite.

Jean-Marc Eustache
Chairman of the Board, 
President and Chief Executive Officer 

Denis Pétrin
Vice-President, Finance and Administration
and Chief Financial Officer

To the Shareholders of Transat A.T. Inc.

We have audited the consolidated balance sheets of Transat A.T. Inc. as at October 31, 2009 and 2008 and the
consolidated statements of income (loss), comprehensive income (loss), shareholders’ equity and cash flows
for the years then ended. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Corporation’s management.
Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits. 

We conducted our audits in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards
require that we plan and perform an audit to obtain reasonable assurance whether the financial statements are
free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts
and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used and
significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. 

In our opinion, these consolidated financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial posi-
tion of the Corporation as at October 31, 2009 and 2008 and the results of its operations and its cash flows for
the years then ended in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles.

Montréal, Canada
December 4, 2009

Ernst & Young LLP(1)
Chartered Accountants

(1) CA auditor permit no.13764

38

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

 
 
 
 
Consolidated balance sheets 

2009

$

180,552
244,250 
105,349
25,083
12,860
9,823
30,447
6,770
30,578
645,712
28,476
71,401
12,014
10,454
122,911
160,156
9,488
68,891
1,129,503

266,445
21,029
4,021
266
251,018
40,243
3,156
24,576 
610,754
83,108
8,550
41,743 
50
17,937
762,142

216,236
165,096
6,642
(20,613)
367,361
1,129,503

2008
[restated — note 3] 

$

145,767 
228,352 
119,852 
4,095 
11,382 
11,412 
46,747 
112,259   
32,094   
711,960   
28,345 
86,595 
18,526 
16,097 
154,379 
168,718 
11,002   
71,592   
1,267,214  

282,440 
23,231 
6,942 
14,615 
293,537 
79,831 
3,156  
16,745   
720,497   
133,340 
13,011 
34,517 
10,227   
9,692   
921,284  

154,198 
104,211 
4,619  
82,902 
345,930  
1,267,214 

As at October 31
[In thousands of dollars]

ASSETS
Current assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents in trust or otherwise reserved [notes 3 and 4]
Accounts receivable
Income taxes receivable
Future income tax assets [notes 3 and 20]
Inventories
Prepaid expenses [note 3]
Derivative financial instruments [notes 3 and 6]
Current portion of deposits
Total current assets
Cash and cash equivalents reserved [notes 3 and 4]
Investments in ABCP [note 5]
Deposits [note 7]
Future income taxes [note 20]
Property, plant and equipment [notes 3, 8, 13 and 18]
Goodwill and other intangible assets [notes 3, 9 and 18]
Derivative financial instruments [notes 3 and 6]
Investments and other assets [notes 3 and 10]

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Current liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Current portion of provision for overhaul of leased aircraft
Income taxes payable
Future income tax liabilities [notes 3 and 20]
Customer deposits and deferred income
Derivative financial instruments [notes 3 and 6]
Debenture [note 12]
Payments on current portion of long-term debt
Total current liabilities
Long-term debt [note 13]
Provision for overhaul of leased aircraft 
Other liabilities [note 14]
Derivative financial instruments [notes 3 and 6]
Future income tax liabilities [note 20]

Shareholders’ equity
Share capital [note 15]
Retained earnings [note 3]
Contributed surplus
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) [notes 3, 6 and 16]

Commitments and contingencies [note 23]
See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

On behalf of the Board:

Jean-Marc Eustache, Director                André Bisson, Director

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

39

Consolidated statements of income

Years ended October 31
[In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts]

Revenues
Operating expenses
Direct costs
Salaries and employee benefits
Aircraft fuel
Commissions
Aircraft maintenance
Airport and navigation fees
Aircraft rent
Other [note 3]

Amortization [notes 3 and 17]
Interest on long-term debt and debenture
Other interest and financial expenses
Interest income
Change in fair value of derivative financial instruments

used for aircraft fuel purchases

Foreign exchange loss (gain) on long-term monetary items
Loss (gain) on investments in ABCP [note 5]
Restructuring charge [note 18]
Gain on repurchase of preferred shares of a subsidiary [note 19]
Share of net loss (income) of a company subject to significant influence

Income (loss) before the undernoted items
Income taxes (recovery) [note 20]
Current
Future [note 3]

Income (loss) before non-controlling interest

in subsidiaries’ resultss

Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries’ results
Net income (loss) for the year

Basic earnings (loss) per share [notes 3 and 15]
Diluted earnings (loss) per share [notes 3 and 15]

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

2009

$
3,545,341 

2,062,626
364,642
319,224
177,166
89,896 
90,611
54,287
293,494
3,451,946
93,395
51,155
4,866 
2,679
(4,588)

(68,267)
(135)
(68)
11,967
—
(24)
(2,415)
95,810

(9,531)
40,447
30,916

64,894
(3,047)
61,847

1.86
1.85 

2008
[restated — note 3] 

$
3,512,851 

1,933,706 
349,746 
365,457 
174,740 
97,842 
90,624 
48,628 
324,340 
3,385,083 
127,768
56,147 
7,538 
1,758 
(16,172)

106,435 
2,295 
45,927 
— 
(1,605)
427 
202,750 
(74,982)

19,565 
(48,440)
(28,875)

(46,107)
(3,287)
(49,394)

(1.49) 
(1.49) 

40

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

Consolidated statements of comprehensive income (loss)

Years ended October 31
[In thousands of dollars]

Net income (loss) for the year
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Change in fair value of derivatives designated as cash flow hedges
Reclassification in income
Future income taxes

Losses on derivatives designated as fuel hedges before November 1, 2006 

recognized in net income for the period

Future income taxes

Foreign exchange gains (losses) on the translation of financial statements 

of self-sustaining foreign subsidiaries due to the (appreciation) depreciation 
of the Canadian dollar vs. the euro, pound sterling and U.S. dollar 
at the balance sheet date

Comprehensive income (loss) for the year

2009

$

61,847

(39,829)
(92,111)
42,418
(89,522)

—
—
— 

(13,214)
(102,736)
(40,889)

2008
[restated — note 3] 

$

(49,394)

134,592 
61,560 
(63,852)
132,300 

522 
(172)
350 

16,713 
149,363 
99,969 

Consolidated statements of shareholder’s equity

Years ended October 31
[In thousands of dollars]

Share 
capital
$

Retained 
earnings
$

Contributed 
surplus
$

Accumulated other  
comprenhensive
income (loss)
$

Shareholders’
equity
$

2009
Balance, beginning of year, as previously reported
Change in accounting policy and

other change [note 3]

As restated, beginning of year
Net income (loss) for the year
Other comprehensive income (loss)
Issued from treasury [note 15]
Options exercised [note 15]
Compensation expense for stock option plan [note 15]
Dividends
Balance, end of year

2008
Balance, beginning of year, as previously reported
Change in accounting policy [note 3]
As restated, beginning of year
Net income (loss) for the year
Other comprehensive income
Issued from treasury [note 15]
Premium paid on share repurchase [note 15]
Options exercised [note 15]
Compensation expense for stock option plan [note 15]
Dividends
Balance, end of year

154,198 

109,302 

— 
154,198 
— 
— 
61,949 
89 
— 
— 
216,236 

156,964 
—
156,964 
— 
— 
1,331 
(5,000)
903 
— 
— 
154,198 

(3,114)
106,188 
61,847 
— 
— 
— 
— 
(2,939)
165,096 

190,534 
(5,124)
185,410 
(49,394)
— 
— 
(19,864)
— 
— 
(11,941)
104,211 

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

4,619 

— 
4,619 
— 
— 
— 
— 
2,023 
— 
6,642 

1,871 
—
1,871 
— 
— 
— 
— 
(264)
3,012 
— 
4,619 

73,873 

341,992

8,250 
82,123 
— 
(102,736)
— 
— 
— 
— 
(20,613)

(66,501)
40 
(66,461)
— 
149,363 
— 
— 
— 
— 
— 
82,902 

5,136 
347,128 
61,847
(102,736)
61,949
89
2,023
(2,939)
367,361

282,868 
(5,084)
277,784
(49,394)
149,363
1,331
(24,864)
639
3,012
(11,941)
345,930

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

41

Consolidated statements of cash flows

Years ended October 31
[In thousands of dollars]

OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Net income (loss) for the year

Operating items not involving an outlay (receipt) of cash
Amortization
Change in fair value of derivative financial instruments

used for aircraft fuel purchases

Foreign exchange loss (gain) on long-term monetary items
Loss (gain) on investments in ABCP
Loss on disposal of investments in ABCP
Write-off of goodwill and assets
Gain on repurchase of preferred shares of a subsidiary
Share of net loss (income) of a company subject to significant influence
Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries’ results
Future income taxes
Pension expense
Compensation expense for stock option plan

Net change in non-cash working capital balances

related to operations

Net change in provision for overhaul of leased aircraft
Net change in other assets and liabilities related to operations
Cash flows relating to operating activities

INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Additions to property, plant and equipment and intangible assets
Consideration paid for acquired companies
Proceeds from investments in ABCP [note 5]
Increase in cash and cash equivalents reserved
Cash flows related to investing activities

FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Net change in credit facilities and other debt
Repayment of long-term debt
Proceeds from issuance of shares
Share repurchase
Dividends paid to a non-controlling shareholder
Dividends
Cash flows related to financing activities

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents
Net change in cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of year
Cash and cash equivalents, end of year

Supplementary information
Income taxes paid
Interest paid

See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements.

2009

$

61,847

51,155

(68,267)
(135)
6,332
—
9,067
—
(24)
3,047
40,447
2,888
2,023
108,380

(56,833)
(6,663)
350
45,234 

(28,900)
(5,824)
8,062
—
(26,662)

(22,951)
(14,972)
62,038 
—
(2,873)
(2,939)
18,303

(2,090)
34,785
145,767
180,552

13,518
4,492

2008
[restated — note 3] 

$

(49,394)

56,147 

106,435 
2,295 
45,705 
222 
— 
(1,605)
427 
3,287 
(48,440)
3,075 
3,012 
121,166 

(31,313)
4,541 
675 
95,069 

(64,901)
(59,559)
10,778 
(28,345)
(142,027)

60,491 
(10,565)
1,970 
(24,864)
—
(11,941)
15,091 

10,866 
(21,001)
166,768 
145,767 

11,865 
6,821 

42

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

October 31, 2009 and 2008
[Unless specified otherwise, amounts are expressed in  
thousands, of Canadian dollars, except for per share amounts]

Notes to consolidated financial statements 

1
INCORPORATION AND NATURE OF BUSINESS
Transat A.T. Inc. [the “Corporation”], incorporated under the Canada Business Corporations Act, is an integrated company specializing
in the organization, marketing and distribution of holiday travel in the tourism industry. The core of its business consists of tour oper-
ators based in Canada and Europe. The Corporation is also involved in air transportation, value-added services at travel destinations
and accommodations. Finally, the Corporation has secured a dynamic presence in distribution through travel agency networks.

2
SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The consolidated financial statements of the Corporation have been prepared by management in accordance with Canadian generally
accepted accounting principles. The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles
requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accom-
panying notes. The main estimates include the measurement of the fair value of the financial instruments, including derivatives and
investments in asset-backed commercial paper [“ABCP”], the provision for overhaul of leased aircraft, the amortization and impair-
ment of property, plant and equipment and intangible assets, including goodwill, allocations in respect of acquired interests and
future income tax balances. Actual results could differ from those estimates and differences could be significant. The consolidated
financial statements have, in management’s opinion, been properly prepared within reasonable limits of materiality and within the
framework of the accounting policies summarized below.

Basis of consolidation
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of the Corporation, its subsidiaries and its variable interest entities where
the Corporation is the primary beneficiary. 

The Corporation consolidates variable interest entities in accordance with Accounting Guideline 15, Consolidation of Variable Interest
Entities [“AcG-15”]. This Guideline presents clarification on the application of consolidation principles to certain entities that are sub-
ject to control on a basis other than ownership of voting interests. AcG-15 provides guidance for determining when an enterprise
includes the assets, liabilities and results of activities of a variable interest entity in its consolidated financial statements. Under AcG-
15, an enterprise should consolidate a variable interest entity when that enterprise has a variable interest, or combination of variable
interests, that will absorb a majority of the entity’s expected losses if they occur, receive a majority of the entity’s expected residual
returns if they occur, or both [the “primary beneficiary”].

Assets recognized as a result of consolidating certain variable interest entities do not represent additional assets that could be used
to satisfy claims against the Corporation’s general assets.  

Cash equivalents
Cash equivalents consist primarily of term deposits and bankers’ acceptances that are readily convertible into known amounts of cash
with initial maturities of less than three months.  

Inventories
Inventories are valued at the lower of cost, determined using the first-in, first-out method, and net realizable value.  

Property, plant and equipment
Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost and are amortized, taking into account their residual value, on a straight-line basis
over their estimated useful life as follows:

Improvements to aircraft under operating leases
Aircraft equipment
Computer equipment
Aircraft engines
Office furniture and equipment
Leasehold improvements
Rotable aircraft spare parts
Administrative building

Lease term
5 to 10 years
3 to 7 years
Cycles used
4 to 10 years
Lease term
Use 
10 to 45 years

When aircraft are acquired, a portion of the cost is allocated to the “major maintenance activities” subclass, which is related to air-
frame, engine and landing gear overhaul costs. Aircraft and major maintenance activities, included in Aircraft, are amortized taking
into account their expected estimated residual value. Aircraft are amortized on a straight-line basis over seven- to ten-year periods,
and major maintenance activities are amortized according to the type of maintenance activity on a straight-line basis or based on the
use of the corresponding aircraft until the next related major maintenance activity. Subsequent major maintenance activity expenses
are capitalized as major maintenance activities and are amortized according to their type. Expenses related to other maintenance
activities, including unexpected repairs, are recognized in net income as incurred.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

43

Goodwill and other intangible assets
Goodwill and trademarks with an indefinite life are recorded at cost and are not amortized. Goodwill represents the excess of the
purchase price over the fair value of identifiable net assets acquired.

Goodwill and trademarks are tested for impairment annually or more often if events or changes in circumstances indicate that it is
more likely than not that it is impaired. A two-step impairment test is used to identify a potential impairment in goodwill and a trade-
mark, provided that said trademark is used by the reporting unit in its day-to-day operations, and measure the amount of a goodwill
and trademark impairment loss to be recognized, if any. The first step consists in comparing the fair value of a reporting unit with its
carrying amount, including goodwill, in order to identify a potential impairment. When the fair value of a reporting unit exceeds its
carrying amount, goodwill of the reporting unit and/or trademark associated with the reporting unit is considered not to be impaired.
When the carrying amount of a reporting unit exceeds its fair value, the second step, where necessary, consists in comparing the
fair value of any goodwill and/or trademark associated with the reporting unit with the carrying amount of said goodwill and/or trade-
mark to measure the amount of the impairment loss, if any. When the carrying amount of any goodwill and/or trademark associated
with a reporting unit exceeds the fair value of said goodwill and/or trademark, an impairment loss is recognized in an amount equal
to the excess in income for the period in which the impairment occurred. The Corporation uses the discounted cash flow method to
assess the fair value of its reporting units.

Intangible assets with definite useful lives are recorded at cost and amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated useful
lives, as follows:

Software
Customer lists

3 to 7 years
7 to 10 years

Impairment of long-lived assets
Property, plant and equipment and intangible assets with finite lives are reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in cir-
cumstances indicate that the carrying amount of an asset may not be recoverable. Impairment is assessed by comparing the carrying
amount of an asset with its expected future net undiscounted cash flows from use together with its residual value [net recoverable
value]. If such assets are considered to be impaired, the impairment to be recognized is measured by the amount by which the carrying
amount of the assets exceeds their fair value.  

Investments and other assets
Investments in companies subject to significant influence but not control or joint control are accounted for using the equity method.
Other investments are recorded at cost. When there is an other-than-temporary impairment in an investment, its carrying amount
must be written down to reflect this loss in value. The write-down in value is taken into account in determining net income.  

Provision for overhaul of leased aircraft 
Under the aircraft and engine operating leases, the Corporation is required to maintain the aircraft and engines in serviceable condi-
tion and to follow the maintenance plan. The Corporation accounts for its leased aircraft and engine maintenance obligation based on
utilization until the next maintenance activity. The obligation is adjusted to reflect any change in the related maintenance expenses
anticipated. Depending on the type of maintenance, utilization is determined based on the cycles, logged flight time or time between
overhauls. The excess of the maintenance obligation over maintenance deposits made to lessors and unclaimed is included in liabili-
ties under Provision for overhaul of leased aircraft. 

Foreign currency translation
Self-sustaining foreign operations
The Corporation translates the accounts of its self-sustaining foreign subsidiaries, including the investment in a foreign company
subject to significant influence, into Canadian dollars using the current rate method. Assets and liabilities are translated at the
exchange rates in effect at the end of the period. Revenues and expenses are translated at average rates of exchange during the
period. Foreign exchange gains or losses resulting from the translation are recorded in a separate line item under other comprehen-
sive income (loss).

Accounts and transactions in foreign currencies
The accounts and transactions of the Corporation denominated in foreign currencies including the accounts of integrated foreign
operations are translated using the temporal method. At the transaction date, each asset, liability, revenue or expense arising from a
foreign currency transaction is translated into Canadian dollars by using the exchange rate in effect at that date. At each balance
sheet date, monetary items denominated in a foreign currency are adjusted to reflect the exchange rate in effect at the balance sheet
date. Any exchange gain or loss that arises on translation is included in the determination of net income for the period.  

Stock-based compensation and other compensation plans
A description of the stock-based compensation plans offered by the Corporation is included in note 15.

The Corporation accounts for its stock option plan for executives and employees in respect of stock options granted after October
31, 2003 using the fair value method. The fair value of stock options at the grant date is determined using an option pricing model.
The fair value of the options at the grant date is charged to net income over the period from the grant date to the date that the
award is vested. Any consideration paid by employees on exercising stock options and the corresponding portion previously credited
to contributed surplus are credited to share capital.

44

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

The Corporation’s contributions to the stock ownership incentive and capital accumulation plan and the permanent stock ownership
incentive plan are the shares acquired in the marketplace by the Corporation for the benefit of plan participants when participants
purchase shares under the stock plan. These contributions are charged to income over the period from the grant date to the date
that the award is vested to the participant. Any consideration paid by the participant to purchase shares under the stock plan is cred-
ited to share capital.

The Corporation records a deferred share unit plan expense when the units are granted based on the fair value of the shares at the
grant date. Fluctuations in the share price subsequent to the grant date are recorded in net income for the period. For the restricted
share unit plan, the fair value of the shares at the units’ grant date is charged to net income over the period from the grant date to
the date that the award is vested. Fluctuations in the share price subsequent to the grant date are recorded in net income over the
unit vesting period.

Revenue recognition  
The Corporation recognizes revenues once all the significant risks and rewards of the service have been transferred to the customer.
As a result, revenues earned from passenger transportation are recognized upon each return flight. Revenues of tour operators and
the related costs are recognized at the time of the departure of the passengers. Commission revenues of travel agencies are recog-
nized at the time of reservation. Amounts received from customers for services not yet rendered are included in current liabilities as
Customer deposits and deferred income.  

Financial instruments
Financial instruments
Financial assets and financial liabilities, including derivative financial instruments, are initially measured at fair value. Subsequent to 
initial recognition, financial assets and financial liabilities are measured based on their classification: held-for-trading, loans and receiv-
ables or other financial liabilities. Derivative financial instruments, including embedded derivative financial instruments that are not
closely related to the host contract, are classified as held-for-trading unless they are designated within an effective hedging relationship.

Held-for-trading
Financial assets, financial liabilities and derivative financial instruments classified as held-for-trading are measured at fair value at the
balance sheet date. Gains and losses realized on disposal and unrealized gains and losses from changes in fair value are reflected in
the consolidated statement of income (loss) as they occur.

Loans and receivables and other financial liabilities
Financial assets classified as loans and receivables and financial liabilities classified as other liabilities are recorded at amortized cost
using the effective interest method.  

Transaction costs
Transaction costs related to held-for-trading financial assets and financial liabilities are expensed as incurred. Transactions costs related
to financial assets classified as loans and receivables or other financial liabilities or to financial liabilities classified as other financial
liabilities are reflected in the carrying amount of the financial asset or financial liability and are then amortized over the estimated
useful life of the instrument using the effective interest method. 

Fair value hierarchy
The Company categorizes its financial assets and liabilities measured at fair value into one of three different levels depending on the
observability of the inputs used in the measurement.

Level 1: 

This level includes assets and liabilities measured at fair value based on unadjusted quoted prices for identical assets
and liabilities in active markets that are accessible at the measurement date.

Level 2: 

This level includes valuations determined using directly or indirectly observable inputs other than quoted prices included
within Level 1. Derivative instruments in this category are valued using models or other industry standard valuation tech-
niques derived from observable market inputs.

Level 3: 

This level includes valuations based on inputs which are less observable, unavailable or where the observable data does
not support a significant portion of the instruments’ fair value.

Hedge accounting and derivative financial instruments
The Corporation uses derivative financial instruments to hedge against future currency exchange rate variations related to its long-term
debt obligations, operating lease payments, receipts of revenues from certain tour operators and disbursements pertaining to certain
operating expenses in other currencies. For hedge accounting purposes, the Corporation designates its derivative financial instruments
related to foreign currencies as hedging instruments. 

The Corporation documents its derivative financial instruments related to foreign currencies as hedging instruments and regularly
demonstrates that these instruments are sufficiently effective to continue using hedge accounting. These derivative financial instru-
ments are designated as cash flow hedges except for the contracts related to U.S. dollar loans payable secured by aircraft, which are
designated as fair value hedges.

All derivative financial instruments are recorded at fair value in the balance sheet. For the derivative financial instruments designated
as cash flow hedges, changes in value of the effective portion are recognized in Other comprehensive income (loss) in the consoli-
dated statement of comprehensive income (loss). Any ineffectiveness within a cash flow hedge is recognized in net income as it

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

45

arises in the same consolidated income (loss) statement account as the hedged item when realized. Should the hedging of a cash
flow hedge relationship become ineffective, previously unrealized gains and losses remain within Accumulated other comprehensive
income (loss) until the hedged item is settled and future changes in value of the derivative are recognized in income prospectively.
The change in value of the effective portion of a cash flow hedge remains in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) until
the related hedged item settles, at which time amounts recognized in Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) are reclassi-
fied to the same account in the consolidated statement of income (loss) that records the hedged item. For derivative financial instru-
ments designated as fair value hedges, periodic changes in fair value are recognized in the same account in the consolidated state-
ment of income (loss) as the hedged item.

In the normal course of business and to manage exposure to fuel pricing instability, the Corporation also enters into derivative finan-
cial instruments used for aircraft fuel purchases that have not been designated for hedge accounting. These derivatives are measured
at fair value at the end of each period, and the unrealized gains or losses arising from remeasurement are recorded and reported under
Change in fair value of derivative financial instruments used for aircraft fuel purchases in the consolidated statement of income (loss).
When realized at maturity of these derivative financial instruments, any gains or losses are reclassified to Aircraft fuel. 

It is the Corporation’s policy not to speculate on derivative financial instruments; thus, these instruments are normally purchased for
risk management purposes and maintained until maturity.

Income taxes
The Corporation provides for income taxes using the liability method. Under this method, future income tax assets and liabilities are
calculated based on differences between the carrying value and tax basis of assets and liabilities and measured using substantively
enacted tax rates and laws expected to be in effect when the differences reverse. A valuation allowance has been recorded to the
extent that it is more likely than not that future income tax assets will not be realized.

Deferred lease inducements
Deferred lease inducements recognized through other liabilities are amortized on a straight-line basis over the term of the leases and
are recognized as a reduction of amortization. 

Employee future benefits
The Corporation offers defined benefit pension arrangements to certain senior executives. The cost of pension benefits earned by
these employees is determined from actuarial calculations using the projected benefit method prorated on services and manage-
ment’s best estimate assumptions for the increase in eligible earnings and the retirement age of employees. Past service costs and
amendments to the arrangements are amortized on a straight-line basis over the average remaining service period of active employ-
ees generally affected thereby. The excess of net actuarial gains and losses over 10% of the benefit obligation is amortized over the
average remaining service period of active employees, which was 7.2 years as at November 1, 2008. Plan obligations are discounted
using current market interest rates and are included in Other liabilities. 

Earnings per share
Earnings per share are calculated based on the weighted average number of Class A Variable Voting Shares and Class B Voting Shares
outstanding during the year. Diluted earnings per share are calculated using the treasury stock method and take into account all the
elements that have a dilutive effect.

3
CHANGES TO ACCOUNTING POLICIES  
Standards in effect on November 1, 2008
Goodwill and intangible assets
In February 2008, the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants [“CICA”] issued Handbook Section 3064, Goodwill and Intangible
Assets, which superseded Section 3062, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets, and Section 3450, Research and Development Costs,
effective November 1, 2008 for the Corporation. This new section sets out standards for recognition, measurement, presentation
and disclosure of goodwill and intangible assets. These new standards have been adopted retroactively with restatement of prior 
fiscal years. The adoption of these new standards translated into a $5,708 decrease in retained earnings on November 1, 2007 and
the following changes as at October 31, 2008: a $6,512 decrease in prepaid expenses, a $760 decrease in other assets, a $2,155
decrease in future income tax liabilities, a $5,091 decrease in retained earnings and a $26 decrease in accumulated other compre-
hensive income (loss). For the year ended October 31, 2008, the adoption of these new standards translated into the following
changes: a $441 decrease in other operating expenses, a $502 decrease in amortization and a $326 decrease in future income tax
recovery, for a $617 increase in net income (a $0.02 increase in diluted earnings per share) and a $66 decrease in comprehensive
income (loss). These adjustments arise from certain marketing expenses related to upcoming seasons. These expenses were previ-
ously recorded in net income for the related seasons and aircraft commissioning costs were previously deferred and amortized over
a period not exceeding five years.

In addition, the application of these new standards resulted in the reclassification of software from property, plant and equipment to
other intangible assets. As at October 31, 2008, the impact of the reclassification on net carrying amounts consisted of a $16,915
increase in other intangible assets and a corresponding decrease in property, plant and equipment.  

Credit risk and fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities
In January 2009, the Emerging Issues Committee [“EIC”] issued EIC-173, Credit Risk and the Fair Value of Financial Assets and
Financial Liabilities, which provides further information on determining the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities under
Section 3855, Financial Instruments – Recognition and Measurement. This Abstract states that an entity’s own credit risk and the

46

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

credit risk of the counterparty should be taken into account in determining the fair value of financial assets and financial liabilities,
including derivative instruments. This recommendation applies retroactively without restatement of prior period financial statements
to all financial assets and financial liabilities measured at fair value in interim and annual financial statements for periods ending on or
after January 20, 2009, the date of issuance of the Abstract. The adoption of this new guidance as at November 1, 2008 resulted in
a $1,379 decrease in derivative financial instruments recorded in assets, a $3,152 decrease in derivative financial instruments recorded
in liabilities, a $575 decrease in future income tax assets, a $1,977 increase in retained earnings and a $779 decrease in accumulated
other comprehensive income (loss). The adoption of this EIC resulted in decreases in the Corporation’s net income and earnings per
share of $1,715 and $0.05, respectively, and a $1,076 increase in other comprehensive income for the year ended October 31, 2009. 

Cash and cash equivalents in trust or otherwise reserved
Cash and cash equivalents reserved pledged as collateral security against the Corporation’s long-term obligations, mostly related to
pension agreements, have been reclassified as non-current assets in the balance sheet. This reclassification resulted in a $28,345
decrease in current assets as at October 31, 2008 and had no impact on total assets in the balance sheet. In connection with this
change, net changes in cash and cash equivalents in trust or otherwise reserved included in current assets in the balance sheet
have been reclassified from investing activities to operating activities in the statement of cash flows, as these temporarily restricted
funds arise mainly from the sale of services to customers and will be used for the provision of services sold by the Corporation in
the normal course of business. For the year ended October 31, 2008, this reclassification resulted in a $60,156 decrease in cash
flows provided by operating activities, with corresponding changes in cash flows related to investing activities.

Translation of an investment
The carrying amount of the investment in Caribbean Investments B.V. [“CIBV”] as at October 31, 2008 [see note 10] was increased
by $9,055 to reflect the translation of this U.S. dollar investment using the effective rate on that date. The consideration for this
adjustment was recorded in accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) and included in shareholders’ equity without any impact
on net loss for the year ended October 31, 2008.

Other standard
In June 2009, the CICA issued amendments to Section 3862, Financial Instruments – Disclosures, that are effective for the Corpora-
tion’s financial statements for the year ended October 31, 2009. The amendments are intended to enhance disclosure regarding fair
value measurement and liquidity risk exposures.  

Standards in effect on November 1, 2007
Aircraft overhaul expenses
On November 1, 2007, the Corporation changed its method for accounting for aircraft overhaul expenses. Up until October 31, 2007,
the Corporation accounted for its expenses using the accrue-in-advance method, in accordance with the accounting methods sug-
gested in the U.S. Audits of Airlines guide issued by the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. Under this method, the
Corporation provided for aircraft overhaul expenses based on an estimate of all future expenses until expiry of the leases for the air-
craft leased under operating leases, or on their useful lives estimated by the Corporation while held, amortized over the total number
of engine cycles and the total number of months anticipated for the airframe and other components over the same periods.

On September 8, 2006, the Financial Accounting Standards Board [“FASB”] issued FASB Staff Position [“FSP”] AUG AIR-1, Accoun-
ting for Planned Major Maintenance Activities. This FSP amended the Audits of Airlines guide to preclude the use of accruals as an
acceptable method. This FSP is applicable to all entities for fiscal years beginning on or after December 15, 2006. As a result, effec-
tive November 1, 2007, the Corporation discontinued the use of the accrue-in-advance method and began accounting for aircraft
overhaul expenses if the aircraft are leased under operating leases or are capitalized with property, plant and equipment [see note 2].

This change in accounting policy has been adopted retroactively with restatement of prior fiscal years. In addition, the adoption of
these new standards resulted in a $584 increase in retained earnings on November 1, 2007.

Although it could have chosen to account for maintenance expenses in net income for owned aircraft as incurred, the Corporation
believes that the policies adopted provide better information to users of financial statements.

Future changes in accounting policies
In January 2009, the ICA issued three new accounting standards: Section 1582, Business Combinations, Section 1601, Consolidated
Financial Statements, and Section 1602, Non-controlling Interests. These new standards will be effective for financial statements
related to fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2011. The Corporation is currently assessing the requirements under these new
standards.

Business combinations
Section 1582, Business Combinations, supersedes former Section 1581, Business Combinations, and sets out recognition standards
for business combinations. The section establishes principles and requirements for how the acquirer recognizes and measures in its
financial statements the identifiable assets acquired, the liabilities assumed and any non-controlling interest in the acquiree; recog-
nizes and measures the goodwill acquired in the business combination or a gain from a bargain purchase; and determines what infor-
mation to disclose to enable users of the financial statements to evaluate the nature and financial effects of the business combination.
The Section constitutes the Canadian equivalent to International Financial Reporting Standard IFRS 3, Business Combinations. The
Section applies prospectively to business combinations for which the acquisition date occurs at the beginning of the first annual 
fiscal year beginning on or after January 1, 2011.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

47

Consolidated financial statements and non-controlling interests
Sections 1601 and 1602 supersede former Section 1600, Consolidated Financial Statements. Section 1601, which sets out standards
for the preparation of consolidated financial statements, is effective for interim and annual consolidated financial statements related
to fiscal years beginning on or after January 1, 2011. Section 1602 establishes standards for accounting for a non-controlling interest
in a subsidiary in consolidated financial statements subsequent to a business combination. This Section, constituting the equivalent
of International Accounting Standard IAS 27, Consolidated and Separate Financial Statements, is effective for interim and annual 
consolidated financial statements beginning on or after January 1, 2011.

IFRS
In February 2008, Canada’s Accounting Standards Board [AcSB] confirmed that Canadian GAAP, as used by publicly accountable
enterprises, will be superseded by International Financial Reporting Standards [IFRS] for fiscal years beginning on or after January 1,
2011. The Corporation will be required to report under IFRS for its interim and annual financial statements for the fiscal year ending
October 31, 2012. 

The Corporation has prepared an IFRS transition plan consisting of three stages: design and planning; identification of differences
and development of solutions; and implementation and review. The first phase, comprising design and planning, has been complet-
ed. Under Phase 1, an IFRS transition plan was prepared based on the results of a preliminary high-level diagnostic review of the 
differences between IFRS and Corporation’s accounting policies. This analysis provided an overview of key issues raised by the
changeover to IFRS and the resulting impacts on the Corporation, including enhanced presentation and disclosure requirements.
During Phase 1, the Corporation’s management established a formal governance structure for the conversion project, including an
IFRS Steering Committee, to oversee the transition process with regard to the impact on financial reporting, operating processes,
internal controls and information systems. As part of Phase 2, the Corporation is now identifying the differences between IFRS and
the Corporation’s accounting policies, and developing solutions. 

The changeover from Canadian GAAP to IFRS is a major undertaking that may result in significant changes in financial reporting. The
Corporation is not currently able to reasonably estimate the impact of the changeover to IFRS on its financial reporting, since it is
still in the process of identifying differences and preparing solutions, and has not yet selected its accounting policies or the exceptions
set out in IFRS 1, First Time Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standards. The key issues identified in Phase 1 were pre-
pared using the information currently available; as a result, these issues may change in light of new facts or circumstances. 

The Corporation closely monitors developments, on a regularly basis, in the standards issued by the International Accounting
Standards Board and the AcSB, as well as regulatory changes made by the Canadian Securities Administrators, which could impact
the amount, nature or reporting of the adoption of IFRS by the Corporation. 

4 
CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS IN TRUST OR OTHERWISE RESERVED
As at October 31, 2009, cash and cash equivalents in trust or otherwise reserved included $200,396 [$210,481 as at October 31,
2008] in funds received from customers, consisting primarily of Canadians, for services not yet rendered and for which the availabili-
ty period had not ended, in accordance with Canadian regulatory bodies and the Corporation’s business agreement with its credit
card processor. Cash and cash equivalents in trust or otherwise reserved also include $72,330, of which $28,476 was recorded as
non-current assets [$46,216 as at October 31, 2008, of which $28,345 was recorded as non-current assets], which was pledged as
collateral security against letters of credit.  

5
INVESTMENTS IN ABCP  
Restructuring
In mid-August 2007, the Canadian third-party asset backed commercial paper [“ABCP”] market was hit by a liquidity disruption. Since
then, there have been no material transactions in an active market involving the Corporation’s ABCP.

On August 16, 2007, subsequent to the liquidity disruption, a group of financial institutions and other parties agreed, pursuant to the
Montréal Accord [the “Accord”], to a standstill period in respect of ABCP sold by 23 conduit issuers. A Pan-Canadian Investors
Committee was subsequently established to oversee the orderly restructuring of these instruments during this standstill period. 

On January 21, 2009, the Pan-Canadian Investors Committee announced that the third-party ABCP restructuring plan had been
implemented. Pursuant to the terms of the plan, holders of ABCP had their short-term commercial paper exchanged for longer-term
notes whose maturities match those of the assets previously contained in the underlying conduits. As of that date, the Corporation
held a portfolio of ABCP issued by several trusts with an overall notional value of $143,500.

On the plan implementation date, the Corporation remeasured its investments in ABCP at fair value prior to the exchange. During
this valuation, the Corporation reviewed its assumptions to factor in new information available at that date, as well as the changes in
credit market conditions. Subsequent to January 21, 2009 measurement, the provision for impairment totalled $47,450, and the
ABCP investment portfolio had a fair value of $96,050. The ABCP held by the Corporation at that date was exchanged for new securi-
ties. The new ABCP now has a notional value of $141,741.

48

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

During fiscal 2009, the Corporation received $8,062 in principal repayments on ABCP supported by synthetic assets or a combination
of synthetic and traditional securitized assets (Master Asset Vehicle 2 Eligible [“MAV2 Eligible”]) and ABCP supported solely by tradi-
tional securitized assets (Master Asset Vehicle 3 Traditional [“MAV3 Traditional”]). The Corporation received its share of $6,400 of the
cash accumulated in the conduits. In addition, the Corporation has been advised that several events impacting the credit of ABCP
primarily backed by U.S. subprime assets have occurred, resulting in losses in excess of the securities pledged as collateral. These
events resulted in a $4,844 decline in the notional value of the investments in ABCP, as well as a corresponding decline in the provi-
sion for impairment of investments in ABCP, since the amounts had been fully provisioned. The notional value of the new ABCP
amounted to $128,835 as at October 31, 2009 and is detailed as follows:

MAV2 Eligible
The Corporation holds $113,331 in ABCP supported by synthetic assets or a combination of synthetic and traditional securitized
assets, which have been restructured into floating rate notes with maturities through January 2017.  

MAV2 Ineligible
The Corporation holds $7,630 in ABCP supported mainly by U.S. sub-prime assets that were restructured on a series-by-series
basis, with each series maintaining its separate exposure to its own assets, maturing through December 2035.

MAV3 Traditional
The Corporation holds $7,874 in ABCP supported solely by traditional securitized assets that were restructured on a series-by-series
basis, with each series or trust maintaining its own assets, maturing through September 2015.

Valuation as at October 31, 2009
On October 31, 2009, the Corporation remeasured its new ABCP at fair value. During this valuation, the Corporation reviewed its
assumptions to factor in new information available, as well as the changes in credit market conditions. The Corporation gave due
consideration, in particular, to new information released by BlackRock Canada Ltd. (“BlackRock”), which was appointed to administer
the assets on the plan implementation date. BlackRock issues monthly valuation reports on the value of ABCP supported primarily
by subprime assets in the U.S. (MAV2 Ineligible) and ABCP supported exclusively by traditional securitized assets (MAV3 Traditional).
The Corporation’s management measured the fair value of its assets from these two classes using these valuations. For the other
securities, given the lack of an active market, the Corporation’s management estimated the fair value of these assets by discounting
future cash flows determined using a valuation model that incorporates management’s best estimates based as much as possible
on observable market inputs, such as the credit risk attributable to underlying assets, relevant market interest rates, amounts to be
received and maturity dates. Accordingly, the Corporation took into account the information released by Dominion Bond Rating
Service [“DBRS”] on August 11, 2009. DBRS downgraded ABCP supported by synthetic assets or a combination of synthetic and
traditional securitized assets (MAV2 Eligible) from Class A-2 to BBB–. Prior to this downgrading, this class of ABCP had an “A” rating.

For the purposes of estimating future cash flows, the Corporation estimated that the long-term financial instruments arising from the
conversion of its ABCP would generate interest returns ranging from 0.0% to 2.7% [weighted average rate of 2.1%], depending on
the type of series. These future cash flows were discounted, according to the type of series, over 7.2 year periods using discount
rates ranging from 7.3% to 60.0% [weighted average rate of 11.7%], which factor in liquidity. 

As a result of this new valuation, on October 31, 2009, the Corporation recorded a $5,993 impairment charge in respect of its invest-
ments in ABCP. This impairment charge excludes $620 of the Corporation’s share of the estimated cash accumulated in the conduits
as at October 31, 2009, received on November 5, 2009. The ABCP investment portfolio had a fair value of $71,401 and the provision
for impairment totalled $57,434, representing 44.6% of the notional value of $128,835.

The Corporation’s estimate of the fair value of its ABCP investments is subject to significant uncertainty. The substitution of one or
more inputs by one or more assumptions cannot reasonably be completed in these conditions. Management believes that its valua-
tion technique is appropriate in the circumstances; however, changes in significant assumptions could significantly impact the value
of ABCP securities over the coming fiscal year. The resolution of these uncertainties could result in the ultimate value of these
investments varying significantly from management’s current best estimates and the extent of that difference could have a material
effect on our financial results.

A 1% increase (decrease) [100 basis points], in the estimated discount rates would result in a decrease (increase) of approximately
$3,900 in the estimated fair value of ABCP held by the Corporation.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

49

The following table details the change in balances of investments in ABCP in the consolidated balance sheet and the composition of
Loss (gain) on investments in ABCP in the consolidated statement of income (loss):

Balance as at October 31, 2007
Principal repayments
Writedown of investments in ABCP
Balance as at October 31, 2008; 

impact on results for 2008

Adjustment related to January 21, 2009 restructuring 

plan implementation

Writedown in notional value of ABCP
Writedown of investments in ABCP
Principal repayments
Share of estimated cash receivable
Share of cash accumulated in conduits 
Remeasurement of options related to repayment 

of revolving credit facilities [note 13]

Balance as at October 31, 2009; 

impact on results for 2009

National value of
investments in 
ABCP
$

154,500
(11,000)
—

Provision for 
impairment of  
investments in 
ABCP
$

(11,200)
—
(45,705)

Investments in 
ABCP
$

143,300
(11,000)
(45,705)

Loss (gain) on  
investments in 
ABCP
$

—
222
45,705

143,500

(56,905)

86,595

45,927

(1,759)
(4,844)
—
(8,062)
—
—

—

—
4,844
(5,993)
—
620
—

—

(1,759)
—
(5,993)
(8,062)
620
—

—

128,835

(57,434) 

71,401

1,759
—
5,993
—
(620)
(6,400)

(800)

(68) 

The balance of investments in ABCP as at October 31, 2009 is detailed as follows:  

MAV2 Eligible
Class A-1
Class A-2
Class B
Class C

MAV2 Ineligible

MAV3 Traditional

Share of estimated cash receivable

Notional value of 
investments in 
ABCP
$

Provision for
impairment of   
investments in   

ABCP
$

Investments in 
ABCP
$

34,436
63,894
11,598
3,403
113,331
7,630

7,874

—
128,835

(8,775)
(26,416)
(10,129)
(3,343)
(48,663)
(7,552)

(1,839)

620
(57,434)

25,661
37,478
1,469
60
64,668
78

6,035

620
71,401

50

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

6
FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS 
Classification of financial instruments

As at October 31, the classification of financial instruments, other than financial derivative instruments designated as hedges, as
well as their carrying amounts, are as follows:

Held-for-trading
$

Carrying amount

Loans and  
receivables
$

Other 
financial liabilities
$

Fair value

$

Total
$

2009
Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents in trust 

or otherwise reserved

Accounts receivable
Investments in ABCP
Deposits
Derivative financial instruments

Fuel purchasing forward contracts and other 
fuel-related derivative financial instruments

Options related to repayment of revolving 

credit facilities [note 13]

Financial liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Long-term debt
Debenture
Derivative financial instruments

Fuel purchasing forward contracts and other 
fuel-related derivative financial instruments

180,552

272,726
—
71,401
—

4,141

9,200
538,020

—
—
—

12,949
12,949

—

—
105,349
—
42,592

—

—
147,941

—
—
—

—
—

—

—
—
—
—

—

—
—

266,445
107,684
3,156

—
377,285

Held-for-trading
$

Carrying amount

Loans and  
receivables
$

Other 
financial liabilities
$

2008
Financial assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents in trust 

or otherwise reserved

Accounts receivable
Investments in ABCP
Deposits
Derivative financial instruments

Fuel purchasing forward contracts and other 
fuel-related derivative financial instruments

Financial liabilities
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Long-term debt
Debenture
Derivative financial instruments

Fuel purchasing forward contracts and other 
fuel-related derivative financial instruments

145,767

256,697
—
86,595
—

8,498
497,557

—
—
—

88,215
88,215

—

—
119,852
—
50,620

—
170,472

—
—
—

—
—

—

—
—
—
—

—
—

282,440
150,085
3,156

—
435,681

180,552

180,552

272,726
105,349
71,401
42,592

272,726
105,349
71,401
42,592

4,141

4,141

9,200
685,961

266,445
107,684
3,156

12,949
390,234

Total
$

9,200
685,961

266,445
107,684
3,156

12,949
390,234

Fair value

$

145,767

145,767

256,697
119,852
86,595
50,620

8,498
668,029

282,440
150,085
3,156

256,697
119,852
86,595
50,620

8,498
668,029

282,440
150,085
3,156

88,215
523,896

88,215
523,896

Fair value of financial instruments
The following methods and assumptions were used to measure fair value: 

The fair value of cash and cash equivalents, cash and cash equivalents in trust or otherwise reserved, accounts receivable, accounts payable
and accrued liabilities and the debenture approximate their carrying amount due to the short-term maturity of these financial instruments.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

51

A detailed analysis of the methods and assumptions used in measuring the fair value of investments in ABCP is included in note 5. 

The fair value of deposits approximate their carrying amount value given that they are subject to terms and conditions similar to
those available to the Corporation for instruments with comparable terms. 

The fair value of long-term debt approximate their carrying amount value given that it is subject to terms and conditions, including
variable interest rates, similar to those available to the Corporation for instruments with comparable terms. 

Derivative financial instruments consist primarily of foreign exchange forward contracts, fuel purchasing forward contracts and other
fuel-related derivative financial instruments. The fair value of derivative financial instruments represents the amount of the considera-
tion that would be agreed upon in an arm’s length transaction between knowledgeable, willing parties who are under no compulsion
to act. The Corporation determines the fair value of its derivative financial instruments using the purchase or selling price, as appro-
priate, in the most advantageous active market to which the Corporation has immediate access. When there is no active market for
a derivative financial instrument, the Corporation determines the fair value by applying valuation techniques, using available informa-
tion on market transactions involving other instruments that are substantially the same, discounted cash flow analysis or other tech-
niques, where appropriate. The Corporation ensures, to the extent practicable, that its valuation technique incorporates all factors
that market participants would consider in setting a price and that it is consistent with accepted economic methods for pricing finan-
cial instruments. The fair value of options related to repayment of revolving credit facilities was determined using the Black &
Scholes option pricing model and the fair value of the underlying ABCP as at October 31, 2009.

The carrying amounts of derivative financial instruments as at October 31 are as follows:

2009
Derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges
Foreign exchange forward contracts

Derivative financial instruments designated as fair value hedges
Foreign exchange forward contracts

Derivative financial instruments classified as held-for-trading  
Fuel purchasing forward contracts and other fuel-related derivative financial instruments
Options related to repayment of revolving credit facilities [note 13]

2008
Derivative financial instruments designated as cash flow hedges
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Derivative financial instruments designated as fair value hedges
Foreign exchange forward contracts
Derivative financial instruments classified as held-for-trading 
Fuel purchasing forward contracts and other fuel-related derivative financial instruments

Assets
$

2,413

504

4,141
9,200
13,341
16,258

111,448

3,315

8,498
123,261

The following table details the fair value hierarchy of financial instruments by level as at October 31, 2009: 

Quoted prices 
in active markets  
(Level 1)
$

Other observable 
inputs
(Level 2)
$

Unobservable
inputs 
(Level 3)
$

Liabilities
$

27,144

200

12,949
—
12,949
40,293

1,843

—

88,215
90,058

Total
$

Financial assets
Investments in ABCP
Derivative financial instruments

-  Fuel purchasing forward contracts and other 
fuel-related derivative financial instruments

-  Foreign exchange forward contracts
-  Options related to repayment of revolving 

credit facilities [note 13]

Financial liabilities
Derivative financial instruments

-  Fuel purchasing forward contracts and other 
fuel-related derivative financial instruments

-  Foreign exchange forward contracts

—

—
—

—
—

—
—
—

—

71,401

71,401

4,141
2,917

—
7,058

12,949
27,344
40,293

—
—

9,200
80,601

—
—
—

4,141
2,917

9,200
87,659

12,949
27,344
40,293

52

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

Management of risks arising from financial instruments
In the normal course of business, the Corporation is exposed to credit and counterparty risk, liquidity risk, and market risk arising
from changes in certain foreign exchange rates, changes in fuel prices and changes in interest rates. The Corporation manages these
risk exposures on an ongoing basis. In order to limit the effects of changes in foreign exchange rates, fuel prices and interest rates
on its revenues, expenses and cash flows, the Corporation can avail itself of various derivative financial instruments. The Corporation’s
management is responsible for determining the acceptable level of risk and only uses derivative financial instruments to manage exist-
ing or anticipated risks, commitments or obligations based on its past experience.

Credit and counterparty risk
Credit risk stems primarily from the potential inability of clients, service providers, aircraft and engine lessors and financial institutions,
including the other counterparties to cash equivalents, derivative financial instruments and investments in ABCP, to discharge their
obligations.

Trade accounts receivable included in accounts receivable in the balance sheet totalled $59,380 as at October 31, 2009 [$76,482 as
at October 31, 2008]. Trade accounts receivable consist of a large number of customers, including travel agencies and other service
providers. Trade accounts receivable generally result from the sale of vacation packages to individuals through travel agencies and
the sale of seats to tour operators, dispersed over a wide geographic area. No customer represented more than 10% of total
accounts receivable. As at October 31, 2009, approximately 8% [approximately 6% as at October 31, 2008] of accounts receivable
were over 90 days past due, whereas approximately 73% [approximately 80% as at October 31, 2008] were up to date, that is,
under 30 days. Historically, the Corporation has not incurred any significant losses in respect of its trade accounts receivable.

Pursuant to the agreements entered into with its service providers, consisting primarily of hotel operators, the Corporation pays
deposits to capitalize on special benefits, including pricing, exclusive access and room allotments. As at October 31, 2009, these
deposits totalled $31,808 [$38,492 as at October 31, 2008] and were generally offset by purchases of person-nights at these hotels.
Risk arises from the fact that these hotels might not be able to honour their obligations to provide the agreed number of person-
nights. The Corporation strives to minimize its exposure by limiting deposits to recognized and reputable hotel operators in its active
markets. These deposits are spread across a large number of hotels and, historically, the Corporation has not been required to write
off a considerable amount for its deposits with suppliers.

Under the terms of its aircraft and engine leases, the Corporation pays deposits when aircraft and engines are commissioned, partic-
ularly as collateral for remaining lease payments. These deposits totalled $10,784 as at October 31, 2009 [$12,128 as at October 31,
2008] and are returned as leases expire. The Corporation is also required to pay cash security deposits to lessors over the lease term
to guarantee the serviceable condition of aircraft. Cash security deposits with lessors are expensed when the funds are disbursed.
However, these cash security deposits with lessors are generally returned to the Corporation upon receipt of documented proof that
the related maintenance has been performed by the Corporation. As at October 31, 2009, the cash security deposits with lessors that
have been claimed totalled $14,723 [$8,576 as at October 31, 2008] and are included in accounts receivable. Historically, the Corpora-
tion has not written off any significant amount of deposits and claims for cash security deposits with aircraft and engine lessors. 

For financial institutions including the various counterparties, the maximum credit risk as at October 31, 2009 relates to cash and
cash equivalents, including cash and cash equivalents in trust and otherwise reserved, investments in ABCP and derivative financial
instruments accounted for in assets. These assets are held or traded with a limited number of financial institutions and other coun-
terparties. The Corporation is exposed to the risk that the financial institutions and other counterparties with which it holds securities
or enters into agreements could be unable to honour their obligations. The Corporation minimizes risk by entering into agreements
with large financial institutions and other large counterparties with appropriate credit ratings. The Corporation’s policy is to invest
solely in products that are rated R1-Mid or better [by DBRS], A1 [by Standard & Poor’s] or P1 [by Moody’s] and rated by at least two
rating firms. Exposure to these risks is closely monitored and maintained within the limits set out in the Corporation’s various poli-
cies. The Corporation revises these policies on a regular basis. 

Except for the investments in ABCP [see note 5], the Corporation does not believe it is exposed to a significant concentration of
credit risk as at October 31, 2009.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

53

Liquidity risk
The Corporation is exposed to the risk of being unable to honour its financial commitments by the deadlines set out under the terms
of such commitments and at a reasonable price. The Corporation has a Treasury Department in charge, among other things, of ensur-
ing sound management of available cash resources, financing and compliance with deadlines within the Corporation’s scope of con-
solidation. With senior management oversight, the Treasury Department manages the Corporation’s cash resources based on finan-
cial forecasts and anticipated cash flows.

The contractual maturities and carrying amounts of the Corporation’s financial liabilities as at October 31, 2009 are summarized in
the following table:

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities
Derivative financial instruments
Long-term debt
Debenture
Total

Maturing in 
under 1 year
$

266,445
40,243
24,576
3,156
334,420

Maturing in  
1 to 2 years
$

Maturing in    
2 to 5 years
$

—
50
83,108
—
83,158

—
—
—
—
—

Total
$

266,445
40,293
107,684
3,156
417,578

Market risk
Foreign exchange risk
The Corporation is exposed, primarily as a result of its many arrangements with foreign-based suppliers, aircraft and engine leases,
fuel purchases, long-term debt and revenues in foreign currencies, and fluctuations in exchange rates mainly with respect to the U.S.
dollar, the euro and the pound sterling against the Canadian dollar and the euro, as the case may be. Approximately 30% of the
Corporation’s costs are incurred in a currency other than the measurement currency of the reporting unit incurring the costs, where-
as an insignificant percentage of revenues is incurred in a currency other than the measurement currency of the reporting unit mak-
ing the sale. In accordance with its foreign currency risk management policy and to safeguard the value of anticipated commitments
and transactions, the Corporation enters into foreign exchange forward contracts, expiring in generally less than two years, for the
purchase and/or sale of foreign currencies based on anticipated foreign exchange rate trends. 

Expressed in Canadian dollar terms, the net financial assets and net financial liabilities of the Corporation and its subsidiaries denom-
inated in currencies other than the measurement currency of the financial statements as at October 31, based on their financial
statement measurement currency, are summarized in the following table:

Net assets (liabilities)
2009

Financial statement measurement 

currency of the group’s companies

Euro
Pound sterling
Canadian dollar
Other currencies
Total

Net assets (liabilities)
2008

Financial statement measurement 

currency of the group’s companies

Euro
Pound sterling
Canadian dollar
Other currencies
Total

U.S. dollar
$

Euro
$

Pound sterling
$

Canadian dollar
$

Other currencies
$

Total
$

(4,168)
648
(63,117)
153
(66,484)

U.S. dollar
$

4,499
1,345
(45,153)
(884)
(40,193)

—
7,192
2,628
213
10,033

16
—
9,199
—
9,215

(1,837)
7,326
—
(60)
5,429

(579)
—
361
(343)
(561)

(6,568)
15,166
(50,929)
(37)
(42,368)

Euro
$

Pound sterling
$

Canadian dollar
$

Other currencies
$

Total
$

—
1,935
(1,629)
1,546
1,852

(161)
—
(288)
—
(449)

51
12,154
—
(18)
12,187

(4,169)
—
(1,471)
(167)
(5,807)

220
15,434
(48,541)
477
(32,410)

On October 31, 2009, a 5% rise or fall in the Canadian dollar against the other currencies, assuming that all other variables had
remained the same, would have resulted in a $3,950 increase or decrease [$7,400 as at October 31, 2008], respectively, in the
Corporation’s net income (loss) for the year ended October 31, 2009, whereas other comprehensive income (loss) would have
increased or decreased by $19,700 [$32,800 as at October 31, 2008], respectively.

Risk of fluctuations in fuel prices
The Corporation is particularly exposed to fluctuations in fuel prices. Due to competitive pressures in the industry, there can be no
assurance that the Corporation would be able to pass along any increase in fuel prices to its customers by increasing prices, or that
any eventual price increase would fully offset higher fuel costs, which could in turn adversely impact its business, financial position
or operating results. To hedge against sharp increases in fuel prices, the Corporation has implemented a fuel price risk management
policy that authorizes foreign exchange forward contracts, and other types of derivative financial instruments, expiring in generally
less than two years.

54

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

On October 31, 2009, a 10% increase or decrease in fuel prices, assuming that all other variables had remained the same, would
have resulted in a $7,500 increase or decrease [$18,600 as at October 31, 2008], respectively, in the Corporation’s net income for
the year ended October 31, 2009.

As at October 31, 2009, 21% of estimated fuel requirements for fiscal 2010 and 2% of estimated requirements for fiscal 2011 were
covered by fuel-related derivative financial instruments [46% of estimated requirements for fiscal 2009 and 10% of estimated
requirements for fiscal 2010 were covered as at October 31, 2008].

Interest rate risk
The Corporation is exposed to interest rate fluctuations, primarily due to its variable-rate long-term debt. The Corporation manages
its interest rate exposure and could potentially enter into swap agreements consisting in exchanging variable rates for fixed rates.

Furthermore, interest rate fluctuations could have an effect on the Corporation’s interest income derived from its cash and cash
equivalents. The Corporation has implemented an investment policy designed to safeguard its capital and instrument liquidity and
generate a reasonable return. The policy sets out the types of allowed investment instruments, their concentration, acceptable credit
rating and maximum maturity. 

On October 31, 2009, a 25 basis point increase or decrease in interest rates, assuming that all other variables had remained the
same, would have resulted in a $800 increase or decrease [$600 as at October 31, 2008], respectively, in the Corporation’s net
income for the year ended October 31, 2009. 

Capital risk management
The Corporation’s capital management objectives are first to ensure the longevity of its capital so as to support continued opera-
tions, provide its shareholders with a return, generate benefits for its other stakeholders and maintain the most optimal capitalization
possible with a view to keeping capital costs to a minimum.

The Corporation manages its capitalization in accordance with changes in economic conditions. In order to maintain or adjust its cap-
italization, the Corporation may elect to declare dividends to shareholders, return capital to its shareholders and repurchase its
shares in the marketplace or issue new shares.

The Corporation monitors its capitalization using the adjusted debt/equity ratio. This ratio is calculated as follows: net debt/sharehold-
ers’ equity. Net debt is equal to the aggregate of long-term debt, the debenture and obligations under operating leases, excluding
supplier agreements, less cash and cash equivalents [not held in trust or otherwise reserved] and investments in ABCP. 

The Corporation’s strategy is to maintain its debt/equity ratio below 1. The calculation of the debt/equity ratio as at October 31, is
summarized as follows:

Net debt
Long-term debt
Debenture
Obligations under operating leases [note 23]
Cash and cash equivalents
Investments in ABCP

Shareholders’ equity
Debt/equity ratio

2009

$

107,784
3,156
385,209
(180,552)
(71,401)
244,196
367,361
66.5%

2008
[restated– note 3]
$

150,085
3,156
297,094
(145,767)
(86,595)
217,973
345,930
63.0%

The Corporation’s credit facilities are subject to certain covenants including a debt/equity ratio and a fixed-charge coverage ratio. These
ratios are monitored by management and submitted to the Corporation’s Board of Directors on a quarterly basis. As at October 31,
2009, the Corporation was in compliance with these ratios. Except for the credit facility covenants, the Corporation is not subject to
any third-party capital requirements.  

7
DEPOSITS

Deposits on leased aircraft and engines
Deposits with suppliers

Less current portion

2009
$

1 0,784
31,808
42,592
30,578
12,014

2008
$

12,128
38,492
50,620
32,094
18,526

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

55

8
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT

Aircraft
Improvements to aircraft under operating leases
Aircraft equipment
Computer equipment 
Aircraft engines
Office furniture and equipment
Leasehold improvements
Rotable aircraft spare parts
Administrative buildings

Less: accumulated amortization
Net book value

9
GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLE ASSETS

2009

2008
[restated – note 3]

Accumulated
amortization
$

102,055
34,803
36,833
47,868
11,891
22,937
21,586
17,896
1,110
296,979

Accumulated
amortization
$

95,490
28,261
34,891
42,771
10,419
22,356
18,231
14,561
736
267,716

Cost
$

150,304
42,209
42,522
64,823
20,172
30,901
34,540
27,039
9,585
422,095
267,716
154,379

Cost
$

143,936
45,456
44,081
62,507
20,172
30,765
35,178
28,095
9,700
419,890
296,979
122,911

Goodwill
Trademarks not subject to amortization
Software, net of $37,111 in accumulated amortization [$50,784 in 2008]
Customer lists, net of $1,876 in accumulated amortization [$1,496 in 2008]

The change in goodwill is as follows:

Balance, beginning of year
Acquisitions [note 19]
Write-off of goodwill [note 18]
Translation adjustment

2009

$

113,993
15,738
22,432
7,993
160,156

2009
$

124,444
—
(8,468)
(1,983)
113,993

2008
[restated – note 3]
$

124,444
17,144
16,915
10,215
168,718

2008
$

119,614
1,756
—
3,074
124,444

During the quarter ended October 31, 2009, the Corporation performed its annual test for impairment of goodwill and trademarks by
discounting future cash flows based on the most recent financial forecasts of its reporting units, and no impairment was identified
[no impairment in 2008], except for the $8,468 write-off in connection with the restructuring of its distribution network in France
[see note 18].

10
INVESTMENTS AND OTHER ASSETS

Investment in Caribbean Investments B.V.
Deferred costs, unamortized balance [note 3]
Other investments
Sundry

The change in the investment in CIBV is detailed as follows:

Balance, beginning of year
Acquisition and capital contribution 
Share of net loss 
Translation adjustment

56

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

2009

$
66,347
2,234
118
192
68,891

2009

$

68,114
5,824
24
(7,615)
66,347

2008
[restated – note 3]
$
68,114
2,028
603
847
71,592

2008
[restated – note 3]
$

—
57,854
(427)
10,687
68,114

On December 10, 2007, the Corporation acquired a 35% interest in CIBV, a company operating five hotels in Mexico and the Dominican
Republic, for $51,605 [US$51,100] in cash and additional payments potentially totalling US$4,000 contingent on meeting certain spe-
cific terms and conditions by the end of calendar 2009. In addition, on April 9, 2008, the Corporation made a $4,150 capital contribu-
tion [US$4,113] to CIBV. The acquisition costs for this transaction amounted to $2,099. This acquisition was recorded using the equity
method, and the share of net income of the acquired company has been accounted for as of December 10, 2007. The difference
between the Corporation’s ownership interest in CIBV and its share of the net assets at the acquisition date amounted to $16,000
and was allocated to imputed goodwill. 

CIBV’s majority shareholder may demand that the Corporation provide the necessary funds to repay one of CIBV’s long-term debts
should CIBV be unable to cover the scheduled repayments. However, the maximum amount that the Corporation could be required
to provide may not exceed its 35% share of said long-term debt. As at October 31, 2009, the Corporation’s share of long-term debt
amounted to $11,473 [m7,218]. 

11
BANK LOANS
Operating lines of credit totalling m11,287 [$17,942] [m11,287 [$17,411] in 2008] have been authorized for certain French subsidiaries.
These operating lines of credit are renewable annually and were undrawn as at October 31, 2009 and 2008.

For its European operations, the Corporation has guarantee facilities renewable annually amounting to m13,050 [$20,744] [m14,118
[$21,778] in 2008]. As at October 31, 2009, letters of guarantee had been issued totalling m6,220 [$9,888] [m4,586 [$7,074] in 2008].

12
DEBENTURE
On April 6, 2004, a subsidiary of the Corporation issued a $3,156 debenture bearing interest at a rate of 6%. The debenture was
repaid in cash on November 6, 2009 subsequent to the amendment of the initial agreement providing for repayment on that date.  

13
LONG-TERM DEBT 

Loans secured by aircraft amounting to US$26,667 [US$40,000 as at October 31, 2008], bearing
interest at the London Interbank Offered Rate [LIBOR] plus 2.15% and 3.25% and payable in 
four equal semi-annual payments through August 2011
Drawdowns under the revolving term credit facilities maturing from 2010 to 2012
Other

Less: current portion

Payments on long-term debt due in the next two years are as follows:

2010
2011

2009
$

28,730
77,963
991
107,684
24,576
83,108

2008
$

48,180
100,000
1,905
150,085
16,745
133,340

$

24,576
83,108
107,684

As at October 31, 2009, the Corporation has a revolving term credit facility, which was increased to $157,000 from $86,350 on
February 9, 2009 [subsequent to the implementation of the ABCP restructuring plan and pursuant to the terms of the agreement]
maturing in 2012, or payable immediately on change in control, and a $60,000 revolving credit facility for issuing letters of credit for
which the Corporation must pledge cash as collateral security against 105% of the letters of credit issued. Under the terms and con-
ditions of this agreement, funds may be drawn down by way of bankers’ acceptances or bank loans, denominated in Canadian dollars,
U.S. dollars, euros or pounds sterling. Under this agreement, interest is charged at bankers’ acceptance rates, at the financial institu-
tion’s prime rate or at the LIBOR, plus a premium based on certain financial ratios calculated on a consolidated basis. The revolving
term credit facilities bore interest at an average rate of 3.2% for the year ended October 31, 2009.  

As at October 31, 2009, the Corporation had two revolving credit facilities of $9,355 and $88,888, for a total of $98,243, the first
maturing in 2010 and the second in 2011 or payable immediately on change in control. Under the terms and conditions of these agree-
ments, funds may be drawn down by way of bankers’ acceptances or bank loans, denominated in Canadian dollars, U.S. dollars, euros
or pounds sterling. Under these agreements, interest is charged at bankers’ acceptance rates, at the financial institution’s prime rate
or at LIBOR, plus a premium specific to the type of financing vehicle. The two revolving term credit facilities bore interest at an aver-
age rate of 1.3% for the year ended October 31, 2009. The credit facilities also include options, now in effect following implementa-
tion of the ABCP restructuring plan [see note 5], allowing the Corporation, at its option, to repay amounts drawn down as they fall
due under certain conditions up to a maximum of $59,463 using the restructured notes. The options were initially reported at a fair
value, amounting to $8,400, with the corresponding initial gain deferred and recognized in net income under amortization over the
term of the credit agreements [see notes 14 and 17]. The options are reported at fair value at each balance sheet date under deriva-

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

57

tive financial instruments in assets with any change in fair value of the options recorded in net income under Loss (gain) in fair value
of the investments in ABCP [see note 5]. The Corporation measured the options as at October 31, 2009 and recorded an $800
increase in fair value to $9,200 as at that date.

14
OTHER LIABILITIES

Accrued benefit liability [note 22]
Deferred lease inducements
Non-controlling interest
Deferred gains on options related to repayment of revolving credit facilities

2009
$

17,050
12,739
7,754
4,200
41,743

2008
$

14,262
11,813
8,442
—
34,517

15
SHAREHOLDERS’ EQUITY
Authorized share capital
Class A Variable Voting Shares
An unlimited number of participating Class A Variable Voting Shares [“Class A Shares”] which may be owned or controlled only by non-
Canadians as defined by the Canada Transportation Act [“CTA”], carrying one vote per Class A Share unless [i] the number of issued
and outstanding Class A Shares exceeds 25% of the total number of all issued and outstanding voting shares [or any higher percent-
age that the Governor in Council may specify pursuant to the CTA]; or [ii] the total number of votes cast by or on behalf of holders of
Class A Shares at any meeting exceeds 25% [or any higher percentage that the Governor in Council may specify pursuant to the
CTA] of the total number of votes that may be cast at such meeting. 

If either of the above-noted thresholds is surpassed, the vote attached to each Class A Share will decrease automatically, without
further action. Under the circumstance described in subparagraph [i] above, the Class A Shares as a class cannot carry more than
25% [or any higher percentage that the Governor in Council may specify pursuant to the CTA] of the aggregate votes attached to all
issued and outstanding voting shares of the Corporation. Under the circumstance described in subparagraph [ii] above, the Class A
Shares as a class cannot, for a given shareholders’ meeting, carry more than 25% [or any higher percentage that the Governor in
Council may specify pursuant to the CTA] of the total number of votes that may be cast at said meeting.

Each issued and outstanding Class A Share shall be automatically converted into one Class B Voting Share without further action on
the part of the Corporation or of the holder if [i] the Class A Share is or becomes owned and controlled by a Canadian as defined by
the CTA; or [ii] the provisions contained in the CTA relating to foreign ownership restrictions are repealed and not replaced with other
similar provisions.

Class B Voting Shares
An unlimited number of Class B Voting Shares [“Class B Shares”], participating, which may be owned and controlled by Canadians as
defined by the CTA only and shall confer the right to one vote per Class B Share at all meetings of shareholders of the Corporation.
Each issued and outstanding Class B Share shall be converted into one Class A Share automatically without further action on the part
of the Corporation or the holder if the Class B Share is or becomes owned or controlled by a non-Canadian as defined by the CTA.  

Preferred shares
An unlimited number of preferred shares, non-voting, issuable in series, each series bearing the number of shares, designation,
rights, privileges, restrictions and conditions as determined by the Board of Directors.

Issued and outstanding share capital
The changes affecting the Class A Shares and the Class B Shares were as follows:

Balance as at October 31, 2007
Issued from treasury
Exercise of options
Repurchase and cancellation of shares
Balance as at October 31, 2008
Issued from treasury
Exercise of options
Balance as at October 31, 2009

Number of shares

33,628,386
65,635
48,420
(1,064,200)
32,678,241
5,037,547
13,011
37,728,799

$

156,964 
1,331
903
(5,000)
154,198
61,949
89
216,236

As at October 31, 2009, the number of Class A Shares and Class B Shares stood at 869,249 and 36,859,550 respectively [1,383,159
and 31,295,085 as at October 31, 2008].

58

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

Public offering  
On September 30, 2009 and October 6, 2009, the Corporation issued a total of 4,887,500 voting shares in connection with a public
offering, consisting of Class A Shares and Class B Shares, at a price of $13.00, for gross proceeds of $63,538. Net proceeds from
this offering, after covering agents’ commissions and issuance costs, amounted to $60,530.

Normal course issuer bid 
On June 15, 2008, the Corporation renewed its normal course issuer bid, which began on June 15, 2007, for a 12-month period. With
this renewal, the Corporation intended to purchase for cancellation up to a maximum of 3,175,506 Class A Shares and Class B Shares,
representing less than 10% of the publicly held Class A Shares and Class B Shares at the offer renewal date [3,288,003 Class A
Shares and Class B Shares, representing less than 10% of the issued and outstanding Class A Shares and Class B Shares as at June 15,
2007]. The shares were redeemable at market prices plus brokerage fees.

In accordance with its normal course issuer bids, the Corporation repurchased, during the year ended October 31, 2008, a total of
1,064,200 voting shares, consisting of Class A Shares and Class B Shares, for $24,864 in cash.

The excess of the shares’ repurchase value over their carrying amount was charged to retained earnings as share repurchase premiums.

Subscription rights plan
At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on March 12, 2008, the shareholders ratified the shareholders’ subscription rights plan
amended and updated on January 16, 2008 [the “rights plan”]. The rights plan entitles holders of Class A Shares and Class B Shares
to acquire, under certain conditions, additional shares at a price equal to 50% of their market value at the time the rights are exercised.
The rights plan is designed to give the Board of Directors time to consider offers, thus allowing shareholders to receive full and fair
value for their shares. The rights plan will terminate at the 2011 shareholders’ AGM, unless terminated prior to said AGM.

Stock option plan 
At the AGM held on March 11, 2009, the shareholders ratified the new stock option plan for executives and employees adopted by
the Board of Directors on January 14, 2009. Under the plan, the Corporation may grant 1,945,000 additional Class A Shares or Class
B Shares to eligible persons at a share price equal to the weighted average price of the shares during the five trading days prior to
the option grant date. Options granted are exercisable over a ten-year period, provided the terms and conditions to be determined at
their granting are met. Options granted under the former plan but not yet exercised will remain governed by the former plan. No
options were granted under the plan during the year. 

The balance of options that may be granted under the former plant involves 212,633 additional Class A Shares or Class B Shares at a
share price equal to the weighted average price of the shares during the five trading days prior to the option grant date. Options
granted are exercisable over a ten-year period; a maximum of one-third of options is exercisable in the first two years after the grant
date for grants subsequent to November 1, 2006, and a maximum of one-third of options in the second year subsequent to the grant,
for grants subsequent to November 1, 2006, a maximum of two-thirds of options in the third year with all options exercisable at the
outset of the fourth year. 

The following tables summarize all outstanding options:

Beginning of year
Granted
Exercised
Cancelled
End of year

Options exercisable, end of year

Number of 
options

716,173
441,084
(13,011)
(43,106)
1,101,140

460,744

2009

Weighted
average price
$

22.85
11.18
6.84
24.32
18.31

22.35

Number of 
options

506,083
259,181
(48,420)
(671)
716,173

322,884

2008

Weighted
average price
$

22.70
21.35
13.21
22.34
22.85

19.90

2009

Range of 
exercise  
prices 
$

3.00 — 4.50
6.01 — 7.50
7.51 — 9.00
9.01 — 11.50
15.01 — 17.00
21.00 — 23.00
24.50 — 28.50
37.00 — 37.50

Number of options 
outstanding as at 
October 31, 2009

Outstanding options
Weighted  
average
remaining life 

25,526
17,813
8,160
454,585
32,957
427,597
6,137
128,365
1,101,140

3.5
2.4
0.4
9.3
4.6
7. 4
6.7
7. 6

Weighted 
average
price
$

3.80
6.99
7.86
11.14
15.68
21.87
25.96
37.24
18.31

Options exercisable

Number of options 
exercisable as at 
October 31, 2009

25,526
17,813
8,160
13,501
32,957
271,116
5,470
86,201
460,744

Weighted  
average 
price 
$

3.80
6.99
7.86
9.90
15.68
22.17
25.66
37.24
22.35

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

59

Compensation expense for stock option plan
During the year ended October 31, 2009, the Corporation granted 441,084 stock options [259,181 in 2008] to certain key executives and
employees. The average fair value of each option granted was estimated on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes option pricing
model. The assumptions used and the weighted average fair value of the options on the date of grant are as follows:

Risk-free interest rate
Expected life
Expected volatility
Dividend yield
Weighted average fair value at date of grant

2009

3.07%
6 years
45.4%
—
$6.10

2008

3.66%
6 years
37.6%
1.70%
$7.42

During the year ended October 31, 2009, the Corporation recorded a compensation expense of $2,023 [$3,012 in 2008] for its stock
option plan. No expense was recognized in share capital for the exercise of options during the year [$264 in 2008].

Share purchase plan
A share purchase plan is available to eligible employees of the Corporation and its subsidiaries. Under the plan, as at October 31, 2009,
the Corporation was authorized to issue up to 360,494 Class B Shares. The plan allows each eligible employee to purchase shares
up to an overall limit of 10% of his or her annual salary in effect at the time of plan enrolment. The purchase price of the shares under
the plan is equal to the weighted average price of the Class B Shares during the five trading days prior to the issue of the shares,
less 10%.

During the year, the Corporation issued 150,047 Class B Shares [65,635 Class B Shares in 2008] for a total of $1,419 [$1,331 in 2008]
under the share purchase plan.

Stock ownership incentive and capital accumulation plan
Subject to participation in the share purchase plan offered to all eligible employees of the Corporation, the Corporation awards annually
to each eligible officer a number of Class B Shares, the aggregate purchase price of which is equal to an amount ranging from 20% to
60% of the maximum percentage of salary contributed, which may not exceed 5%. Shares so awarded by the Corporation will vest
gradually to the eligible officer, subject to the eligible officer’s retaining, during the first six months of the vesting period, all the shares
purchased under the Corporation’s share purchase plan. 

The shares awarded under this plan are bought in the market by the Corporation and deposited in the participants’ accounts as and
when they purchase shares under the share purchase plan. 

During the year ended October 31, 2009, the Corporation recorded a compensation expense of $186 [$182 in 2008] for its stock own-
ership incentive and capital accumulation plan. 

Permanent stock ownership incentive plan
Subject to participation in the share purchase plan offered to all eligible employees of the Corporation, the Corporation awards annually
to each eligible senior executive a number of Class B Shares, the aggregate purchase price of which is equal to the maximum per-
centage of salary contributed, which may not exceed 10%. Shares so awarded by the Corporation will vest gradually to the eligible
senior executive, subject to the senior executive’s retaining, during the vesting period, all the shares purchased under the Corporation’s
share purchase plan. The shares awarded under this plan are bought in the market by the Corporation and deposited in the participants’
account as and when they purchase shares under the share purchase plan. 

During the year ended October 31, 2009, the Corporation recorded a compensation expense of $247 [$232 in 2008] for its permanent
stock ownership incentive plan. 

Deferred share unit plan
Deferred share units [“DSUs”] are awarded in connection with the senior executive deferred share unit plan and the independent
director deferred share unit plan. Under these plans, each eligible senior executive or independent director receives a portion of his
or her compensation in the form of DSUs. The value of a DSU is determined based on the average closing price of the Class B Shares
for the five trading days prior to the award of the DSUs. The DSUs are repurchased by the Corporation when a senior executive or a
director ceases to be a plan participant. For the purpose of repurchasing DSUs, the value of a DSU is determined based on the aver-
age closing price of the Class B Shares for the five trading days prior to the repurchase of the DSUs.

As at October 31, 2009, the number of DSUs awarded amounted to 55,455 [42,003 as at October 31, 2008]. During the year ended
October 31, 2009, the Corporation recorded a compensation expense of $307 [reversal of a $952 charge in 2008] under its deferred
share unit plan.

60

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

Restricted share unit plan
Restricted share units [“RSUs”] are awarded annually to eligible employees under the new restricted share unit plan. Under this plan,
each eligible employee receives a portion of his or her compensation in the form of RSUs. The value of an RSU is determined based
on the weighted average closing price of the Class B Shares for the five trading days prior to the award of the RSUs. The rights relat-
ed to RSUs are acquired over a period of three years. When acquired, the RSUs are immediately repurchased by the Corporation,
subject to certain conditions and certain provisions relating to the Corporation’s financial performance. For the purpose of repurchas-
ing RSUs, the value of an RSU is determined based on the weighted average closing price of the Class B Shares for the five trading
days prior to the repurchase of the RSUs.

As at October 31, 2009, the number of RSUs awarded amounted to 373,678 [126,892 as at October 31, 2008]. During the year ended
October 31, 2009, the Corporation recorded a compensation expense of $90 [reversal of a $615 charge in 2008] for its restricted
share unit plan.

Earnings per share
Basic earnings per share and diluted earnings per share were computed as follows:

NUMERATOR
Income (loss) attributable to voting shareholders
Interest on the debenture that may be settled in voting shares
Income (loss) used to calculate diluted earnings (loss) per share

DENOMINATOR
Weighted average number of outstanding shares
Effect of dilutive securities
Debenture that may be settled in voting shares
Stock options
Adjusted weighted average number of outstanding shares

used in computing diluted earnings (loss) per share

Basic earnings (loss) per share
Diluted earnings (loss) per share

2009

$

61,847
131
61,978

33,168

288
29

33,485
1.86
1.85

2008
[restated –note 3]
$

(49,394)
—
(49,394)

33,108

—
—

33,108
(1.49)
(1.49)

In calculating diluted earnings per share for the year ended October 31, 2009, 1,008,140 stock options were not included since the
exercise price of these options was higher than the average price of the Corporation’s shares.

Debentures that may be settled in voting shares were not taken into account in calculating the loss per share for the year ended
October 31, 2008 because of their anti-dilutive effect. The potential impact of these securities on the denominator is 130,000 shares.
In light of the loss recognized for fiscal 2008, the 716,173 outstanding stock options were not included in the calculation because of
their anti-dilutive effect.

16
ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (LOSS)

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Balance as at October 31, 2007, as previously reported
Change in accounting policy [note 3]
As restated as at October 31, 2007
Change during the year
Balance as at October 31, 2008

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Balance as at October 31, 2008, as previously reported
Change in accounting policy and other change [note 3]
As restated as at November 1, 2008
Change during the year
Balance as at October 31, 2009

Cash flow 
hedges
$

(59,392)
—
(59,392)
132,650
73,258

73,258
(779)
72,479
(89,522)
(17,043)

Deferred 
translation   
adjustments  

$

Accumulated other 
comprehensive
income (loss)
$

(7,109)
40
(7,069)
16,713
9,644

615
9,029
9,644
(13,214)
(3,570)

(66,501)
40
(66,461)
149,363
82,902

73,873
8,250
82,123
(102,736)
(20,613)

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

61

17
AMORTIZATION

Property, plant and equipment
Intangible assets subject to amortization
Other assets
Deferred lease inducements
Options related to repayment of revolving credit facilities [note 13]

2009
$

45,008
10,822
974
(1,449)
(4,200)
51,155

2008
$

45,847
10,991
969
(1,660)
—
56,147

18
RESTRUCTURING CHARGE
On September 24, 2009, the Corporation announced a restructuring plan to make structural changes to its distribution network in
France. Under these structural changes, an administrative centre and some agencies will close, while other agencies will be sold.
The $11,967 restructuring charge taken includes $2,900 in cash payments, consisting mainly of termination benefits, a $599 asset
impairment charge and an $8,468 write-off of goodwill after the assets and goodwill of agencies involved in the restructuring were
tested for impairment.

Property, plant and equipment [see note 8] reflect held-for-sale assets included the restructuring plan with a net carrying amount of
$1,050.

19
BUSINESS ACQUISITIONS
During the year ended October 31, 2008, a $1,605 gain was recognized subsequent to the repurchase of shares classified as other liabili-
ties by the Corporation’s subsidiary Travel Superstore for a consideration of $330, whereas these shares had a carrying amount of $1,935.
Subsequent to this transaction, the percentage of the Corporation’s interest in this subsidiary increased to 64.6% from 50.1%.

During the year ended October 31, 2008, the Corporation paid m2,502 [$3,994] in additional consideration in connection with the 2007
acquisition of L’Européenne de Tourisme (Amplitude Internationale), and $1,756 in additional goodwill was recognized.

20
INCOME TAXES
Income taxes as reported differ from the amount calculated by applying the statutory income tax rates to income before income
taxes and non-controlling interest in subsidiaries’ results.

The factors explaining this difference and the effect on income taxes are detailed as follows:

Income taxes at the statutory rate
Change in income taxes arising from the undernoted items:
Effect of differences in Canadian and foreign tax rates
Non-deductible (non-taxable) items
Recognition of previously unrecorded tax benefits
Adjustment for prior years
Effect of tax rate changes
Effect of differences in tax rates on temporary items
Valuation allowance
Other

2009

%

30.9

(3.2)
4.7
(2.5)
1.2
—
(1.4)
1.8
0.8
32.3

$

29,605

(3,101)
4,499
(2,366)
1,201
—
(1,368)
1,690
756
30,916

2008
[restated – note 3]
%

$

(23,319)

(2,984)
(555)
(7,827)
(317)
1,572
2,073
1,767
715
(28,875)

31.1

4.0
0.7
10.4
0.4
(2.1)
(2.8)
(2.3)
(0.9)
38.5

62

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

Significant components of the Corporation’s future income tax assets and liabilities are as follows:

Future income taxes
Loss carryforwards and other tax deductions
Carrying value of capital assets in excess of tax basis 
Non-deductible reserves and provisions
Taxes related to accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) 

and derivative financial instruments

Other
Total future income taxes
Valuation allowance
Net future income tax assets
Current future income tax assets
Long-term future income tax assets
Current future income tax liabilities
Long-term future income tax liabilities
Net future income tax assets

2009

$

8,139
(19,799)
21,391

8,580
(860)
17,451
(12,340)
5,111
12,860
10,454
(266)
(17,937)
5,111

2008
[restated  –note 3]
$

12,263
(25,338)
39,021

(10,437)
932
16,441
(13,269)
3,172
11,382
16,097
(14,615)
(9,692)
3,172

Non-capital losses carried forward and other temporary differences for which a writedown was recorded, available to reduce future
taxable income of certain subsidiaries in Canada and Europe, respectively, totalled $2,401 and m17,102 [$27,186] as at October 31, 2009
[$2,388 and m17,102 [$26,382] as at October 31, 2008]. Of these loss carryforwards and deductions, m17,102 [$27,186] will expire in
one year, and the remainder will expire in 2015 and thereafter.

Retained earnings of the Corporation’s foreign subsidiaries are considered to be indefinitely reinvested. Accordingly, no provision for
income taxes has been provided thereon. Upon distribution of this income in the form of dividends or otherwise, the Corporation
may be subject to withholding taxes.

21
RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS AND BALANCES
The Corporation enters into transactions in the normal course of business with related companies. These transactions are measured at
the exchange amount, which is the amount of consideration determined and agreed to by the related parties. Significant transactions
between related parties are as follows: 

Operating expenses incurred with company subject to significant influence

2009
$

18,055

2008
$

13,530

22
EMPLOYEE FUTURE BENEFITS
The Corporation offers defined benefit pension arrangements to certain senior executives. These arrangements provide for payment
of benefits based on the number of years of eligible service provided and the average eligible earnings for the five years in which
the participant’s eligible earnings were the highest. These arrangements are not funded; however, to secure its obligations, the
Corporation has issued a $24,370 letter of credit to the trustee [see note 13]. The Corporation uses an actuarial estimate to measure
the accrued benefit obligation as at October 31 each year.

The following table provides a reconciliation of changes in the accrued benefit obligation:

Accrued benefit obligation, beginning of year
Current service cost
Cost of changes
Interest cost
Benefits paid
Actuarial loss (gain) on obligation
Accrued benefit obligation, end of year

2009
$

15,414
768
320
1,219
(100)
3,053
20,674

2008
$

16,695
867
—
971
(22)
(3,097)
15,414

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

63

The funded status of the pension plan and the amounts recorded in the balance sheet under other liabilities were as follows:

Plan assets at fair value
Accrued benefit obligation
Plan deficit
Unamortized past service costs
Unamortized net actuarial loss (gain)
Accrued benefit liability

Pension plan expense is allocated as follows:

Current service cost
Interest cost
Amortization of past service costs
Amortization of net actuarial loss
Pension expense

2009
$

—
20,674
20,674
980
2,644
17,050

2009
$

768
1,219
901
—
2,888

2008
$

—
15,414
15,414
1,561
(409)
14,262

2008
$

867
971
1,060
177
3,075

The significant actuarial assumptions adopted to determine the Corporation’s accrued benefit obligation and pension expense were
as follows:

Accrued benefit obligation
Discount rate
Rate of increase in eligible earnings
Pension expense
Discount rate
Rate of increase in eligible earnings

2009
$

5.75
3.00

7.25
3.00

2008
$

7.25
3.00

5.50
3.00

23
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES
[a]

The Corporation’s commitments under agreements with suppliers amounted to $404,852, whereas its obligations under oper-
ating leases for aircraft, buildings, automotive equipment, telephone systems, maintenance contracts and office premises
amounted to $385,209. These commitments totalling $790,061 are allocated as follows: $209,769, US$197,573, m126,068 and
£94,084.  

The annual payments to be made under these commitments during the next five years are as follows:  

2010
2011
2012
2013
2014

$

384,346 
120,350 
91,932 
60,746 
47,441

[b] 

[c] 

[d] 

[e] 

In 2012, the minority shareholder in the subsidiary Jonview Canada Inc., which is also a shareholder of the Corporation, may
require the Corporation to buy his Jonview Canada Inc. shares at a price equal to the fair market value. The price paid may be
settled, at the Corporation’s option, in cash or by a share issue.

Between 2011 and 2015, the minority shareholders of the subsidiary Travel Superstore Inc. could require that the Corporation
purchase their Travel Superstore Inc. shares at a price equal to their fair market value, payable in cash.

In the normal course of business, the Corporation is exposed to various claims and legal proceedings. These disputes often
involve numerous uncertainties and the outcome of the individual cases is unpredictable. According to management, these
claims and proceedings are adequately provided for or covered by insurance policies and their settlement should not have a
significant negative impact on the Corporation’s financial position.

The minority shareholder of the subsidiary Trafictours Canada Inc. could require, in certain circumstances, that the Corporation
purchase his Trafictours Canada Inc. shares at a price equal to a pre-determined formula, subject to adjustment according to
the circumstances, payable in cash.

64

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

24
GUARANTEES
The Corporation has entered into agreements in the normal course of business containing clauses meeting the definition of a guar-
antee. These agreements provide compensation and guarantees to counterparties in transactions such as operating leases, irrevoca-
ble letters of credit and collateral security contracts.

These agreements may require the Corporation to compensate the counterparties for costs and losses incurred as a result of various
events, including breaches of representations and warranties, loss of or damages to property, claims that may arise while providing
services and environmental liabilities. 

Notes 4, 11, 12, 13 and 21 to the financial statements provide information about some of these agreements. The following constitutes
additional disclosure.  

Operating leases
The Corporation’s subsidiaries have general indemnity clauses in many of their airport and other real estate leases whereby they, as
lessee, indemnify the lessor against liabilities related to the use of the leased property. These leases mature at various dates through
2034. The nature of the agreements varies based on the contracts and therefore prevents the Corporation from estimating the total
potential amount its subsidiaries would have to pay to lessors. Historically, the Corporation’s subsidiaries have not made any signifi-
cant payments under such agreements and have liability insurance coverage in such circumstances.

Irrevocable letters of credit
The Corporation has entered into irrevocable letters of credit with some of its suppliers. Under these letters of credit, the Corporation
guarantees the payment of certain services rendered that it undertook to pay. These letters of credit are generally issued for one
year and are renewable. 

The Corporation has also issued letters of credit to regulatory bodies guaranteeing, among other things, certain amounts to its cus-
tomers for the performance of its obligations. As at October 31, 2009, the total guarantees provided by the Corporation under the
letters of credit amounted to $477. Historically, the Corporation has not made any significant payments under such letters of credit.

Collateral security contracts
The Corporation has entered into collateral security contracts whereby it has guaranteed a prescribed amount to its customers at
the request of regulatory agencies for the performance of the obligations included in mandates by its customers during the term of
the licenses granted to the Corporation for its travel agent and wholesaler activities in the province of Québec. These agreements
typically cover a one-year period and are renewable annually. As at October 31, 2009, these guarantees totalled $860. Historically,
the Corporation has not made any significant payments under such agreements. 

As at October 31, 2009, no amounts have been accrued with respect to the above-mentioned agreements.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

65

25
SEGMENT DISCLOSURE
The Corporation has determined that it conducts its activities in a single industry segment, namely holiday travel. Therefore, the state-
ments of income (loss) include all the required information. With respect to geographic areas, the Corporation operates mainly in the
Americas and in Europe. Geographic intersegment sales are accounted for at prices that take into account market conditions and other
considerations.

2009
Revenues from third parties
Operating expenses

2008 [restated – note 3]
Revenues from third parties
Operating expenses

Canada
France
United Kingdom
Other

Americas
$

2,552,348
2,497,525
54,823

2,536,831
2,460,701
76,130

2009

$

2,513,216
776,742
199,159
56,224
3,545,341

Revenues (1)

2008

$

2,503,227
779,701
176,739
53,184
3,512,851

Europe  

$

992,993
954,421
38,572

976,020
924,382
51,638

Total
$

3,545,341
3,451,946
93,395

3,512,851
3,385,083
127,768

Property, plant and  
equipment, goodwill and  
other intangible assets

2009

$

2008
[restated – note 3]
$

173,167
59,129
38,079
12,692
283,067

199,635
67,507
43,133
12,822
323,097

(1) Revenues are allocated based on the subsidiary’s country of domicile.  

66

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

(In thousands of dollars, except per share amounts)

Supplementary financial data

Consolidated Statements of Income

Revenues
Operating expenses

Expenses and other revenues

Amortization
Interest on long-term debt and debentures
Other interest and financial expenses
Interest income
Change in fair value of derivative financial instruments 

used for aircraft fuel purchases

Foreign exchange (gain) loss on long-term 

monetary items

Restructuring charge and write-off of goodwill
Writedown of investments in ABCP
Gain on disposal of investment
Gain on repurchase of preferred shares of a subsidiary
Share of net (income) loss of companies subject 

to significant influence

Income (loss) before the undernoted items

Income taxes (recovery)
Non-controlling interest in subsidiaries’ results

Net income (loss) for the year

Basic earnings (loss) per share
Diluted earnings (loss) per share

Cash flows related to:
Operating activities
Investing activities
Financing activities

Effect of exchange rate changes on cash 

and cash equivalents

Net change in cash and cash equivalents

Cash and cash equivalents, end of year
Cash provided by operations1
Total assets
Long-term debt (including current portion)
Debentures 
Shareholders’ equity
Debt/equity ratio2
Book value per share3
Return on average shareholders’ equity4

Shareholding statistics (in thousands)
Outstanding shares, end of year
Weighted average number of outstanding 

shares (undiluted)5

Weighted average number of outstanding 

shares (diluted)5

2009

2008
Restated 6

2007
Restated 6

2006

2005

3,545,341
3,451,946
93,395

3,512,851
3,385,083
127,768

3,045,917
2,907,570
136,347

2,603,746
2,476,802
126,944

2,364,481
2,243,850
120,631

51,155
4,866
2,679
(4,588)

56,147
7,538
1,758
(16,172)

50,176
6,229
1,929
(19,745)

39,360
7,264
1,484
(15,706)

37,558
10,815
1,708
(12,963)

(68,267)

106,435

(26,577)

—

—

(135)
11 967
(68)
—
—

(24)
(2,415)
95,810
30,916
(3,047)
61,847

1.86
1.85

45,234
(26,662)
18,303

(2,090)

34,785

180,552

108,380
1,129,503
107,684
3,156
367,361
0.67
9.74
17.3%

2,295
—
45,927
—
(1,605)

427
202,750
(74,982)
(28,875)
(3,287)
(49,394)

(1.49)
(1.49)

95,069
(142,027)
15,091

10,866

(21,001)

145,767

121,166
1,267,214
150,085
3,156
345,930
0.73
10.59
(16.0%)

(3,023)
3,900
11,200
—
—

(651)
23,438
112,909
34,350
(737)
77,8 22

2.30
2.27

156,728
(195,657)
(14,830)

5,640

(48,119)

166,768

125,868
1,072,377
88,681
3,156
283,452
0.74
8.43
27.0%

(4,162)
—
—
—
—

(375)
27,865
99,079
32,046
(1,263)
65,770

1.88
1.85

102,511
(31,405)
(152,046)

2,332

(78,608)

214,887

104,802
959,195
84,248
3,156
295,963
0.69
8.80
20.0%

(2,309)
(934)
—
(5,747)
—

(461)
27,667
92,964
36,302
(1,246)
55,416

1.43
1.33

52,299
(21,333)
(44,091)

(4,255)

(17,380)

293,495

78,014
949,537
93,613
13,156
362,383
0.62
9.02
16.0%

37,729

32,678

33,628

33,648

40,156

33,168

33,108

33,763

34,907

37,863

33,485

33,108

34,212

35,660

41,684

1 Represents cash flows from operating activities excluding the net change in non-cash working capital balances related to operations, the net change in the provision for

aircraft overhaul and the net change in other assets and liabilities related to operationsl

2Total liabilities divided by the total assets.
3Total shareholders’ equity divided by the number of outstanding shares
4 Net income (loss) divided by the average shareholders’ equity
5 See note 15 to the audited Consolidated Financial Statements.
6 See note 3 to the audited Consolidated Financial Statements.

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

67

Board of Directors

Management

Jean-Marc Eustache1a
Chairman of the Board
President and Chief Executive Officer
Transat A.T. Inc.

André Bisson, O.C.1, 3a, 4
Chairman of the Board,  
CIRANO
Chancellor Emeritus, Université de Montréal

John P. Cashman 4
President, Humphrey Management Limited
Mr. Cashman announced that he does not intend to seek
renewal of his mandate as director at the shareholders’ meeting.

Lina De Cesare
Advisor to the President, 
Transat A.T. Inc.

Jean Pierre Delisle 3
Corporate Director and Executor of estates

H. Clifford Hatch Jr.1, 2, 4a
President and Chief Executive Officer 
of Cliffco Investments Limited

Jean-Yves Leblanc
Corporate Director

Jacques Simoneau 4
Executive Vice President, Investment,
Business Development Bank of Canada

Philippe Sureau
Advisor to the President, 
Transat A.T. Inc.

John D. Thompson1, 2a, 3
Corporate Director 

Dennis Wood, O.C. 2
President and Chief Executive Officer, 
DWH Inc.

1 Executive Committee
2 Human Resources and

Compensation Committee

3 Audit Committee
4 Corporate Governance and
Nominating Committee
a President of the Committee

Jean-Marc Eustache
President and Chief Executive Officer  

Nelson Gentiletti
Chief Operating Officer

Michel Bellefeuille 
Vice-President 
and Chief Information Officer

Bernard Bussières
Vice-President, General Counsel 
and Corporate Secretary

André De Montigny
Vice-President, 
Corporate Development

Michel Lemay
Vice-President,
Communications and Corporate Affairs

Jean-Luk Pellerin
Vice-President, 
Human Resources and Chief Talent Officer

Denis Pétrin
Vice-President, 
Finance and Administration and Chief
Financial Officer

Air Consultants Europe
Marc Koenis
General Manager

Air Transat
Allen B. Graham
President and Chief Executive Officer

Canadian Affair
Anette Rayner
President and General Manager

Handlex
Jean-Luc Paiement
President and General Manager

Jonview Canada
Annick Guérard
Vice-President and General Manager

Tourgreece
Vassilis P. Sakellaris
President

Transat Distribution Canada
Yves Lalumière
Vice-President and General Manager

Transat France
Patrice Caradec
President and General Manager 

Transat Tours Canada
Michael DiLollo
President

Trip Central
Richard Vanderlubbe
President

68

2009 ANNUAL REPORT, TRANSAT A.T. INC.

Head Office

Transat A.T. Inc.
Place du Parc
300 Léo-Pariseau Street, Suite 600
Montréal, Québec  H2X 4C2
Telephone: 514.987.1660
Fax: 514.987.8035
www.transat.com
info@transat.com

Information

www.transat.com
For additional information, contact
in writing the Vice-President, 
Finance and Administration
and Chief Financial Officer.

Ce rapport annuel est disponible en
français

Stock Exchange

Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX)
TRZ.B; TRZ.A.

Transfer Agent and Registrar 

CIBC Mellon Trust Company 
2001 University Street, Suite 1600
Montréal, Québec
H3A 2A6
Toll-free: 1.800.387.0825
inquiries@cibcmellon.com
www.cibcmellon.com

Auditors

Ernst & Young LLP
Montréal, Québec

Annual General 
Meeting 
of Shareholders
March 11, 2010 
10:00 a.m.
Centre Mont-Royal
Salon Cartier
2200 Mansfield
Montréal QC  H3A 3R8

Graphic design: Claude Angers
Photos: Pierre Charbonneau