North American pilots are pushing for better pay and working conditions during their talks over new employment contracts with company managements. Members at some unions have voted to authorize a strike if a new contract isn’t reached.
American Airlines Group Inc, Southwest Airlines Co, Delta Air Lines, Air Canada, WestJet Airlines, United Airlines Holdings Inc, Spirit Airlines Inc, JetBlue Airways Corp and FedEx Corp are among the companies currently in negotiations with their pilots.
The Allied Pilots Association, Air Line Pilots Association and Air Canada Pilots Association have all reported overwhelming support for strike mandates from their members. The unions are pushing for “historic” workplace gains and full bargaining with the carriers.
The new contracts offer a range of benefits, including wage increases, reduced health insurance premiums, improved holiday pay, vacation, company contributions to 401(k) and work rules.
The negotiations come at a time of pilot shortages and a rise in public support for unions. While the chances of an actual labor disruption remain slim, the unions are making sure their members’ voices are heard.