Delta and Pilots’ Union Resume Negotiation Talks
Pilots at Delta Air Lines have a new contract with hefty pay increases. The Air Line Pilots Association said Wednesday, March 1, 2023 that 78% of Delta pilots who voted supported the contract. The union says the deal will raise pay by more than 30% over four years. Delta has about 15,000 pilots. With a labor shortage, especially at smaller airlines, pilots have leverage to bargain for pay increases. The Delta deal is likely to set the pattern for negotiations at American, United and Southwest.
Negotiations have restarted between Delta Air Lines and its pilots’ union.
In July, pilots voted overwhelmingly against a tentative contract with the airline.
John Malone, who represents the union, said during the recession, pilots agreed to work more strenuous schedules, but they think it’s time for that to end.
“What we’re really looking for is just things that are related to how long a pilot’s duty day is, fatigue related issues that center around safety, and things like that,” he said.
Delta profits have soared recently, and the company said it broke records last quarter.
“With the amount of money corporations are enjoying right now the pilots found any further requests for productivity improvements objectionable,” said Malone.
He said pilots also want higher compensation, and the atmosphere is right for pay increases at airlines around the country.
In a statement, Delta said it looks forward to negotiations with the union “to reach an agreement that is good for both Delta and its pilots.”
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