- American Airlines pilots have approved a new contract that includes an immediate 21% pay increase.
- The airline is only the second major U.S. airline to sign a pilot deal this year.
- After the United Airlines union reached a better deal with the airline, American declined the contract offer.
An American Airlines plane takes off from Miami International Airport in Miami, Florida, May 2, 2023.
Joe Ladle | Getty Images
American Airlines pilots have approved relaxed working conditions, making the airline the second major U.S. airline to sign new contracts with the highest-paid workforce.
American Airlines’ more than 15,000 pilots will receive an immediate pay raise of 21%, and their compensation will increase by more than 46% over the course of their four-year contracts, including 401(k) contributions, the union said Monday.
A previous agreement between American Airlines and its unions fell apart after rival United Airlines and its airline unions reached a more substantial preliminary agreement. But American Airlines increased its offer last month.
More than 72% of American Airlines pilots voted in favor of the new contract, with a turnout of 95%, according to the Allied Pilots Association. The deal also includes schedule and benefits improvements.
Pilots are pushing airlines to improve salaries and work rules as the industry faces shortages of aviators due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“With this agreement, American Airlines will immediately expand its pilot training capabilities to support its underutilized fleet and future flights,” American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said in a statement. We can offer pilots more opportunities for career advancement.”
Delta Air Lines pilots ratified the new agreement earlier this year.
