American Airlines pilots have agreed to a new contract that increases total salary and benefits by a reported $9.6 billion over four years. The Allied Pilots Association (APA) represents some 15,000 American Airlines pilots and announced that the contract won the support of 72.5 percent of the members who voted. The deal calls for an immediate pay increase of more than 21 percent, with total increases amounting to more than 46 percent over the course of the contract term.
APA President Ed Sicher told Reuters, “It’s unprecedented and historic. For pilots, the biggest victory is not just the wages, but the work/life stuff.” APA maintains that 20 percent of the increased value of the contract come from quality-of-life improvements. Sicher cited the example of pilots receiving premium pay should American reassign them from a trip they bid on, or one they have asked to fly.
The deal is said to be a reflection of the increased bargaining power pilots have in light of the current pilot shortage.
