Pilots for American Airlines have said NO to the company's offer of a 50 percent pay increase to work during the holidays. American Airlines is trying to head off staffing shortages during the busy holiday travel season.
The union that represents about 14,000 American pilots says right now it's more important to focus on ongoing contract negotiations than a temporary pay boost. The union is negotiating for better scheduling for its pilots, along with better benefits and a pay increase.
However, the Fort Worth-based airline is trying to keep workers on the job during Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's to avoid staffing problems that lead to widespread cancellations like they have seen in recent months. The airline is offering some generous bonuses, including triple pay for some flight attendants and $1,000 bonuses for workers with perfect attendance.
American says it needs as many employees as possible on the job to keep holiday operations running smoothly.
The airline is also working to hire more pilots to replace those who left during the pandemic and to cover those who are getting ready to retire.
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