American Airlines pilots have approved a new labor deal with a 46 percent raise in total pay over the contract’s four-year term.
Over 15,000 American Airlines pilots will see an immediate 21 percent salary increase and receive other benefits like 401(k) contributions.
This marks the second major US airline to negotiate a new contract with its highest-paid employee group successfully.
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A prior agreement between American Airlines and the union had previously fallen apart.
This was because United Airlines and its union struck a more lucrative preliminary deal.
American Airlines revised and improved its offer last month.
According to the Allied Pilots Association, over 72 percent of its pilots voted in favor of the new contract and a remarkable 95 percent turnout.
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The deal encompasses enhancements in scheduling and benefits.
Pilots have been advocating for better pay and work conditions.
This is because the industry is facing a shortage of pilots in the aftermath of the pandemic.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom said: “This agreement will help American immediately expand our pilot training capacity to support under-utilized aircraft and future flying and provide our pilots with more opportunities to progress in their careers.”
Earlier this year, Delta Air Lines pilots ratified a new agreement.
