Pilots

[linevans60]

What is happening at AA with recall of furloughed pilots. When will this happen? I heard that UA is talkng about starting classes.

 

[eolesen]

Unlikely within the next six to eight months, if you read between the lines of the various statements being made by both the APA and the company. My guess is that both sides are working hard to find ways of increasing the number of hours actually flown by the existing pilot base so that there's no need to backfill the current rate of attrition in the immediate future. That allows the company to save money by not paying guarantees, ensures that the pilots aren't losing any money in the process, and lowers the overall size of the workgroup without incurring any layoffs.

Recalls are even more unlikely if Age 60 barrier is finally repealed. SWAPA (Southwest Pilots) are for eliminating Age 60, and not surprisinglu, they have no pilots on furlough. ALPA and APA are said to be evenly divided on the issue, since many pilots closer to retirement have a need to keep earning now that their lump sums and high dollar pensions are either gone or in jeopardy.

 

[ZMAN777]

I heard that UA is talkng about starting classes.

UA has recalled just over 200 furloughed pilots through 2005, most of which have already returned to the line. The projection is for roughly 300 to be recalled in 2006.

I agree that with APA talking with the Company about productivity improvements I wouldn't expect any recalls of AA pilots for quite some time. Perhaps a year or more out.

Cheers,
Z B)