Pilots at Allegiant Airline have voted to authorize a potential strike, demanding better wages and scheduling conditions. Their union, Teamsters Local 2118, claims the airline’s offers fall short of industry standards. The pilots argue that despite Allegiant’s significant financial success, they are still not receiving fair compensation or work-life balance.
Allegiant Airline, which reported record revenues of $2.5 billion in 2023, has proposed a 50% increase in pilot wages. Additionally, the airline has promised substantial improvements in retirement benefits and scheduling. However, the union believes these offers still leave pilots overworked and underpaid compared to industry norms. They contend that Allegiant’s financial prosperity should be reflected in better pay for its employees.
Currently, the pilots and the airline are engaged in mediation talks overseen by the National Mediation Board (NMB). Under the Railway Labor Act, pilots cannot strike unless the NMB declares an impasse and allows a 30-day cooling-off period. If no agreement is reached by then, the pilots may officially walk off the job.
The threat of a strike is serious. Allegiant serves numerous destinations, and a work stoppage could disrupt travel plans for thousands of passengers. In preparation, Teamsters Local 2118 has scheduled a practice picket at Allegiant’s headquarters to raise awareness and rally public support for their cause.
The situation remains unresolved, with both sides continuing negotiations. If the cooling-off period passes without a deal, Allegiant Airline pilots could take further action, potentially impacting the airline’s operations nationwide.
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