American Airlines pilots vote to strike during negotiations

American Airlines Pilots have voted overwhelmingly for their union to call a strike, and the airline says talks to sign a new contract are nearing conclusion.

Pilot strikes are rare and require approval from the federal National Arbitration Board. The vote does not mean that a decision to call a strike will be made immediately.

More than 96% of American pilots participated in the poll, and 99% voted for the union to call a strike, the United Pilots Association announced Monday.

The APA called a strike vote in March as talks on a new deal stalled. American Airlines CEO Robert Esom said the airline is ready to take on its rival. Delta Air LinesThe pilots approved a four-year deal earlier this year with 34% raises and other improvements.

“Today is a proud milestone in the unity and commitment of our pilot team and an important step on our way to securing the contract we’ve earned and deserve – one that will keep the leadership from moving at a discount to our competitors and add quality to our ‘must have’ – life priorities,” said APA President Capt. Ed Sicher. They wrote to the pilots on Monday.

An American Airlines spokeswoman said the carrier believes the deal is “within reach” and that “few” issues remain to be finalized.

“The finish line is in sight,” she said in a statement. “We understand that a strike authorization vote is one of the most important ways pilots express their desire to strike a deal, and we respect the message of the election results.”

Including higher 401(k) contributions, at the end of American’s four-year deal, captains flying narrow-body jets will earn $475,000 at the top of the scale, while captains of wide-body jets will earn $590,000. per year according to the recent contract proposal.

Pilot contract talks have been difficult in the industry, including in America. United Airlines And Southwest AirlinesWith demand for travel improving following the pandemic, pilots are looking not only for pay raises, but also for quality-of-life improvements such as better, more predictable schedules.