United Airlines' Pilots Agree to New Deal

United Airlines pilots have agreed to a new four-year contract with the airline that adds more than $10 billion of value to their contract and raises pay by as much as 40% over its course.

The pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), join colleagues from American Airlines and Delta Air Lines who have recently ratified new contracts with higher wages and better benefits. The industry now awaits word from Southwest pilots, the last of the "Big Four" U.S. carriers, who are in the midst of a three-and-a-half-year negotiation with that airline for a new contract.

United pilots’ new contract is effective on Sept. 29 and runs until Sept. 30, 2027. According to the Wall Street Journal, the contract includes a provision that will require other airlines to match United’s contract with ALPA pilots.

“This industry-leading contract brings substantial benefits to our pilots and could not have happened without their unity and steadfast resolve, said MEC Chair Capt. Garth Thompson. “I am proud that our pilot group will be recognized for their contributions to the company’s success. United Airlines cannot thrive without the hard work of its labor groups.”