Southwest Airlines And Pilot Union Agree On New Contract.

(CTN News) – Southwest Airlines and its pilot union have reached a preliminary agreement on a fresh contract that would grant pilots a 50% salary increase over the next four years.

On Thursday, the board of directors of the Southwest Airlines Pilots Association (SWAPA) unanimously decided to submit the agreement to its pilot membership, which consists of over 11,000 individuals, for their consideration.

The board’s decision was based on their conviction that the agreement, which would be effective until December 2028, “fulfills the objectives of the pilot group, ensures the well-being of their families, and recognizes their exceptional productivity within the industry.”

In addition to the substantial pay raise over the contract duration, the proposed contract would also enhance flight schedules, provide improved disability coverage, and increase retirement benefits, as stated by the pilot union.

“We understand that the past few years have been challenging for both our pilots and our customers, but we firmly believe that this tentative agreement not only rewards our pilots but also enhances reliability for our passengers,” remarked SWAPA President Capt. Casey Murray in a formal statement.

The union has taken a significant step forward in its negotiations with the Dallas-based carrier, a process that has been ongoing for nearly four years.

Earlier this year, the union even went so far as to authorize a potential strike and Southwest Airlines established a regional strike center in Texas, to exert pressure on the airline to reach a deal when it seemed like talks were at a standstill.

Pilots now have until January 22nd to cast their votes on the proposed agreement. This development comes several months after Southwest Airlines successfully concluded negotiations with their respective unions.

In August, American Airlines pilots gave their approval to a new contract that not only enhances pilot schedules but also includes a pay increase over the next four years.

This approval came about a month after United Airlines and its pilot union reached an agreement on a contract that would raise pilot pay by up to 40% over four years.

In March, Delta pilots also voted in favor of a new contract that offers substantial pay raises and improved benefits.

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