United Airline pilots have something to celebrate despite the global travel disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The airline has recently announced that all of its pilots are receiving a 14-percent pay raise, over the next 18 months. The new contract provides pilots with a number of other benefits, such as improved overtime and premium pay, a new retirement plan, and an 8-week paid maternity leave benefit. The pay raise for United’s pilots is a sign of hope for the future, as the airline industry looks to recover from the global travel disruptions caused by the pandemic. With this new agreement, United Airlines is showing their commitment to their valued pilots, which is sure to be appreciated by pilots and aspiring pilots alike.

The pay raise is scheduled to be in effect from July 1, 2020, until June 30, 2023. It will increase the average pay for United Airlines pilots by $40,000 over the three–year period. The MEC has said that the raise was necessary for pilots to remain employed and for the airline to remain competitive. “The MEC and United have worked together to ensure that our pilots remain employed and our airline remains competitive. This pay raise will help to make sure that our pilots are well compensated in these difficult times,” said Captain Todd Insler, Chairman of the United MEC. The raise comes as the airline industry continues to struggle with the effects of the pandemic. The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has estimated that global airline revenue could fall by $419 billion in 2020, a 54 percent decline from 2019. United Airlines has been one of the hardest hit airlines due to the pandemic. The airline has seen its revenue drop by 84 percent compared to the same period last year. The airline has taken numerous steps to reduce its costs, including furloughing more than 16,000 employees and cutting pay for other workers. 

However, the pay raise for its pilots shows that the airline is determined to keep its pilots employed and ensure their long–term job security. It also shows that the airline is committed to maintaining its competitive edge during this time of disruption.