Delta Air Lines Pilots to Avoid Furloughs until 2022

Details of the Agreement

As a result of Wednesdays agreement, DL can reduce pilot’s guaranteed flight hours by up to 5%. Additionally, the 1,713 pilot set to be furloughed on November 28th will receive 30 hours per month in partial pay, medical benefits and vacation accrual. For those affected, this agreement will run until 2022, or until they can return in full capacity–whichever comes first.

Delta COO John Laughter was optimistic about the conclusion of the deal. “We are grateful to keep all our pilots actively employed and provide stability for you and your families”, he said in a note to pilots on Wednesday.

The holiday season is expected to be turbulent for the airline industry as COVID-19 cases continue to reach record numbers in the US. The Center for Disease Control issued a guideline for holiday travel, recommending Americans to “celebrate at home with the people you live with.”

Despite this, Laughter remained upbeat about the coming months. “There is still much to be thankful for, and by working together we continue to maintain and grow a loyal customer base that feels confident choosing Delta time and again for our safety, reliability and service.”

Featured Image: Delta Airbus A330-300. PHOTO: Nicholas Vitolano/Airways