Spirit Airlines’ pilots to walk off job in June

Spirit Airlines’ pilots have set June 12 as the date in which they will walk off the job if they do not receive a new contract. This news comes as the pilots’ union rejected binding arbitration Wednesday with the low-cost carrier.

The Florida based airline said the company is continuing to work out a new deal with the union, but informed employees possible job cuts could be on the horizon. Even if a strike were to occur, Spirit said it would continue operating normally.

In a statement, Spirit Airline said it wants a contact “that effectively
ensures the long-term stability and growth of the company, as well as
providing for rewarding and stable careers for our pilots and
co-workers who do a great job for the company.”

Both sides have actually been going back and forth on a new contract for over three years, with the union saying little progress has been made. The pilots’ union added that even though Spirit is making money, they have informed employees of cuts in their benefits.

Spirit has been making headlines lately with such new features as adding pre-reclined seats and imposing a new $45 carry-on baggage fee which goes into effect August 1.

Source:  Associated Press