Originally Posted by Route66

While I was surprised at the pay increase offer, I am not inclined to believe the influence was as great from the APA nor the "no float" campaign. But speaking to many in the industry, especially the training at Piedmont and others, the pilot shortage is becoming acute, even for American. The need to map pathways to pilot futures seem to be the focus here and American has to compete for pilots right along with Delta, United and SWA. So the issues of industry pay are now taking a forefront look by all the companies in the industry. I think the realities of supply and demand are more in what the company is leaning to and to a lesser extent, though still somewhat a form of feedback, is what the APA has to say.



I still believe the Company is bypassing the union and instigating reforms outside the contract but only with both APA and outside input as what they decide. Here is the Piedmont Airlines Cadet program and the drive for pilots is shaking out: Piedmont Airlines Pilot Careers.



But I would say what comes out of todays financial report MAY certainly reveal what is the impetus for the Company's pay increases for Pilots AND Flight Attendants, but not so much because of union negotiations. The Flight Attendants just lost an arbitration to the company on this very issue and now a change of heart? Market realities and supply and demand are more the driver and NOT the power and strength of the unions.