View The Option As Their Best Choice During COVID-19 Pandemic

Some 620 American Airlines pilots have opted for early retirement in the face of furloughs and layoffs brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Dallas Business Journal reports that the number was confirmed by the Allied Pilots Association, but American declined to comment on the development.

The early retirement option is open to pilots age 62 and over. Mandatory retirement age is 65. The plan offers about 60 percent of pay, plus medical and travel benefits until the pilot reaches age 65.

APA spokesman Capt. Jason Goldberg said that the pilots looked at their options and determined that an early retirement would be their "best choice". The retirement is optional, but Capt. Goldberg said that the union fully expects that the option will be granted to those who choose to end their careers early.

The airline had initially estimated that about 560 pilots would opt for early retirement. It is one of three options offered by the carrier as passenger numbers fall, flights are cancelled and airplanes are grounded. Pilots choosing to remain with the airline can bid on short-term or extended leave, according to the union.

(Image from file)

FMI: Source report