Fractional Pilots Demand Better Wages and Benefits

NetJets pilots picketed Wednesday at Centennial Airport outside the TAC Air facility to "raise awareness about protracted, four-year contract negotiations with NetJets Aviation Inc."

Pilots who work for NetJets, a subsidiary of Warren Buffett's conglomerate, claim that they "provide transportation solutions to some of the world's wealthiest and most influential individuals to destinations around the world on-demand."

It is the pilots' contention that are recognized as the safest in the private jet industry, yet endure low wages, insufficient benefits and unreasonable scheduling demands. The average salary for a NetJets first officer is only 40 percent of the industry average for the same type of equipment flown.

The average salary of a NetJets captain is only 55 percent of the industry average for the same type of equipment flown. The starting salary for a NetJets first officer is $27,108 annually.

NetJets has been a pivotal player in the fractional industry since its inception and currently claims over half of the market share.

"It is time for senior management to do what is right and agree to a contract that recognizes the dedication and excellence of these pilots," said Sonya Cook, spokesperson for Teamsters Local 1108 in Columbus, Ohio.

In July, NetJets pilots voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike. "The pilots have become impatient and disgusted with the surface bargaining and delay tactics of management," Cook said.

"The pilots have lost confidence in management and strike preparations have begun in earnest."

FMI: www.ibt1108.org/index.html