Carrier Will Operate Normally During December

It appears there will be enough pilots to keep American Airlines operating on a normal schedule during the holiday season after a glitch in a scheduling system allowed too many to request time off during the holidays.

But now, the airline and its pilot union have gotten things back on track, according to statements from both sides of the snafu.

"Earlier this week, American Airlines shared that a processing error resulted in some concern as to whether our flights over the December holidays would have adequate pilot staffing. We are pleased to report that together, American and the Allied Pilots Association (APA) have put that worry to rest to make sure our flights will operate as scheduled," American said in a statement posted on its website. "By working together, we can assure customers that among the many stresses of the season, worrying about a canceled flight won’t be one of them. In short, if Santa is flying, so is American. Much appreciation to APA President Capt. Dan Carey and our 15,000 professional aviators who are doing their part to cover the holiday schedule and beyond. As always, when there’s a need, the American Airlines team comes together to take care of each other and our customers."

The APA leadership met with American Airlines senior management today to discuss APA’s grievance concerning restrictions on premium pay and trip trading for December flying," the APA said in its posted statement.

"APA and management have reached an agreement in principle addressing our respective needs, and we have withdrawn our grievance.

"With this agreement in principle, we anticipate that American Airlines will be able to maintain a full December schedule as planned for its passengers.

"Thank you for your outstanding support and for your commitment to our passengers’ interests, who can now count on American Airlines to take them to and from their holiday destinations around the globe."

USA Today reports that American had initially offered pilots 150 percent normal on many routes where they were understaffed. But the union balked, saying it had not been consulted on the bonus pay solution.

American has more than 200,000 flights scheduled for December.

(Image from file)

FMI: www.aa.com, www.alliedpilots.org