Allegiant Airline Faces Potential Strike Threat as Pilots Demand Valuable Wage and Scheduling Changes

Saturday, November 9, 2024

Pilots with Allegiant Airlines took a bold step on Thursday by voting to authorize a strike, citing demands for concessions they claim are unfair in exchange for wage increases. This decision was confirmed by Teamsters Local 2118, which represents the pilots and has voiced concerns over the airline’s stance in ongoing negotiations. The union asserts that Allegiant has pressed for these concessions while pilots seek “industry-standard compensation” and better scheduling conditions, according to a news release.

Currently, Allegiant Airlines and the Teamsters are participating in mediation talks overseen by the National Mediation Board (NMB), a federally facilitated process mandated by the Railway Labor Act. Under this act, pilots cannot strike unless the mediation board declares an impasse, releases both parties from mediation, and implements a 30-day cooling-off period to ensure all negotiation options are exhausted. Only then, if all bargaining channels have been fully explored, could a strike be officially authorized.

Allegiant’s Proposal and Teamsters’ Concerns

Allegiant spokesperson Sonya Padgett shared details of the airline’s current offer, which includes an immediate 50% average increase in hourly wages, with an average 70% wage increase over the next five years. Additionally, Allegiant has pledged substantial improvements to retirement benefits, long-term disability plans, and scheduling practices aimed at enhancing pilots’ quality of life.

Despite these offers, the Teamsters union remains steadfast in its demand for what it considers “industry-standard” pay and scheduling. They contend that Allegiant’s terms would still leave pilots among the most overworked and underpaid in the airline industry. The union further claims that Allegiant’s request for pilot concessions in return for the proposed raises is unreasonable, especially considering the airline’s significant financial success in recent years.

Record Revenues and High-Profile Investments

In 2023, Allegiant Airlines reported record-breaking revenue of $2.5 billion, demonstrating its strong financial position within the industry. Furthermore, in 2019, Allegiant secured a $25 million annual contract for the naming rights to Allegiant Stadium, home of the Las Vegas Raiders. These high-profile financial milestones have fueled pilots’ frustration, as they argue that the company’s financial priorities should include competitive pay and fair working conditions for its workforce.

Pilots Plan Practice Picket and Future Actions

The tension between Allegiant and its pilots has led to a series of direct actions initiated by Teamsters pilots at Allegiant’s hubs across the U.S. As part of this movement, Teamsters Local 2118 has scheduled a practice picket at Allegiant’s corporate headquarters in Las Vegas on November 12, an event aimed at raising awareness about the pilots’ grievances and rallying public support. This picket is part of a coordinated effort to highlight the working conditions Allegiant pilots endure and advocate for fair compensation.

With Allegiant operating 10 nonstop destinations from Lehigh Valley International Airport—the highest of any airline serving the airport in Hanover Township, Lehigh County—the impact of a strike could have significant implications for travelers in the region.

What Lies Ahead

For now, the fate of the strike depends on the mediation outcome. If the NMB grants a release from mediation and the subsequent 30-day cooling-off period ends without a resolution, the pilots could initiate a formal strike, potentially causing widespread disruptions. Until then, Allegiant and the union are expected to continue discussions in an attempt to resolve their differences and avert a work stoppage.

Tags: allegiant airlines, Strike, travel industry