United offers pilots unpaid leave to cut overstaffing amid Boeing delays
United Airlines has offered voluntary unpaid leave to its pilots next month as delays in aircraft deliveries from Boeing has left it overstaffed, according to company and union memos seen by Reuters.
A United spokesperson confirmed that the delivery delays have reduced its aircraft utilization this year, prompting the company to resort to “voluntary programs” to address excess staffing. The spokesperson declined to share more details.
However, in a staff memo, United told pilots they can take unpaid time-off for the whole month of May or on chosen dates. Pilots can also opt for a blank schedule where they will be allowed to pick and trade trips.
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While the measures are only for the month of May, United’s pilot union told its members additional programs are expected during the summer and “potentially into the fall.”
“While the delivery issues surround our 787 and 737 fleets, the impact will affect other fleets as well,” the union said in a memo on Friday. Program selection and duration is not known at this time.”
The latest move comes weeks after United announced a pause in pilot hiring in May and June.
United has cut its 2024 forecast for MAX 8 delivery from Boeing to 37 from 43 aircraft. It also expects to receive 15 fewer MAX 9s this year.
United is not alone. Rival Southwest Airlines another Boeing customer, has also stopped hiring pilots and flight attendants.
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