Nearly 450 pilots represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA) ratified a two-year contract extension with CommuteAir improving pay, benefits, and work rules on Monday.
In an emailed news release, ALPA said that the agreement is “a major step forward in the United Express carrier’s efforts to attract and retain qualified pilots in a competitive market.”
CommuteAir, headquartered in North Olmsted, Ohio, operates in U.S. cities using Embraer ERJ-145 aircraft. The carrier operates out of Washington Dulles International Airport in Virginia, and George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston.
ALPA stated that of the 85% of eligible pilots who cast ballots, 87% voted in favor of the agreement with CommuteAir. The contract extension is effective this month running through Dec. 31, 2028. Some benefits included in the agreement are:
- An average pay increase of 37.7% and up to 44% for captains, and a 20.5% increase for first officers.
- Annual compounding pay increases of up to 2%.
- A mandatory minimum new-hire bonus of $20,000.
Eliminating Bonus Repayment
Additionally, pilots will no longer be required to repay their retention bonuses, and their existing obligations to do so will be fully eliminated by July 31, 2025. ALPA told AirlineGeeks in an email that retention bonuses for flight officers are $25,000 per year, and captains are $50,000 per year.
“We are incredibly pleased that we have collaboratively ratified this new contract,” said CommuteAir’s President and CEO, Rick Hoefling, in a statement. “This agreement reflects the strong partnership we’ve built with our pilots, and it ensures that we continue to prioritize the safety, well-being, and professional growth of our entire team. This new contract not only strengthens our foundation today, but also positions us for success in the future.”
The release stated that over the next four years, CommuteAir pilots will earn an additional $55 million in hourly rates, translating to an average pay increase of 41.2% overall.
“This agreement recognizes the value and professionalism of our pilots and indicates a path forward for growth and stability in regional airline contracts,” said Captain Liam Corcoran, CommuteAir’s master executive council chair, in the release. “It provides immediate and long-term stability for our pilot group and strengthens our 50-seat operation. It shows CommuteAir is taking proactive steps to attract and retain the highly skilled pilots necessary for continued operational success.”
“This agreement positions CommuteAir pilots among the highest paid in the regional airline industry and demonstrates the company’s commitment to its pilots and its passengers,” the release continued.
