American Airlines, unions make new push to win government payroll assistance

American Airlines CE Doug Parker and seven major airline unions on Wednesday made a new push to win additional government assistance to keep nearly 20,000 workers on the payroll past Oct. 1. In a letter to congressional leaders, the White House and Treasury, Parker and the unions warned “nearly 20,000 American Airlines team members are facing furloughs in just two short weeks, and several markets in our domestic network are at risk of significant reductions in air service.” The letter implored the leaders “to find a way to work together to reach agreement on a COVID-19 relief bill that includes a clean extension” of payroll support. White House press secretary Kayleigh McEnany did not offer details on what actions the administration might take to help airlines. “The president has mentioned previously that he wanted to take a good look at airlines and help where he can. Of course, we need Congress in a lot of this,” she said. The letter added: “Our conversations with each of you suggest a deal is within reach, and there is no time to waste.”<br/>