United to delay pilot furlough date while union weighs broader deal

United has agreed to delay the effective date of pilot furloughs until Oct. 30 while union members vote on a broader deal that would protect some 2,850 jobs for months longer. However, pilots will not be paid during the month of October if that deal does not pass, according to a memorandum of understanding between United and the union representing its 13,000 pilots that was seen by Reuters. "Our pilots are voting right now on a tentative agreement that, if approved, would avoid all pilot furloughs for at least nine months," United spokesman Frank Benenati said on Wednesday. He noted that the company continues to push for an extension of federal payroll support. If lawmakers fail to agree to extend $25b in payroll aid for airlines this month, tens of thousands of employees are set to be furloughed on Oct. 1.<br/>