American Airlines pilots seek better contract ahead of vote

American Airlines and its pilot union have begun negotiations to improve their tentative contract agreement on Tuesday ahead of a crucial vote on the contract, according to a union memo seen by Reuters. The Texas-based carrier's pilots are due to start voting Monday on a new four-year deal that provides for a pay increase of about 42% and other benefits. But the Allied Pilots Association (APA), which represents them, warned ratification was in "jeopardy" after United Airlines raised the benchmark in its pilots' contract. "Our respective bargaining teams have committed to working around the clock beginning tonight for the next few days to address crucial improvements," APA's head Ed Sicher told the pilots in a memo on Tuesday. US union employees are piling pressure on their employers for better contracts amid frustration with stagnant pay, high healthcare costs, scanty sick time and uncertain scheduling. In the memo, Sicher said American Airlines CEO Robert Isom has "acknowledged that significant improvements must be made" to the agreement. A union spokesperson said the talks began on Tuesday and will continue on Wednesday. American Airlines declined to comment. On Tuesday, the company said it would work with the union to take care of its pilots. American's union has said United's contract will lead to at least a 2% pay gap between American and United pilots. United's contract also offers better back pay, as well as more days off for junior pilots and sick time, it added.<br/>