Denver

Frontier Pilots Ready to Soar on Strike: 99% Vote Yes Amid Stalemate in Denver-Based Contract Talks

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Published on October 16, 2024
Frontier Pilots Ready to Soar on Strike: 99% Vote Yes Amid Stalemate in Denver-Based Contract TalksSource: Eddie Maloney from North Las Vegas, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In a recent and significant move within the airline industry, Frontier Airlines pilots have shown overwhelming support for strike action, with a staggering 99% in favor if their contract negotiations reach a stalemate. Pilots have been in talks with the Denver-based airline for a new contract for around a year, but an agreement remains elusive. The Air Line Pilots Association representing Frontier's pilots participated in the vote, where approximately 97% cast their ballots, according to Denver7.

Captain Alan Christie, affiliated with Frontier Airlines, noted that the industry has progressed since their last contract, which has not been updated in nearly five and a half years. Despite the pilots' strong endorsement for strike action, a Frontier spokesman, Rob Harris, expressed the company's commitment to good faith negotiations, as obtained by the Denver Post. He said, "Frontier remains committed to negotiating in good faith to achieve an agreement that supports our pilots and ensures the continued success of our company."

The Airline Pilots Association (ALPA), indicated that negotiations thus far have failed to yield a market-based contract, that aligns with industry standards and respects the contributions of Frontier pilots. This lack of progress prompted the strike authorization ballot, which was announced on September 30, as reported by Simple Flying. Frontier's approximately 2,200 pilots are arguing for terms that are commensurate with industry standards, at a time when career stability and competitive remuneration are in sharp focus across the aviation sector.

The results of the pilot's vote echo a similar sentiment among Frontier's flight attendants, who last month also voted to authorize a strike amid their contract negotiations, Denver7 reported. Frontier Airlines, a principal low-cost carrier, offers flights to over 120 destinations across the United States, Mexico, and Central America. The growing discord amongst its workforce comes at a time when the airline employs more than 3,000 individuals and operates in an increasingly competitive airline industry. With the strike authorization secured, the ball is now in Frontier's court to steer the negotiations to a favorable outcome for both parties involved.