Delta and its pilot union reached an agreement to offer reduced pay as coronavirus decimates the travel sector.
The pilot union that represents its more than 14,000 have agreed to let the carrier offer partially paid time off for aviators through June, and possibly longer.
This past Friday Delta Airlines announced it would cut its flights by 40% in the next few months.
“The speed of the demand fall-off is unlike anything we’ve seen – and we’ve seen a lot in our business,” CEO Ed Bastian said in a memo to Delta’s employees.
“We are in discussions with the White House and Congress regarding the support they can provide to help us through this period. I’m optimistic we will receive their support, the airline can’t put our company’s future at risk waiting on aid from our government.”
Delta pilots who feel feverish, have a cough or difficulty breathing need to call in sick, according to a note the union sent to pilots. Pilots who are diagnosed with the disease will have pay protections for lost flying time.
“Delta and our pilots find ourselves navigating a public health and economic crisis in which the landscape changes daily,” the union said.
“Delta pilots are dedicated to the success of our airline and will continue to work with management as we navigate through these extraordinary times.”
