American Airlines passengers in July can expect some cancelled flights because of flight reductions attributed in part to a shortage of pilots. American Airlines handles about 24,000 passengers a day, so even a 1% reduction in the schedule could have an impact.
The pilot situation follows a 1.5% cutback planned for this month, which was also blamed partly on higher usage of sick leave by pilots.
Another factor: The airline also saw an increase in pilot retirements last month — 57 pilots retired in May compared with 15 the month before, according to the union.
American, the nation’s third-largest airline, and parent AMR Corp. filed for bankruptcy protection in November after losing more than $10 billion over the previous decade. The company blames high fuel and labor costs.
AMR hopes to cut labor costs by $1.25 billion a year, says the AP. Much of the savings would come from eliminating nearly 12,000 union jobs.
AMR spokesman Bruce Hicks said that by reducing scheduled flights, American "will ensure we provide our customers with reliable service while minimizing any impact to their travel plans."
By David Wilkening
