FedEx and its express pilots have struck a pay and conditions deal to end over two years ofcontract wrangling.
The new four-year labour contract – reported to be worth 9% in the first year, 3% in each ofthe following years and which includes improved retirement provisions, healthcare benefits andstricter working rules – was approved by almost 95% of FedEx Express’s 4,700 pilots in the USand Canada, the parties announced yesterday.
Talks between FedEx and the pilot’s union, ALPA (Air Line Pilots Association), began in March2004, but broke down last year and were finalised with the help of the US National Mediation Board.
“FedEx Express and ALPA have worked tirelessly over the last two years to reach what we allbelieve is a competitive and mutually beneficial contract,” said David Bronczek, FedEx Expresspresident and CEO. The new agreement, with “industry-leading pay”, Bronczek pointed out, recognisedthe pilots’ contribution to the success of the company and rewarded them for their dedication, hesaid.
ALPA’s FedEx representative, David Webb commented: “Improvements in this contract werepossible because of the strength and support of our members throughout the negotiating process. Wecongratulate our pilots and FedEx for this outstanding achievement.”
