United Airlines Requests Unpaid Leave for Pilots Amid Boeing 737 Woes

United Airlines is asking its pilots to take time off in May due to delays in receiving new Boeing planes, particularly the 737 Max models, which are facing production and certification issues. The airline expects similar requests throughout the summer and possibly into the fall, and is considering options to replace orders for the Max 10. This comes as Boeing is under increased scrutiny following an Alaska Airlines Max 9 incident, and United anticipates financial losses in the first quarter due to grounded Max 9s. United CEO Scott Kirby has been vocal about the problems at Boeing and is seeking a meeting with Boeing directors, as the company undergoes a leadership shakeup.