American Airlines Increases Offer to Pilots Union Amidst Growing Travel Troubles in Air Industry

American Airlines has increased the value of its contract offer to its pilots by over $1 billion in an effort to match a deal made by rival United Airlines. The improved offer includes higher pay rates, retroactive pay, extended sick leave, increased life insurance, and other benefits. The Allied Pilots Association, representing American Airlines pilots, had warned that the ratification of the previous contract offer was in jeopardy after United Airlines reached a deal with its pilots union. Pilots will vote on the revised contract offer, with voting set to begin on July 24 and close on August 7. The negotiations come amid a travel season marked by weather-related disruptions and a shortage of pilots and air traffic controllers.