With Unanimous Approval For The Authorization Vote, The Fedex Pilot Union Inches Closer To Striking

According to a Wednesday news release, the union that represents FedEx pilots unanimously endorsed a strike authorization ballot last week.

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The release stated that there are no plans for further contract negotiations between FedEx management and the FedEx Express Master Executive Council of the Air Line Pilots Association International.

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After nearly six months of federally mediated discussions, "the decision to move closer to a strike authorization vote is the result of our unhappiness with FedEx management's behavior at the bargaining table," said FedEx MEC chair Captain Chris Norman.

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Since May 2021, FedEx pilots and management have been in talks. The corporation has allegedly failed to "acknowledge pilot efforts," according to a statement on the FedEx pilots' website.

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FedEx said in a statement that the decision by ALPA leadership to potentially hold a strike authorization vote at a later time "has no impact on our service as we continue to deliver for our customers around the world."

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As the airline sector recovers from the Covid-19 outbreak and anticipates record losses of almost $35 billion in 2020, tensions have been high. The pandemic further stalled contract negotiations with pilots and flight attendants at a time when the industry is dealing with a pilot shortage and increased prices.

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A strike would only take place if talks failed and the federal government approved a walkout in accordance with the Railway Labor Act's necessary procedures. The National Mediation Board, which was brought in to assist with contract discussions in October, would have to release both parties from mediation.

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Pilots and management could take self-help measures after 30 days, which could include a union strike or a lockout of the corporation.

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"FedEx pilots are committed to working with management to come to an agreement, but we won't back down from our commitment to provide a contract that honors pilot efforts in making FedEx the industry leader it is today," Norman said. "Our customers and stockholders should be informed that the pilots may be moving toward a strike in the near future, even if a vote authorizing one has not yet been called," the statement reads.

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FedEx customers should prepare alternative transportation in the case of a pilot strike, according to a statement by pilot leaders. Only a few issues are still up for discussion, according to the statement.

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The report comes one month after the Southwest Airlines pilots' union requested a vote to approve a potential strike due to deteriorating contract talks. In November, the pilots of Delta Air Lines also decided to approve a potential strike.

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Potential contracts were rejected by the unions that together represent around 30,000 pilots at American Airlines and United Airlines in November.