Allegiant Air Pilots Picket in Des Moines for Job Improvements

Allegiant Air Pilots Hold Picket to Demand Better Working Conditions

On December 3, 2024, approximately 30 Allegiant Air pilots gathered outside Des Moines International Airport (DSM) to advocate for improved job conditions. This demonstration underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Allegiant pilots as they push for better pay and working conditions. The pilots, represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT), are prepared to strike if their demands are not met.

Allegiant Pilots in Mediation for Two Years

Allegiant Air and its pilots’ union have been engaged in federally mandated mediation with the National Mediation Board for the past two years. During this time, negotiators have been discussing critical issues, including pay raises, pilot work schedules, and overall working conditions.

In a press release dated November 7, 2024, Teamsters Local 2118 highlighted that Allegiant pilots are among the most “overworked and underpaid” in the airline industry. The union emphasized that despite the airline’s record revenue of $2.5 billion in 2023, pilots are still fighting for fair compensation.

Strong Support for Strike Action

On October 25, 2024, a significant majority of Allegiant Air pilots, represented by Teamsters Local 2118, voted in favor of a nationwide strike. An impressive 97.4% expressed their willingness to take action if the airline does not agree to fair terms. Teamsters Local 2118 currently represents 1,300 pilots across the United States, with 42 stationed in Des Moines, one of Allegiant’s operational bases.

Key Issues Under Discussion

The current negotiations involve several crucial topics:

• Pay Raises: Pilots are advocating for competitive salaries that reflect their workload and industry standards.
• Work Schedules: Adjustments to pilot schedules are necessary to reduce fatigue and improve work-life balance.
• Working Conditions: Enhancements in overall working conditions are essential for pilot well-being.

For more information on the ongoing negotiations, you can visit the National Mediation Board for updates on mediation processes.

Conclusion: The Fight for Fair Conditions Continues

As Allegiant Air pilots rally for fair treatment, the outcome of these negotiations will be pivotal not only for the pilots but also for the airline industry as a whole. Share your thoughts on this ongoing situation, and stay tuned for further updates on Allegiant Air’s negotiations. For related articles on airline labor disputes, check out our coverage on airline negotiations and the impact on employee rights.