Pilots believe more mergers inevitable if US carriers are to compete

Air Line Pilots Association's (ALPA) new President Lee Moak stated more mergers of US airlines are inevitable, and essential for domestic carriers, to compete globally (Reuters, 16-Feb-2011). He also stated that passenger airlines are still too vulnerable to fuel price spikes and other business conditions that threaten industry profitability. Mr Moak also stated that "there is a time and place for confrontation". He stated carriers must demonstrate sustained profitability for pilots to benefit at the bargaining table but stated it would be a mistake for airline management to misinterpret the labour group's position on "constructive engagement".

ALPA: "I believe we need to be there sooner rather than later because we need to compete globally. How it will shake out remains to be seen," Lee Moak, President. Source: Reuters, 16-Feb-2011.