Continental Pilots Swarm New York Financial District

March 12, 2008 - More than 500 pilots from Continental and other ALPA pilot groups sent a strong message to New York City’s financial markets: management must deal with pilots to build successful airlines.

The Continental pilots’ March 12 Unification Rally in the Financial District and Battery Park was supported by ALPA leaders and SPSC members. Among the pilot groups represented were Alaska, Delta, ExpressJet, and United. Speakers included Continental MEC chairman, Capt. Jay Pierce, local union representative Capt. Al Brandano, and ALPA president, Capt. John Prater.

Continental pilots gave up more than $200 million annually in concessions in their last contract as a “loan” to help their airline overcome the threat of bankruptcy and help management achieve success. Continental is now one of the most prosperous airline carriers, achieving a 2007 pre-tax profit of $566M. Continental pilots believe the time for repayment of their “loan” is now due and they should share in the rewards and profits made possible by their sacrifices that are now being enjoyed by management. Continental pilots are preparing for the start of negotiations for the economic items of their contract which becomes amendable Dec. 31, 2008.

Watch video coverage of the rally: Windows Media fileDSL/Cable | Dial-Up