CLEVELAND — Thousands of United Airlines pilots from coast to coast hit the picket line Friday morning, including several dozen at Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. 

Many had signs voicing their displeasure at the company’s management. 

What You Need To Know

  • United Airlines pilots hit the picket line Friday in 10 locations across the country 

  • The union remains at odds with the company over wages and their scheduling system 

  • Pilots say retaining talent and safety are also big concerns 

Cleveland is one of 10 locations across the country that took part.

Pilots are unhappy with United’s outdated scheduling system and claim their contract is not up to industry standards. 

The head of United Airlines’ union says they are seeking a contract similar to Delta Airlines’ landmark deal, which offers $7 billion in wage increases and benefits. 

On Friday, Spectrum News spoke to those pilots in Cleveland who are frustrated and disappointed with the lack of progress, including veteran 737 Captain Joe Morowitz. 

“Management understands what we’re asking for. We have polling data, we have economic data from the company. We know this is something that they can support, but so far they’ve been unwilling to. And in order to keep that level of safety, it’s so important that we’re able to attract, and retain the most highly qualified pilots in the industry,” says Morowitz. 

United Airlines’ contract first came up for renewal in 2019 and negotiations have taken place for the last five years. 

United Airlines responded to the pickets with a statement saying, "We’re continuing to work with the Air Line Pilots Association on the industry-leading deal we have put on the table for our world-class pilots. All United flights will operate as planned while our pilots exercise their right to distribute information and picket while off-duty."