Allegiant pilots threaten to strike ahead of holidays

For some flyers there could be cause for concern as pilots with allegiant voted to strike if a negotiation agreement is not met.

According to reports Teamsters Local 2118, which is representing the pilots, and Allegiant Air have been in negotiations for the last two years.

Some reports say the move puts pressure on Allegiant to settle with the union, which represents 1,300 pilots nationwide including those who fly into Lexington’s Bluegrass Airport nd surrounding airports in Louisville and Cincinnati.

If pilots do walk off the job, it could mean thousands of travelers in and out of Bluegrass Airport would be grounded.

And, since Allegiant flies from Lexington to central Florida, a popular destination for the thanksgiving holiday, many families would have to change their plans, or scrap them altogether.

Allegiant air sent ABC 36 News a statement, listing some of the offers they have given the union.

It says in part…”Allegiant has offered a competitive package – including an immediate 50% average increase in hourly wages that scales to 70% over 5 years.”

The company also says it’s offered a 50% increase in retirement benefits, and improvements in other areas.

Union president Sean O’Brien said on the Teamsters’ website, “If allegiant thinks teamsters are going to compromise on working conditions in exchange for overdue pay raises, they are dead wrong,”

Allegiant Air also says it remains hopeful the union will work with them to agree to a deal, but time is running out before travelers start packing for their thanksgiving holiday trips.

We are working to set up an interview with teamsters to get their side.