American Airlines Pilots Consider Shift to ALPA Representation

A growing number of pilots at American Airlines are showing interest in a potential change in union representation. While the carrier’s 16,000 pilots are currently represented by the Allied Pilots Association (APA), recent polling suggests that a majority are open to exploring a merger with the larger Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA).

According to a survey conducted by the University of New Hampshire Survey Center, 58% of pilots said they either “strongly” or “somewhat” support the formation of a committee to explore the potential merger. The survey included interviews with 908 APA pilots between February 3 and 13.

ALPA, which represents pilots at major North American carriers including Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, has long been seen as a powerful force in aviation labor representation.

Despite the majority support, about 25% of those polled expressed firm opposition to the idea, saying they do not support a merger or even funding an exploratory committee.

An internal memo from APA noted that while no unanimous consensus exists, there is a “majority who want to go forward.” The survey findings were shared with APA directors in late March.

This isn’t the first sign of movement. A group known as “AA Pilots for ALPA” reported last year that it had gathered over 8,200 support cards — around half of the pilot group — in favor of the merger initiative.

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