The Road Ahead

Since the 2023 contract was signed, an incredible amount of work has taken place across the Association. Governance reforms have made APA more transparent, efficient, and disciplined, and the negotiating team has been revamped, trained, and better resourced. Lessons from the last bargaining cycle have been incorporated into how we are moving forward.

APA is as prepared as it has ever been to negotiate a deal worthy of your consideration.

So, What’s Next?

APA’s opener was delivered to American Airlines management on Wednesday, Aug. 19. A first step after the passage of openers is the development of a bargaining protocol agreement with management. The protocol agreement addresses how negotiation sessions will be structured and sets expectations for conduct between both parties.

The early stages of bargaining are often measured and procedural. However, through preparation, APA has positioned itself to be able to move into substantive discussions sooner than in past negotiations. The next few months will see continued coordination with APA subject matter experts, finalizing and passing initial proposals, and ongoing membership engagement. The only thing preventing a new deal by our contract’s amendable date in August 2027 would be a management team unwilling to bargain. We’re hopeful that’s not the case.

APA’s negotiating team is committed to keeping the pilot group informed; however, a lack of public announcements should not be mistaken for a lack of work or that the process is stalled. At times, effective bargaining may require strategic silence.

Meet Your Section 6 Leadership

Over the coming months, we will be highlighting your Section 6 leadership and discussing the behind-the-scenes issues APA volunteers fight every day – from hotel issues and specific discipline disputes to a broader culture problem, accountability, and the road ahead.

This is part of an effort to ensure a unified understanding of the environment we operate in, who represents you, and how those individuals amplify your voice at the table. We will also begin publishing interviews with members of APA’s leadership through our “Positive Rate” podcast.

The latest episode of “Positive Rate” features APA President CA Nick Silva, who served as a member of our Economic & Financial Analysis team during the last contract effort and has used those experiences to help shape APA based on the lessons learned leading up to and after the 2023 CBA ratification. Listen to the episode to learn more about CA Silva, including how he advocates for the pilots of American Airlines and how he is working to Raise the Standard.