The leader of American Airlines’ pilot union has commended United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby for displaying the type of forward-thinking leadership that American desperately needs, following Kirby’s recent merger proposal between the two carriers.
Allied Pilots Association President Nick Silva sent a message to union members on Monday expressing that Kirby’s approach demonstrated “bold vision” and could prove “transformative” for travelers, local communities, and American Airlines flight crews.
Though Silva’s communication fell short of formally supporting a potential merger between United and American, he leveraged the discussion to voice ongoing concerns about American’s current management team. The airline’s leadership has faced mounting criticism from labor groups regarding the company’s disappointing financial results.
American Airlines has not yet provided a response to requests for comment regarding Silva’s statements.
United announced last month that it had abandoned efforts to pursue a combination with American after the competing airline refused to participate in discussions following United’s initial overture. American has maintained that joining forces with United would harm market competition and negatively impact consumers.
