Allegiant Air Pilots Stage Practice Picket in Des Moines to Advocate for Better Conditions

A group of approximately 30 pilots from Allegiant Air recently gathered near Des Moines International Airport in Iowa to make their voices heard regarding their concerns over job conditions at the airline. Their message was clear: they are prepared to strike if necessary in order to achieve improved working conditions. Represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT), Allegiant pilots have been engaged in ongoing discussions with the airline under the guidance of the National Mediation Board for the past two years.

According to a statement released by Teamsters Local 2118 on November 7, 2024, Allegiant pilots are feeling overworked and undervalued compared to their counterparts in the industry. The union has been pushing for fair pay raises, reasonable work schedules, and better overall working conditions for its members. Allegiant Air, despite boasting a record revenue of $2.5 billion in 2023, has allegedly been reluctant to meet these demands without extracting concessions from the pilots.

In a show of solidarity, on October 25, 2024, a resounding 97.4% of Allegiant Air pilots represented by Teamsters Local 2118 voted in favor of a nationwide strike should the airline fail to agree to favorable terms. With over 1,300 pilots across the country being represented by the union, the significance of their collective stance cannot be understated. Des Moines, a key operating base for Allegiant, is home to 42 of these pilots who are standing together in pursuit of better job conditions.

The resolve and determination demonstrated by these pilots serve as a testament to their commitment to securing a fair and equitable agreement with the airline. As negotiations continue between the pilots union and Allegiant Air, the spotlight remains on the importance of prioritizing the well-being and interests of the hardworking individuals who play a vital role in the airline industry.