Fedex pilots move closer to strike authorization vote

With contract negotiations stalled, leaders of the Fedex pilots union approved a resolution paving the way for a strike authorization vote.

The Fedex Express Master Executive Council of the Air Line Pilots Association, International last week unanimously approved the resolution. Negotiations between the pilots and Fedex have been ongoing since May 2021. Currently, no future talks are scheduled, according to the pilots union.

“The decision to move closer to a strike authorization vote is the result of nearly six months of federally mediated negotiations that has led to our disappointment with Fedex management’s actions at the bargaining table,” said Capt. Chris Norman, Fedex Master Executive Council chair.

A strike authorization vote is one of several legally required steps before the pilots could go on strike. The union would have to hurdle several other obstacles before that could happen.

Fedex this week said that the possibility of the vote "has no impact on our service as we continue delivering for our customers around the world."

"At this time, we are still in productive negotiations with our pilots under the supervision of a governmentappointed mediator."

Negotiations with that mediator began in November. At that time, eight of 12 sections of the contract had been agreed on by both parties.

The lengthy negotiations also led to Fedex pilots picketing along Democrat Road over the summer. The pilots are seeking adjustments to their pensions and other benefits.

“Fedex pilots are committed to reaching a deal with management, but we will not waver in our commitment to deliver a contract that rewards pilots for their sacrifices to build Fedex into the global leader it is today,” said Norman. “Although a strike authorization vote has not been called at this time, our customers and shareholders should be aware that the pilots may be headed in that direction shortly.”