Pilots’ Union Frets Over Retention Bonuses From Bankrupt Airline

Bankrupt cargo carrier Western Global Airlines Inc.'s request to pay $30,000 per pilot in retention bonuses is less than what pilots can earn elsewhere and could interfere with collective bargaining negotiations, the Air Line Pilots Association said.

The union, which has represented Western Global pilots in contract negotiations since 2021, told the US Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware on Friday that it won’t formally oppose the company’s retention payment proposal but believes the move is “ill-advised” as the two sides continue to bargain over an initial contract.

Western Global bypassed the union when it asked the court for ...