Delta pilots warn of flight delays, cancellations this summer. The carrier's ALPA chapter is negotiating a new contract. Thursday, July 02, 2026 at 02:35 PM ET Edited By: Key takeaways: Delta pilots represented by the Air Line Pilots Association have launched a public website warning customers of likely delays and cancellations this summer. The website, deltapilotscare.com, contains a message from the pilots to travelers stressing that they "will continue to prioritize safety" while also calling attention to potential scheduling and operational challenges tied to thunderstorms, staffing shortages, and maintenance work. "We have been working on our days off in record numbers to help you get to your destination," the statement reads. "We empathize and share in your frustration over the delays, cancellations, and disrupted travel plans you experienced. We agree; it is unacceptable." The website includes a long list of travel recommendations, including booking the first flight of the day, using the Fly Delta app, and enrolling in programs such as TSA PreCheck, CLEAR, or Global Entry to expedite security screenings and customs. A video near the top of the page advises passengers of their rights if their flight is delayed or cancelled. ALPA's Delta Master Executive Council announced the website's debut this week as the chapter enters negotiations for a new contract with the airline. The tactic is not uncommon in the industry - other work groups at other airlines have used standalone temporary websites to communicate with the public during contract discussions and, on occasion, voice direct criticisms of their employer. It is also possible that the pilots are looking to preempt and redirect customer frustration toward Delta if reliability falters during the summer travel period. "Delta has built a reputation on being a premium brand," Eric Criswell, chairman of the Delta MEC, said in a news release. "The Delta pilots want to do our part to ensure our passengers continue to receive the service they've come to expect when flying on Delta. Our customers deserve a reliable airline, and pilots do, too." A contract opener released in April shows which areas the MEC will prioritize in negotiations, specifically "industry-leading" pay, enhanced scope protections, higher company contributions to retirement, and additional days eligible for holiday pay. The pilots also listed a number of desired quality of life improvements, such as improved deadhead provisions, higher-quality layover hotels, and increased schedule flexibility. The pilots' contract becomes amendable at the end of the year. The MEC said deltapilotscare.com will be updated throughout the summer with additional tips and guidance. Zach Vasile is a writer and editor covering news in all aspects of commercial aviation. He has reported for and contributed to the Manchester Journal Inquirer, the Hartford Business Journal, the Charlotte Observer, and the Washington Examiner, with his area of focus being the intersection of business and government policy.

FedEx reaches tentative agreement with pilots. April 8, 2026 03:22 PM Federal Express Corporation and the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) have reached a tentative agreement that, if ratified, will provide its 5,000+ FedEx pilots with an industry-leading collective bargaining agreement. FedEx would like to thank both negotiating committees as well as the National Mediation Board and its professional mediators, whose assistance was invaluable. "This tentative agreement reflects our commitment to our valued crew members and to our growth strategy for the airline and the business as a whole," said Richard W. Smith, chief operating officer, International & chief executive officer, Airline. "It's a win-win for our pilots, for FedEx, and for our customers around the world."