FedEx Pilots Head to Vote on 40% Pay Raise Contract

Key Details FedEx pilots will vote on a tentative five-year contract starting May 12, with balloting closing June 9. The Air Line Pilots Association's union board endorsed the deal and recommended ratification to its 5,000 members. If approved, the agreement becomes effective June 29. What Pilots Get The contract delivers a 40% hourly pay increase plus substantial back pay - up to $150,000 for captains and $102,500 for first officers. Starting in 2028, pilots will receive guaranteed 3% annual raises. The agreement also covers vacation time, scheduling, hours of service rules, medical standards, and flight privileges. Why It Matters This deal ends five years of difficult negotiations that required National Mediation Board intervention. Pilots rejected an earlier 2023 proposal, making union support for this version significant. The contract represents a major win for aviation labor and reflects FedEx's need to retain experienced flight crews in a competitive market. Next Steps Pilots should carefully review all contract terms before voting. The comprehensive agreement touches numerous working conditions beyond compensation. Union leadership's positive recommendation signals confidence in the proposal's fairness.