July 25, 2010 - Spirit Airlines pilots have ratified a new contract containing substantial pay raises and industry-leading work rules, following four years of talks and a June strike. Represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), 96 percent of the eligible Spirit pilots voted, with 74 percent approving the new agreement.  

“The ratification of this contract brings years of negotiations to the only conclusion this pilot group would accept—a fair contract that recognizes our value to this airline,” said Capt. Sean Creed, Spirit Master Executive Council chair.  

“With the solid backing of our international union, along with support from pilots and other union members across the country, Spirit pilots held firm during an arduous bargaining process and a five-day strike. This contract, and the strong vote that puts it into effect, is a direct result of this pilot group’s unwavering resolve.

Spirit pilots began bargaining for a new contract in October 2006. In July 2008, after many months of fruitless negotiations, the pilots applied to the National Mediation Board (NMB) for mediation under the Railway Labor Act. Despite the airline’s success and a profit margin measured in millions, Spirit’s management continued to demand a concessionary agreement that would strip the pilots of work rules and benefits, while also cementing their wages at the bottom of the industry pay scales.