Allegiant pilots vote to approve strike over scheduling

PHOENIX — Pilots with budget carrier Allegiant Air, which operates a base at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport, have voted to OK a strike, according to Monday reports.

The Las Vegas Review Journal said more then 90 percent of the pilots in Teamsters Local 1224 said they would walk out “should it become necessary,” citing scheduling issues.

“We have not been told of any anticipated disruptions,” Mesa Gateway spokesman Ryan Smith said in an email.

“In the past, these issues have been resolved without reaching that level so hopefully this case will be the same.”

Pilots have said the airline’s new scheduling system ignored seniority, causing aviators with more time with the company to work “must-fly” days. On those days, pilots at a particular base airport have to work the same as pilots with less time with Allegiant.

“We remain committed to, and are actively working towards the completion of implementing the scheduling system, working with the vendor selected by (the union),” airlines spokeswoman Hilarie Grey said in a statement.

“Under the Railway Labor Act, as well as the terms of the current collective bargaining agreement, this issue would not constitute grounds for a legal work stoppage.”

The airline and pilots reached agreement to draw up deal for a new system in 2016, the Tampa Bay Times reported, but there was no other movement forward.

Allegiant flies to over 30 destinations out of Gateway year-round and operates eight seasonal routes.

The airline came under scrutiny in April, after TV newsmagazine “60 Minutes” aired a piece on the carrier’s safety issues, mostly related to its aging fleet.

Follow @KTAR923