Unions' deal for United

THE THREE biggest unions in United Airlines, the second-largest US carrier, have proposed that its employees take a substantial shareholding in the airline in return for agreeing to staff cost savings, writes Michael Harrison.

Talks with management are expected to begin soon on the proposal, which is being viewed as a means of keeping United a strong and viable carrier in the face of the turmoil faced by the US airline industry.

In a statement yesterday the United Airlines Union Coalition, representing pilots, flight attendants and engineers, said it put forward a new 'competitive action plan' designed to help the airline become stronger financially in exchange for granting its employees 'a substantial equity stake'.

United said it would not be in a position to respond formally until it had received and evaluated the coalition's proposals. However, the approach is being taken seriously by United's management, led by its chairman, Stephen Wolf.