Western Global
A Western Global B-747 at Southwest Florida International Airport. Photo: Capt. Brien Schouten (Western Global)
At A Glance
Pilots joined ALPA: 2021
Number of pilots/flightcrew members: 147
Pilot bases: Home-based
Hubs/key markets: Fort Myers and Miami, Fla.; Anchorage, Alaska; Frankfurt, Germany; Hong Kong; and Incheon, South Korea
Headquarters: Estero, Fla.
Operations: Western Global is a worldwide freight carrier that serves more than 400 airports in 135 countries. It’s one of nine airlines that flies for the U.S. Department of Defense Transportation Command’s “Patriot” Team.
Fleet: 17 MD-11Fs and 4 B-747-400Fs
In 2021, Western Global Airlines pilots joined ALPA, seeking the resources and benefits of belonging to the world’s largest pilot union. With the Association’s support, the pilot group sought a first collective bargaining agreement that reflects competitive and fair wages, reasonable work rules, and work-life balance.
Negotiations began in 2022, with the pilots adopting a proactive and collaborative approach. ALPA presented comprehensive proposals to expedite negotiations and secure a mutually beneficial agreement, enhancing company competitiveness and long-term stability.
However, lengthy upper management reviews of standard proposals and a lack of authority given to management representatives tasked with negotiations have impeded the parties’ ability to engage in meaningful negotiations and hindered progress. On June 20, 2024, the Association expressed concerns regarding management’s negotiation tactics, including the lack of authority at the table, regressions, and delays. ALPA notified management of its intent to file for mediation, which resulted in a joint mediation application with the National Mediation Board. The parties began mediation on October 1.
The pilots continue to urge management to prioritize negotiations. Competitive compensation, predictable scheduling, and a secure retirement plan are essential to attract and retain qualified aviators. Without a fair contract, the carrier risks losing skilled pilots and jeopardizing its future.
Western Global filed for bankruptcy in 2023, downsizing its fleet and pilot roster due to market conditions. The carrier successfully restructured in 2024, slashing debt and securing new capital. The company has since increased its pilot roster from 87 to 147, with new-hire classes held every three months. However, the carrier still hasn’t focused on pilot retention.
