Delta Pilots Approve Contract for Significant Pay Increase and Set Industry Precedent
The Air Line Pilots Association announced that Delta pilots have overwhelmingly approved a new contract that will see their pay rise by an impressive 34% over the next four years. This deal is expected to set a precedent for union pilots at other major airlines, with many already anticipating similar agreements in the near future.
The ratification of the new contract follows several months of picketing by pilots last summer and six months after Delta pilots voted to authorize a Strike. With 78% of Delta pilots who voted in favor of the contract, the Air Line Pilots Association is celebrating what they see as a major victory for the aviation industry.
According to the union, the Delta deal will lead to a cumulative $7 billion in pay raises for pilots. While major airlines such as Delta say they have enough pilots, smaller airlines are facing a shortage of pilots as their ranks are recruited by larger carriers. This shortage has given unions leverage to bargain for richer pay increases for their members.
The contract, which takes effect on March 2, 2023, will run through 2026 and can be amended in accordance with federal law. John Laughter, Delta's chief of operations, expressed his satisfaction with the new contract, stating that it "recognizes our pilots' contributions to Delta." He went on to say that the airline was committed to keeping Delta as a top destination for aviation employees, and that the new deal was an important step in that direction.
This industry-leading contract is a direct result of the unity and resolve of Delta pilots, according to Darren Hartmann, a pilot and union official. As aviation enthusiasts and frequent fliers alike eagerly await news of similar contracts at other major airlines, the Delta deal is being hailed as a sign of positive change in the aviation industry. If you're considering a career as a pilot or are simply interested in the latest news from the world of aviation, be sure to stay tuned for more updates from the Air Line Pilots Association and other industry leaders.
Further Delay in Implementation of ETIAS for U.S. Travelers Due to EU Biometric Entry/Exit System Development
There has been a further delay in the implementation of the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) due to delays in the development of the European Union's new biometric Entry/Exit System (EES). It has been pushed back from November 2023 to an unspecified date in 2024. Once in place, U.S. travelers will be required to apply online for an ETIAS at a cost of €7, which will be valid for three years. This system will be similar to the ESTA visa waiver scheme required for entry into the United States. The EES will also be implemented to improve security measures and streamline passport controls by enabling travelers to register their fingerprints and photo with their passport details upon entering the bloc from non-EU countries, including the UK.
Anitta Hipper, the European Commission's spokesperson for home affairs, migration, and internal security, said that ensuring the systems can talk to each other is vital. The new EES will end manual passport controls, speed queues and improve security measures. While ETIAS will help identify potential security risks among visa-free travelers before they reach EU borders. Hipper stated that the success of these systems depends on their interoperability. Hold-ups to EES are linked to delays in the central development of the system and member states' preparations at border crossing points.
The implementation of the EES is expected to be available by 2023, with full operation in 2024. The entry into operation of ETIAS can only happen five to six months after the entry into operation of EES. The timeline for the full entry into operation of EES will be revised accordingly and discussed at the management board of eu-Lisa and then the Justice and Home Affairs Council in June. The exact date for the ETIAS go-live will be communicated as soon as it is available.
The Commission is working closely with member states and eu-Lisa to minimize the impact of the delays and deliver interoperability under this mandate. The implementation of the EES will also be discussed in the upcoming Schengen Council in March. Despite the delay in the implementation of ETIAS, U.S. travelers can rest assured that the EU is working towards improving security measures and streamlining passport controls, ensuring safe and efficient travel for all. Stay tuned for updates on the ETIAS implementation date.
G Adventures Relaunches Tours in Peru Following Machu Picchu Reopening
Attention travel enthusiasts, G Adventures has officially relaunched tour operations in Peru following the reopening of Machu Picchu on February 15. The tour operator's decision to restart Tours on March 1 will support local communities and businesses in Peru that heavily rely on tourism for income. G Adventures has confirmed that most itineraries will remain unchanged. However, minor adjustments will be made to itineraries in some areas such as Puno, as the company closely monitors the situation. The reopening of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail is a promising step forward for the tourism industry in Peru after months of social and Political Unrest that led to its closure. Sarah Miginiac, G Adventures' general manager for Latin America, said that their team on the ground has been closely monitoring the situation and is working towards relaunching as quickly as possible, ensuring safety is a top priority.
G Adventures offers 17 itineraries in Peru, including visits to Machu Picchu, the Inca Trail, Lima, and other destinations. The relaunch of tour operations in Peru will undoubtedly bring economic benefits to local communities that rely heavily on tourism for their livelihoods. Peru's tourism industry was hit hard by the pandemic and suffered yet another blow during the recent unrest, making the reopening of Machu Picchu a much-needed boost. G Adventures' decision to restart operations in Peru will provide travelers with the opportunity to explore the country's rich culture, history, and natural beauty, while also supporting local businesses and communities.
For travelers planning to visit Peru, G Adventures offers a variety of Tours to suit different interests and preferences. The tours include trekking, cultural, and wildlife experiences, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in the local culture, cuisine, and landscapes. The company has implemented strict health and safety protocols to ensure the well-being of its guests and staff, including regular health screenings, sanitization measures, and physical distancing. By choosing to travel with G Adventures, travelers can have peace of mind knowing that their safety is a top priority.
The relaunch of G Adventures' tour operations in Peru is a promising sign for the country's tourism industry, which has been hit hard by the pandemic and social unrest. The reopening of Machu Picchu and the Inca Trail provides travelers with the opportunity to experience Peru's rich culture and natural beauty while supporting local communities and businesses. G Adventures' decision to restart operations in Peru reflects its commitment to responsible and sustainable tourism and provides travelers with a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Book your tour with G Adventures and explore the wonders of Peru today!