Angry Airline Employees

If you have been paying attention to industry news lately, you probably noticed quite a few topics on the growing anger amongst airline employees. US Airways CEO Doug Parker says the labor issue is worsening across the industry. United Airlines CEO Glen Tilton tried to defend his estimated $40 million compensation package at a recent shareholder meeting. Northwest Airlines announcement that it would give outgoing chairman Gary Wilson a $2 million going away present led to immediate court objections from the airlines unions, whose members endured sharp pay cuts and job reductions during Northwest's bankruptcy reorganization. While Tilton defended his compensation package, he also said more must be done to cut costs to remain competitive. United continues job cuts and restructuring to trim expenses. But shouldn't sacrifice be mutual? How can the CEOs of these companies continue to preach the importance of saving money through concessions, job cuts and offshoring work while they walk around with big fat wallets in their back pockets? If leading a company out of bankruptcy means you deserve a multi-million dollar pay package, shouldn't the employees who bore the pain also get something back for their sacrifices? If employee compensation is only a priority when an airline needs to cut costs, and no consideration is given during times of profitability, the airlines are in for a turbulent trip in regards to employee relations in the near future. Fasten your seat belts. It's going to be a bumpy ride! Thanks for reading, Joe Escobar