Negotiating Committee Update – July 14, 2025

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Fellow Pilots,

Mr. Fishburn’s endeavor to be Allegiant’s “least useful” and/or “most dishonest” employee continues and with great effect. The .28 cents on the dollar group is in no position to lecture this pilot group on “failure” nor “strategy”.

The Union did not “demand” that the company meet nor state that the company “has” to meet, per Mr. Fishburn’s latest dramatic fabrication. Union counsel notified the company on July 8th that the Union wanted to present a comprehensive proposal and offered to voluntarily meet with the company in advance of mediation to provide it. It would give the company ample time to ask clarifying questions and thoroughly review the proposal before bargaining.

Considering the limited, 3-hour mediation session, it was a prudent decision that would give the company time to review the details and perhaps make a counter-proposal before our upcoming mediation session. The latter was highly unlikely given our bargaining history, but we made the effort anyway. Given the company’s public statements, one would assume Mr. Fishburn et al., would welcome the opportunity to make the most of the extremely limited time available in mediation on July 28th. That was not the case.

Their tendency to try to “run out the clock” by presenting performative and often irrelevant questions and “concerns” to things they should already know is well-documented. The Union simply offered to meet in advance—hoping we could get the theater and other distractions out of the way early and focus the mediation session on substance. It seemed like a no-brainer. The company’s decision also seems like a no-brainer, albeit in a different context.

Despite their unwillingness to meet, the company shall receive the Union’s comprehensive proposal before the July 28th mediation date. The Union’s positions remain unchanged. Even with a comprehensive proposal, no pilot should be the least bit surprised when the company continues to waste our time during bargaining. We will keep you updated in that regard.

Stay informed. Stay safe.

In Unity,

Captain Joshua Allen
Negotiating Committee Chairman

Captain Jay Killen
Pilot Negotiator

Captain Brad Keller
Pilot Negotiator

Captain J.R. Lynch
NC Chief of Staff

Captain Jim Cole
Recording Analyst

2025 Q2 Newsletter – APA Local 2118

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Allegiant Pilots,

Welcome to the Q2 Committee Newsletter

Here’s a quick roundup of important updates from your Union committees. Thank you to every committee chair and volunteer who contributed this quarter. All committee updates can be found anytime on their respective pages at apa2118.org. If you or a fellow pilot need help accessing the website or Union Impact, please reach out to Josh Martin, Communications Specialist for APA Local 2118, at jmartin@apa2118.org.

Updates

  • BYLAWS
  • CIRP
  • Communications
  • FOQA
  • HIMS
  • Hotel
  • Jumpseat
  • Payroll
  • Professional Standards
  • Scheduling
  • Stewards
  • Strategic Preparedness Committee

Additional Updates

  • APA2118 Website & App – Improvements Underway
  • Want To Get Involved – Join a Committee
  • Withdrawal Card Request – Know Your Options

BYLAWS Committee Update

The bylaws committee has been adding further revisions to our draft and fine tuning some suggestions that were made by our members who participated in the zoom and the survey.

We are now up to our 14th revision and counting! Thank you to all those who take the time to participate in making this union their own! We have heard feedback for language in the bylaws addressing dues on bonuses, and are working to get something written in that is clear and agreeable, revision 15 here we come!

As soon as we have a solid draft ready and approved by international, we will send it out along with a feedback survey, and hopefully a ballot shortly thereafter. Please keep an eye out for the survey, your participation is key!

CIRP Committee Update

Life doesn’t stop at the flight deck. From stress and family challenges to major incidents, the CIRP/Peer2Peer team is here to support you — confidentially, compassionately, and as fellow pilots who understand. This quarter’s update introduces your peer team and how to connect before a crisis.

Visit CIRP Committee

Communications Committee Update

Captain Robert Skiles steps into the role of Communications Committee Chairman with a message of service, leadership, and accountability. Meet the team and learn how you can get involved.

Visit Communications Committee

FOQA Committee Update

Operational discipline is under the spotlight. This quarter’s FOQA insights dive into recent automation mishaps, configuration missteps, and growing concerns around stabilized approaches. A must-read reminder on staying sharp, accountable, and fully aware.

Visit FOQA Committee

HIMS Committee Update

The HIMS Committee continues to expand its impact, offering unwavering support to pilots and their families through trusted advocacy and proven recovery resources. Our collaborative efforts with the Company reflect a shared commitment to strengthening and safeguarding the HIMS Program. If you or someone close to you is facing challenges with substance use or alcoholism, please remember—you are not alone. Help is always available.

Visit HIMS Committee

Hotel Committee Update

Hotels aren’t just a place to sleep — they’re part of your safety net. This quarter’s Hotel Committee update outlines key wins, persistent issues, and what’s being done to improve your rest and recovery during layovers.

Visit Hotel Committee

Jumpseat Committee Update

Jumpseat access is a privilege — and a responsibility. With security incidents on the rise and recent policy questions surfacing, this update addresses identification checks, jumpseating while on leave, and who handles your non-rev issues.

Visit Jumpseat Committee

Payroll Committee Update

Payroll confusion? You’re not alone. This quarter we break down common JIRA misunderstandings, DTG rules, and the truth about ADD Days. If pay issues stress you out, this one’s for you.

Visit Payroll Committee

Professional Standards Committee Update

Professionalism matters — especially now. As contract negotiations heat up, it’s more important than ever to stay cool under pressure. The Professional Standards team shares a timely reminder about integrity, peer support, and reaching out before things boil over.

Visit Professional Standards Committee

Scheduling Committee Update

Your Scheduling Committee—currently staffed by just two dedicated SFB-based Captains—is working diligently to address concerns across the entire pilot group. To help them assist you more efficiently, please include your name, base, seat, employee number, and a phone number in any inquiry.

The Committee is also seeking additional volunteers to support the growing workload. If you’re interested in helping, now is a great time to get involved.

Visit Scheduling Committee

Union Stewards: Here to Support You

Your Union Steward Team remains your go-to resource for contractual questions, policy clarification, and disciplinary representation. As a reminder, be sure to keep your medical certificate current and uploaded, and always log aircraft discrepancies accurately. Staying proactive helps avoid preventable issues and ensures you remain protected.

Visit Stewards Committee

Strategic Preparedness Committee

Thank you to all the pilots who submitted questions—your input has been compiled into the Strike Preparation Handbook, now in its final stages. Your SPC base representatives will be informed, equipped, and ready to support you.

Despite our efforts, management refuses to provide a deal that values our contributions. Our patience has run out. In the coming days, we will release the Allegiant Pilots Strike Preparation Handbook, outlining key details should legal self-help become necessary.

Want to get involved or help support strike prep efforts? Reach out to SPC@apa2118.org.

Visit Strategic Preparedness Committee

Website & App Update – Improvements Underway

We’re actively working to improve the APA Local 2118 website and mobile app. After experiencing persistent support issues and a period of website downtime, we’ve made the decision to transition development to Saritasa—a proven technology solutions company that prioritizes intention, value, and trust. With over 1,700 successful projects completed, they bring the expertise and professionalism this project requires. We now have a dedicated project manager, weekly status meetings, and clear development timelines in place.

Pilots will notice the difference—our goal is to deliver a more reliable, user-friendly platform that meets your needs. This transition also includes regaining full ownership and control of our digital infrastructure. We’re currently setting up official Apple and Google developer accounts so the mobile app will be managed directly under APA Local 2118. These long-overdue improvements are underway, and we appreciate your continued patience and support as we work to deliver the digital experience our members deserve.

Want To Get Involved? – Join a Committee!

Our Union’s strength is built on the dedication of volunteers. If you’re passionate about protecting and improving the lives of your fellow pilots, we’d love to have you on board. Whether it’s communications, safety, scheduling, or any of our other committees — there’s a place for you. The work is important, often rewarding, and helps keep our pilot group informed, unified, and prepared. Reach out today and see where you can make a difference.

Committee Volunteer Signup

Withdrawal Card Request – Know Your Options

If you’re taking a Leave of Absence (LOA, PLOA, FMLA, CLOA, Furlough, or Medical), you’re responsible for notifying the Local of your status change.

You can either:

  • Remain an active member by continuing minimum dues payments, OR
  • Request a withdrawal card (inactive status), which pauses dues and suspends member privileges while you’re out.

To request a withdrawal card or learn more about your options, click below to complete the form:

Withdrawal Card Request Form

Thank you again to everyone who contributed to this quarter’s newsletter. Your input helps ensure our members stay informed.

If your committee did not have a chance to submit an update for this edition, it’s not too late—please send it to Josh Martin, Communications Specialist for APA Local 2118. We’ll make sure it’s added to your committee’s page and shared with the pilots. We’re committed to building a stronger, more unified pilot group through consistent communication.

Unity is Our Strength,
APA Teamsters Local 2118

2025 Q2 Communications Committee Update

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Communications Committee Update

Fellow Pilots,

My name is Captain Robert Skiles, currently based in VPS. This September will mark ten years with Allegiant, and I’m proud to share that I’ve recently stepped into the role of Communications Committee Chairman. It’s a privilege to serve in this capacity, and I’m committed to representing our pilots as we continue pushing for the contract we’ve earned and deserve.

I’ve chosen to make Allegiant my long-term home, and with that comes a responsibility I take seriously: to leave this airline better than I found it.

I’m also pleased to welcome Captain Kevin Winter to the Communications Committee. I’m grateful for his willingness to step forward and contribute his time and talent to this important work. His involvement strengthens our efforts, and I look forward to the positive impact he’ll bring.

There’s still a great deal of work ahead. We need leaders—those with the courage and commitment to step into the arena and advocate for what’s right. If you’re ready to be part of that fight, I encourage you to reach out.

In Solidarity,
Captain Robert Skiles
Communications Committee

Trustee Update – July 11, 2025

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Allegiant Pilots,

It has been a busy two weeks, as you know. The Negotiating committee has been finalizing a comprehensive proposal, of which they will provide a thorough communication; the Bylaws are in near complete form – we have heard back that the General Secretary’s Treasurer’s office that Captain Roger’s and Captain Leach’s last draft (#14) is on target and compliant.

I have also received many comments regarding the “Interim Agreement” MOU payout, with most in one of three categories:

  • Why now?
  • Will it continue if paid out to date?
  • Will the Local deduct dues from the payment?

As we have observed the increase in the payout amount, and as stated in our communication, there is growing concern about Allegiant’s ability to fulfill its agreement. Our concerns were echoed by Bank of America analyst, Andrew Diadora in his Allegiant sell rating, where in part he stated:

This transaction, priced at $200 million, was significantly less than the estimated value of $236 million, which has negatively impacted the company’s financial outlook. Additionally, the proceeds from the sale are insufficient to cover the accrued pilot pay, which is expected to reach approximately $240 million by the end of 2025.

The decision was made to request a payout bluntly. We have heard reports from members that senior managers continue to state that Allegiant would pay, if only the union would let them. As of this writing, we do not have a response from Mr. Anderson.

The amendment was written to end the “Interim Agreement” completely.

As I have previously written, the Local Union will not collect 1.56% of the amount paid to the pilots. (On a payout of $240 million, that would be $3.7 million). There would have been no Per Capita tax paid to the International, as per the IBT Constitution. That is only collected on your Minimum Monthly Guarantee.

Member Webinar
July 15, 2025 – 3PM PST / 6PM EST
Register Here

 

Fraternally,

Greg Unterseher
Trustee, APA Teamsters Local 2118

2025 Q2 Professional Standards Committee Update

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Update from the Professional Standards Committee

As we move forward with mediated negotiations with the company, it is understandable that, at times, tensions in and around work may run high. As Professional Aviators however, it is imperative we maintain our composure and commitment to our profession.

We simply cannot allow our personal feelings to demonstrate while upholding the confidence of both our peers and our flying public. If you are feeling as though personal feelings may be affecting you at work, we encourage you to reach out to your Professional Standards Committee for help.

It is our time to show our worth to both ourselves and the company. Let us remain steadfast in our commitment to be our best.

Feel free to reach out at any time with questions or concerns.

In Solidarity,
Stephen Wheeler
Professional Standards Committee

2025 Q2 FOQA Committee Update

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Operational Vigilance: A Mid-Summer Safety Reminder

As we reach the peak of our operational calendar, it’s more important than ever to remain vigilant and committed to the fundamentals of safe flight operations. The summer months bring increased flight volume, tighter schedules, and higher stress levels, all of which can contribute to complacency. But complacency is not just a personal risk; it’s a collective threat. As crewmembers, we must hold ourselves and each other accountable to ensure we are following procedures precisely and consistently. The safety of our passengers, our aircraft, and our fellow crew depends on it.

Recent Event Summaries & Safety Lessons

Event 1: A crew initiated a go-around at just 200 feet AGL while the aircraft was still in a clean configuration. Unaware that the flight guidance system would not provide go-around cues in this state, the crew continued descending. It wasn’t until they manually disconnected the autopilot that they began to recover. During the go-around maneuver, the crew oversped the flaps. This incident underscores the critical importance of configuration awareness and understanding how automation behaves under different conditions.

Event 2: A crew called for TOGA power to execute a go-around but failed to realize that the autopilot was disengaged. Despite applying full thrust, the aircraft continued to descend because no one was actively flying it. The crew’s lack of awareness regarding the automation state nearly resulted in a terrain conflict. This serves as a stark reminder that automation is not a substitute for vigilance. We must always verify the aircraft’s response and be prepared to take manual control when needed.

Event 3: A crew climbed to FL400, above the aircraft’s certified service ceiling. This exceedance was caught by dispatch. While the aircraft remained controllable, operating beyond certified limits introduces unnecessary risk and could have serious consequences. Aircraft limitations are not suggestions; they are hard boundaries that exist to protect us and the integrity of the operation.

Exceedance Awareness & Unreported Incidents

We receive multiple flights daily that are having flap and gear speed limitations exceeded and never reported or appropriately logged in with maintenance. The Airbus will not notify a pilot of an exceedance until well beyond the limitation, and the Boeing makes no alerts at all. It is the responsibility of the crew to operate the aircraft within limitations at all times.

Stabilized Approaches – What “Stable” Actually Means

Stabilized approaches are becoming a major concern. Currently, in VFR conditions, we are to be stabilized by 500 AGL. This means:

  • Fully configured
  • At or very near approach speed
  • Engines spooled
  • Vertical and lateral path on track
  • Landing checklist complete

From this point, small corrections to hold each parameter are acceptable. However, crossing 500 AGL at 40 over reference speed but correcting is not a minor adjustment. Adding the landing flap at 200 AGL is not stable. As professionals, you should be going around for another attempt.

It’s Time to Recommit

These events are not isolated anomalies. They are symptoms of a broader issue: a gradual erosion of procedural discipline and crew coordination.

As professionals, we must recommit to the basics. Thorough briefings, clear communication, and strict adherence to procedures are non-negotiable. We must challenge and support one another in the cockpit. If something doesn’t look or feel right, speak up. Ask questions. Verify. Cross-check. These are the habits that keep us safe.

Final Thoughts

Let’s also remember that our job doesn’t get easier just because we’ve done it a thousand times. In fact, that’s when it becomes most dangerous—when routine dulls our edge. We must fight that drift. Stay sharp. Stay engaged. And above all, stay accountable.

We are only as strong as our weakest link. Let’s not allow these mistakes to repeat themselves. Hold yourself accountable. Hold your fellow crewmembers accountable. That’s how we protect each other, and the passengers who trust us with their lives.

In Solidarity,
Shawn Rials
FOQA Committee

2025 Q2 Payroll Committee Update

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Payroll Committee Update – Midyear 2025

As we reach the halfway point of the year, we understand that our pay being correct is very stressful and demanding on the pilot outside of the flight deck duties. We want to continue the education and help all that reach out as much as we can.

This Quarter we want to focus on 3 key points:

1. Confusing JIRA Responses

We know that sometimes you file a JIRA thinking your pay is wrong and get a response that leaves you feeling more confused and disappointed. If you feel they are incorrect, or you just want a fellow pilot to help explain it, please forward your JIRA to us at payroll@apa2118.org.

2. DTG (Drop to Guarantee)

When you drop a trip or trade it to another pilot with no sick time used to cover the time lost, any trip picked up out of Open Time or a VFN will consolidate that time lost first before being ABG (Above Guarantee) pay.

Example:
You drop a 4 PCH trip using DTO in Merlot and you opt not to use Sick Bank. Then you get awarded a 6 PCH VFN. You will be paid as such: 4 PCH + 2 ABG = 6 VFN.
The 4 PCH you dropped needs to be fulfilled before the ABG is counted.

3. ADD Days (Composite Lines Only)

These are only on Composite Lines. They hold no monetary value—the 4 PCH listed is only used to determine how many you need to have on your schedule to satisfy the line value for the month.

  • i) Open Time will not count towards ABG if you have ADD Days remaining in your month. Each 4 PCH picked up will remove 1 ADD Day.
  • ii) Trip Trades between pilots will count towards ABG and will not remove an ADD Day. Non-Premium may be allocated in this trade if the pilot you are taking the trip from is below 81 PCH. It is the pilot’s responsibility to be aware of this.
  • iii) VFN’s will count towards ABG and will not remove ADD Days. VFN’s may be picked up on ADD Days and will still be paid ABG.

We have added a Forum chat that will help open dialogue with how you would like to be educated moving forward. Please help us by participating.

In Solidarity,
Gregory Harris, Brandon Wood
Payroll Committee

2025 Q2 CIRP Committee Update

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Accidents, Incidents, Distractions… Oh My!

As part of the APA 2118 Safety Department, the Critical Incident Response Program (CIRP)/Peer2Peer team is here to provide confidential, peer-based support for pilots dealing with challenging life or work events—whether they happen in the flight deck or beyond.

Life happens. Divorce, separation, loss, family issues, health concerns, operational incidents, or just the overwhelming pressures of daily life—whatever the burden, big or small, recent or lingering—we may be able to help.

We’re Pilots, Just Like You

Sometimes it helps just to talk with someone who understands the unique demands of our profession. We’re fellow pilots with diverse backgrounds, and we’ve all faced situations that affected our family lives, health, and job performance. The coping tools we’ve developed might benefit you, too.

Don’t wait for someone else to notice you’re struggling. If you feel like something’s weighing on you, chances are—it is. And that means you could benefit from a peer connection. With support and understanding, stress reactions often pass more quickly.

Confidential, Compassionate, and Trained

Our peer team is trained in Go Team protocols and CIRP-specific listening skills—not as clinicians, but as trained peers, well-equipped to support colleagues in a high-stakes profession. Every interaction is completely confidential and anonymous.

Meet Your Peer2Peer Team

We’re proud of the life experience and professional insight our volunteers bring. Here are just a few of us:

  • Liana Hart (AVL-A320CA): 27 years in the airline industry, 22 in CIRP, married to a retired ATC, mother of three grown children, and former company safety department member.
  • Christian Aracena (SFB-737FO): Army veteran, father, aviation mental health advocate, and human factors student.
  • Andrew Black (PIE-737FO): Certified personal trainer with a focus on injury prevention, former CFI and Part 135 pilot, background in behavioral health and family support.
  • Gerry Merk (CVG-A320CA): Marine Corps veteran, father of five, with nine years in the regionals and nine years at Allegiant.
  • Lauren Scott (LAS-A320FO): Pastor/counselor’s wife, homeschooling mom of three, business owner, corporate pilot, and GA DPE.
  • Tim “Ruitan” Sun (SFB-737FO): First-time 121 pilot. Having lived in China, Japan and US, he is fluent in Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese, and English with a background in flight safety and MRO.

Thinking About Joining Us?

We’re always looking for more volunteers to help reflect the diversity of our pilot group. If you’re someone who cares deeply about your fellow pilots and has an interest in supporting others, let’s talk.

Don’t Wait for a Crisis

While we absolutely want to speak with crews involved in incidents or accidents, we’re just as eager to talk before things escalate to a safety concern. Stress and distraction don’t wait until your next day off—neither should you.

Reach out to any of us. In person, on the line, or by phone—we’re here when you need us.

In Solidarity,
Liana Hart
Chair, Peer2Peer / CIRP Committee

2025 Q2 Hotel Committee Update

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Rental Cars

  • No Cars on Multi-Day Trips: Trips like 3-, 4-, or 5-day pairings in bases such as FLL are not classified as TDY or charters. Per current contract language, rental cars are not provided for these pairings.
  • Hertz Becomes Primary Vendor: While Enterprise was the preferred provider, Hertz is becoming the new default rental agency due to updated agreements. Other vendors may still appear depending on availability.
  • Fuel Return Policy: Travel confirmed that rental cars may be returned at any fuel level—no need to refuel.

Uber & Lyft

  • Dangerous or substandard drivers can be banned from the corporate account. If you feel unsafe, end the ride and notify Crew Travel with the ride date.
  • Tipping is automatically included in the fare under the corporate contract—no need to tip in cash.

MX Flight Transport – San Jose

  • A recent issue with transport following an MX flight in San Jose was a one-off miscommunication.
  • Report any similar delays in SJC to the Hotel Committee for investigation.

Deadhead Travel on Other Airlines

  • Ticket Optimization: The company’s software prioritizes cost savings, which may sometimes favor non-stop flights.
  • “Basic Economy” Bookings: A few pilots received these limited-class tickets in error. Travel confirms this is not standard procedure. Contact the committee if you receive such a ticket.
  • Southwest A-List Status Match:
    • Coming soon: crews can match to A-List status for a trial period.
    • After 6 flights (personal or company-booked), status will continue for the year. Watch for a formal email from Travel.
  • DEV Code for DH Deviations:
    • Notify CS if you deviate from scheduled DH so they can apply “DEV” and ensure proper pay and ticket cancellation.

Hotel Updates

  • PUJ Overnights: Despite efforts, we’ll continue staying at Four Points. Breakfast is included—if charged, remind hotel staff.
  • BWI Improvements: New hotel inspections were completed in the Fells Point/Inner Harbor area. Travel will conduct its own in August.
  • DCA Charters: Due to client demand, inspections are scheduled for DCA-area hotels in preparation for future charter use.
  • Substandard Hotels:
    • Crews have encountered unsafe or unsanitary hotels.
    • The company prioritizes Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, and IHG.
    • If you’re placed in a problematic hotel, contact Crew Services immediately to be rebooked.

Upcoming System Upgrade

  • The company is working to replace CTM with a new travel booking platform, expected this fall.
  • New features will include:
    • Auto-application of loyalty numbers
    • Stored travel preferences
    • Enhanced crew experience
  • A full rollout guide will be shared once the system goes live.

Need Help? The Hotel Committee is here to assist with any travel- or hotel-related issues. Don’t hesitate to reach out.

In Solidarity,
Matt Timpany
Chair, AAY Hotel Committee

2025 Q2 Jumpseat Committee Update

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From the Jumpseat Committee:

The Jumpseat Committee was recently notified that another airline had an attempted jumpseat breach by someone in a pilot uniform with falsified company credentials. The person made it as far as the flight deck, where the Captain denied the person when the badge didn’t look correct and part of the required ID was missing.

In light of this and the recent case in the news of the imposter FA jumpseating, we are reminding all pilots to check for all required ID/documents for jumpseaters and to double check that everything looks correct concerning jumpseaters attempting to ride on your airplane.

Jumpseating While on Leave

We have recently received several questions about jumpseating while on leave. As a reminder, while you are out on leave (MIL, FMLA, etc) you will not be able to use your Jumpseat benefits, as it is prohibited by Federal FSIMS.

Non-Rev Questions

Additionally, all non-rev questions and issues must be directed to the Company Pass Travel Department, as they are the ones that handle everything related to non-rev.

In Solidarity,
Paul Sadiq
Jumpseat Committee