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FedEx Pilots Ratify Four-Year Contract After Five Years of Negotiations

Unionized pilots at FedEx have approved a new collective bargaining agreement with 83% voting in favor, ending protracted labor talks that stretched over five years. The four-year contract takes effect June 29 and can be reopened in December 2030. Nearly 5,000 FedEx pilots will receive a 40% increase in hourly compensation along with retroactive pay—up to $150,000 for captains and $102,500 for first officers—to cover wages delayed during negotiations. Beginning in 2028, pilots will receive 3% annual raises. The agreement covers compensation, retirement, scheduling, work rules and job protections. The ratification margin reflects lingering internal union divisions. Members rejected a 30% pay increase proposal in 2023 after disagreeing with leadership's negotiating strategy. The National Mediation Board facilitated years of discussions between the parties.