United to Slow Pilot Hiring, Blames Boeing Delivery Delays

The airline says it will pause pilot new hire classes in May and June.

Ryan Ewing

Monday, March 11, 2024 at 01:39 PM ET

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A United 737-800 in San Francisco (Photo: AirlineGeeks | Ben Suskind)

Key Takeaways:

United Airlines is temporarily pausing pilot hiring in May and June, citing significant aircraft delivery delays and manufacturing issues from Boeing.
The airline expects to receive 21 fewer 737 Max aircraft than planned and has removed the 737 Max 10 from its fleet plan due to certification delays.
While United still aims for growth, these Boeing-related setbacks mean it won't expand as rapidly as initially forecast for 2024.
United's decision follows a broader industry trend, with other major U.S. carriers like Delta, Southwest, and Spirit Airlines also scaling back or halting pilot hiring.

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United Airlines is the latest U.S. carrier to slow pilot hiring this year. According to a CNBC report, the Chicago-based carrier will pause new hire classes in May and June, citing delivery delays at Boeing.

The airline expects to receive 21 fewer 737 Max aircraft this year than its original forecast. Manufacturing delays continue to plague Boeing following January’s door plug incident on an Alaska 737 Max 9.