United Airlines announced yesterday it will recall all of its furloughed pilots — nearly 600. The announcement bodes well for those who predict a pilot shortage, though experts stress that this does not necessarily signal growth for the troubled airline industry.
The recalls will fill expected staffing needs caused by retirements and new duty-time rules, according to a United release. Still, the move indicates that the supply of experienced pilots is paring down. United furloughed approximately 1,000 of its 12,000 pilots after the economic downturn of 2008.
