CommutAir announced that it has reached an agreement with United Airlines to significantly increase the number of airplanes flown under the United Express brand by adding Embraer E145 jet operations to the company’s existing fleet of Bombardier turbo-prop aircraft. The agreement is subject to government approval.
Also pursuant to this agreement, CommutAir will implement a “Career Path Program” (CPP) for participating pilots. The program offers pilots the option to transition from CommutAir to United after certain requirements are met, including various service, performance record and accumulated flight hours requirements.
Pursuant to the currently anticipated fleet plan, the first Embraer E145 aircraft is expected to enter service in April 2016, and the fleet size and routes flown will grow through the addition of 40 Embraer E145 aircraft. Employee recruiting and FAA processes are already underway.
“This is a wonderful and attractive opportunity for CommutAir” said John Sullivan, Chairman of CommutAir. “In conjunction with this exciting growth plan, we will be implementing a program that offers a clear career path option to participating pilots. I appreciate working with United in offering more opportunities for our pilots and all of our employees,” he added.
CommutAir’s adoption of the CPP will be a special feature of the United Express agreement.
Will enable qualified pilot applicants to opt into the CPP at the time of joining CommutAir and then seamlessly move to United after the applicable requirements are met.
CommutAir’s planned growth will provide opportunities for promotions to Captain at CommutAir.
