AA accuses pilots of work slowdown

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FORT WORTH, Texas, Sept. 27 (UPI) -- A top American Airlines executive has accused pilots of using work slowdown tactics to disrupt smooth operations at the U.S. carrier.

In a letter to the Allied Pilots Association, Senior Vice President Denise Lynn said pilots were "delaying departures for unnecessary checks, increased and late-filed maintenance write-ups, increased block times due to slow taxiing and circuitous routings," all meant to harass the company while contract negotiations were under way.

The Fort Worth (Texas) Star-Telegram reported Thursday that Lynn threatened to take the pilots association to court to get an injunction to prevent work slowdown tactics.

"The conduct at issue is inflicting economic damage on the company; it is frustrating and alienating our customers; and it is driving unnecessary work and significant stress for other employees," the letter said.

The Star-Telegram said the union's board of directors was to meet Thursday to discuss returning to the negotiating table with the airline.

There was no word on whether the agenda of that meeting had changed due to Lynn's letter.

The airlines sent out layoffs notices to 11,000 union workers Sept. 19.