In response to delays in aircraft deliveries from Boeing, United Airlines has offered voluntary unpaid leave to its pilots throughout the month of May. This move comes as the airline faces an overstaffing issue due to reduced aircraft utilization caused by the delivery delays.

According to memos seen by Reuters from both the company and the pilot union, United Airlines confirmed the impact of the delivery delays and stated that "voluntary programs" were being implemented to address the excess staffing. However, specific details regarding the programs were not disclosed by the airline spokesperson.

The staff memo sent to pilots explained that they have the option to take unpaid time-off for the entire month of May or choose specific dates. Additionally, pilots can opt for a blank schedule, allowing them to pick and trade trips as desired. It was also highlighted in the memo that additional programs are expected in the summer and potentially extending into the fall.

United's pilot union addressed the broader impact of the delivery delays on various aircraft fleets, stating that while the issues primarily surround the 787 and 737 fleets, other fleets will also be affected. The selection process and duration of these additional programs remain unknown at this time.

This recent development follows United Airlines' announcement a few weeks ago of a pause in pilot hiring for May and June. The airline's decision reflects the wider challenges faced by the industry as a result of Boeing's safety crisis, which has led to airlines revising their aircraft delivery expectations and complicating efforts to accommodate the record travel demand.

United is not the only airline grappling with these challenges. Rival carrier Southwest Airlines, also a customer of Boeing, has similarly ceased pilot and flight attendant hiring. Boeing itself has been subjected to intense regulatory scrutiny following a mid-flight panel blowout incident involving an Alaska Airlines flight on January 5, prompting investigations into the company's safety measures and production processes.

In response to the ongoing issues, Boeing has undergone significant leadership changes. Last week, CEO Dave Calhoun announced his departure by the end of the year. Additionally, the former head of commercial airplanes, Stan Deal, retired immediately, while board chair Larry Kellner stepped down and was replaced by director Steve Mollenkopf.

United Airlines' CEO, Scott Kirby, has expressed his frustrations with Boeing and has already initiated talks with the planemaker's competitor, Airbus. United has also revised its delivery forecasts from Boeing, reducing the expected number of MAX 8 aircraft to be received in 2024 from 43 to 37. Furthermore, the airline anticipates receiving 15 fewer MAX 9s this year.

As the airline industry continues to navigate the challenges imposed by Boeing's delivery delays, United's decision to offer voluntary unpaid leave to its pilots is one of several measures being taken to mitigate the impacts.