Comair to reduce fleet, eliminate 200 pilot jobs

HEBRON, Ky. – Comair, the country’s second-largest regional airline, said it is reducing its fleet by 17 planes and eliminating 200 pilot jobs to save money as a pilots’ strike moves into its fourth week.

The airline’s 1,350 pilots went on strike March 26 and Comair, which also flies under the name of Delta Express and is owned by Delta Air Lines, canceled all flights.

Analysts estimate Comair’s losses at $2.5 million to $4 million a day since the strike began. Comair won’t comment on those estimates. The striking pilots are seeking higher pay, company-paid retirement, more rest between shifts and pay for nonflying hours when they are on duty.