FedEx pilots ratify labor deal

FedEx pilots ratify labor deal    After two years negotiating, FedEx Express’ pilots have ratified a new four-year labor contract after voting in favor of the agreement presented in September, the Memphis, Tenn.-based company and the Air Line Pilots Association International said in a joint statement.
   The contract, effective Oct. 30, was approved by 94.6 percent of eligible pilots with a 93.7 percent turnout.
   Federal mediators have guided the talks since last October after negotiations that began in 2004 stalled.
   “FedEx Express and ALPA have worked tirelessly over the last two years to reach what we all believe is a competitive and mutually beneficial contract,” said David J. Bronczek, president and chief executive officer of FedEx Express.
   “The improvements in this contract were possible because of the strength and support of our members throughout the negotiating process. We congratulate our pilots and FedEx for this outstanding achievement,” said Capt. David Webb, chairman of the FedEx unit of ALPA.