Forbesยท2025-08-15 14:15Core Viewpoint - American Airlines is seeking to expand its operations on the West Coast and in the Pacific through a codeshare agreement with Alaska Airlines, but this plan faces opposition from its pilots due to contract violations [2][3]. Group 1: Codeshare Agreements - American Airlines plans to codeshare with Alaska Airlines on new European routes and potentially on trans-Pacific routes, but will not allow its pilots to operate these flights, which violates the pilots' contract scope clause [3][4]. - Codeshare agreements allow airlines to sell tickets on another airline's flights and include those tickets on their booking platforms, but the scope clause in pilot contracts restricts the flying to be done by union members [4]. Group 2: Pilot Contract and Grievances - The scope clause in the contract between American Airlines and the Allied Pilots Association (APA) permits domestic codeshares with Alaska Airlines but prohibits international codeshares [4][11]. - The APA president has filed grievances regarding the codeshare plans, with an arbitrator set to hear the case concerning the Alaska codeshare [12]. Group 3: Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines Merger - Alaska Airlines merged with Hawaiian Airlines in a $1.9 billion deal, acquiring five Boeing 787 jets, which are the first widebody aircraft in Alaska's fleet [5]. - Alaska Airlines plans to begin 787 flights to London and Reykjavik in spring 2026, further expanding its international route offerings [5]. Group 4: Competitive Landscape - American Airlines has faced challenges in establishing transpacific routes, putting it at a disadvantage compared to competitors like Delta and United [7]. - The alliance between American Airlines and Japan Air Lines has antitrust immunity, allowing coordination on fares and schedules, which is crucial for American's competitive strategy [8].