United Airlines is asking its pilots to take time off in May due to delays in receiving new planes from Boeing.
The offer for pilots to take time off is voluntary, according to a report from the Associated Press.
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The big picture: United has experienced reduced flight hours due to the recent delays in Boeing deliveries.
- The airline does not expect to receive all the Boeing jetliners it ordered for this year and next year.
- The shortfall mainly includes Boeing 737 Max planes, including a new larger model that United planned to begin flying this year.
- The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not yet certified the Max 10, and FAA approval is likely to be further delayed.
- United is considering options to replace orders for the Max 10.
Driving the news: Federal regulators have started investigating production quality issues at Boeing since an incident involving an Alaska Airlines Max 9 in January.
- United CEO Scott Kirby has expressed concerns about problems at Boeing and has sought a meeting with Boeing directors.
- Boeing recently announced a leadership shakeup, with the CEO stepping down at the end of the year.
