United Airlines, a major American airline headquartered in Chicago, announced its plans to hire 15,000 new employees by the end of 2022. Among these, 2,300 job openings will be available in Denver, Colorado, where United has recently opened its 620,000-square-foot flight training center.
The new positions will primarily focus on customer-facing roles such as flight attendants and customer service representatives. However, United also plans to hire pilots, technicians, and corporate staff. The airline aims to increase its workforce by approximately 50% compared to 2020 levels, as travel demand has started to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic.
United CEO Scott Kirby stated that “this is exciting news for our company, our culture, and the communities we serve. We’re proud to resume the pilot hiring process and plan to welcome back some of our furloughed pilots.” United had placed some of its employees on furlough due to the decrease in travel demand during the pandemic.
Denver Mayor Michael Hancock acknowledged United’s commitment to the city, stating that the airline has been a cornerstone of the economy for nearly a century and is responsible for supporting thousands of jobs in the area. He also highlighted the importance of ensuring diversity in the hiring process to ensure access to good-paying jobs regardless of race, gender, or ethnicity.
United’s announcement was praised by many, including labor unions and industry experts. Sara Nelson, the president of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, referred to the move as “an investment in the skilled workforce that is the backbone of the aviation industry.” Rick Seaney, an airline industry analyst, called the news “encouraging” and suggested that it reflects United’s optimism about the future of travel demand.
However, some concerns were raised about United’s ability to fill all of the new roles amidst a tight labor market. The airline industry has faced a shortage of workers in recent years, and the pandemic has only exacerbated this trend. United’s recruitment efforts may face stiff competition from other airlines and industries seeking skilled employees.
In response to these concerns, United has launched various initiatives to make the positions more attractive to potential candidates. For instance, the airline has focused on creating a more inclusive workplace and has pledged to increase the diversity of its workforce. United is also known for providing its employees with benefits such as healthcare, retirement plans, and travel perks.
Overall, United’s decision to hire 15,000 new employees can be seen as a sign of hope for the aviation industry and for the broader economy. As travel demand rebounds from the pandemic, the airline will play an instrumental role in connecting people and supporting local communities. The job opportunities created by United will provide a lifeline for many individuals and families who may have been struggling during the pandemic.