ORLANDO, Fla. — Citing billions of dollars in losses from the COVID-19 pandemic, United Airlines has notified the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity of plans to reduce its workforce at all facilities at Orlando and Tampa International Airports by more than 500 employees.
In a letter to the FL DEO, United officials say travel restrictions, stay-home orders, and concern about a lack of control over the virus, have brought travel bookings to a near-standstill.
READ: United Airlines projects massive layoffs in fall
The letter, dated July 8, says the “workforce reductions” will affect 447 employees at OIA. In Tampa, 109 employees will be laid off or furloughed.
The “employment separations,” as they’re referred to in the letter, are expected to begin on October 1, or during the following two weeks, and could last six months or longer.
Read the letter below:
United letter by Jason Kelly on Scribd
United says some employees will have options that could lead to a larger number of workers ultimately losing their jobs.
READ: Merritt Island boat manufacturer to cut dozens of jobs
In the letter, United says they’d previously suspended raises, reduced schedules, and reduced executive pay, but it wasn’t enough to overcome a 90% annual reduction in demand for air travel.
We’ve contacted United Airlines for additional comments, but they have not replied.
Cox Media Group
