American Airlines CEO Robert Isom is facing mounting internal resistance, with the Allied Pilots Association (APA) representing 16,000 pilots considering a no-confidence vote in his leadership. The union's scrutiny stems from the carrier's lackluster financial results and operational shortcomings exposed during recent winter disruptions.
The core tension reflects deeper strategic concerns: American Airlines remains saddled with approximately $35 billion in debt while struggling to match the profitability and efficiency of rival carriers like United Airlines, particularly in competitive markets