New Contract Gives Southwest Airlines Pilots Higher Pay

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DALLAS (AP) — Southwest Airlines Co. pilots have ratified a new four-year contract that includes higher pay and bonuses.

The Dallas-based carrier on Monday announced approval of the deal.

About 84 percent of Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association members who cast ballots voted in favor of the plan.

The deal includes an immediate 15 percent pay raise. Contract negotiations began in 2012. Mediated talks started in 2014. Pilots last November rejected another proposal. The union represents about 8,400 pilots.