Comair pilots reject Delta contract

J.C. Lawson, Air Line Pilot's Association representative, says the vote pivoted on safety issues

COVINGTON, Kentucky (CNN) -- Striking Comair pilots voted Saturday to reject a new contract proposed by the National Mediation Board.

A spokesman for the Air Line Pilots Association said issues such as pilot rest time and retirement benefits proved to be stumbling blocks. Pilots rejected the contract by a vote of 1,042-99. A simple majority was required to agree to the contract.

Pilot union officials indicated a main sticking point of the negotiations was the minimum amount of rest time required between flights. "This is serious. This comes right down to what safety is about in the airline industry, " said Capt. J.C. Lawson, Air Line Pilot's Association during a Saturday night news conference.

Comair President Randy Rademacher said in a statement the company was disappointed with the outcome, and would now have to further reduce its operations -- which are already temporarily suspended -- to shore up the airline for a longer strike.

"However, the courage, strength and support the non-pilot employees have shown for this airline and each other is inspirational. I want to thank our employees, our customers and the communities we serve for their support during this time. I deeply regret the significant impact this vote will have on them," said Rademacher's statement on the Comair Web site.

The statement from Rademacher said no new talks were scheduled at the moment.

AUDIO Comair Captain Max Roberts gives the union's perspective on the labor talks 298K/27 sec. AIFF or WAV sound   MESSAGE BOARD Airline strikes

The contract, which Delta had called an "industry-leading offer," was made after the National Mediation Board brought the two sides together for talks.

Earlier Saturday, Delta President Frederick W. Reid warned that if the new contract is rejected, the company could face more layoffs. About 200 pilot positions and the jobs of another 2,000 Comair employees -- half its staff -- have been eliminated since the strike began.

Comair is the nation's second-largest commuter airline. Its 1,350 pilots have been on strike since March 26 over issues of pay, rest time and retirement benefits. The airline has since shut its operations, at least temporarily.