Union: American pilots pushed to speed up flights

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Dallas • The pilots' union president says American Airlines is reducing its safety margin by "manipulating" flight plans with tactics that include faster speeds.

The union official suggests that American is trying to avoid canceling flights when crews push the limits of their legally allowed work shifts.

American did not respond directly to the union leader's claims. A spokesman said the airline takes safety and regulations seriously.

Dan Carey, who just started a three-year term as president of the Allied Pilots Association, said Thursday in a note to members that pilots were reporting pressure to approve faster flight plans.