OREANDA-NEWS. SkyWest Airlines’ pilots last week accepted a three-year pay agreement, securing top compensation and work rules in the regional industry. The agreement, for which the strong majority of pilots voted in favor, is effective immediately and runs through mid-2018.

“SkyWest pilots are top of our industry, and this agreement reflects that position,” said Mike Thompson, SkyWest Airlines Chief Operating Officer. “This vote reaffirms SkyWest’s position as an industry leader and ensures we are best positioned for future opportunity. We look forward to continuing to work with our pilots and all SkyWest people to further advance SkyWest’s position as the airline and employer of choice.”

The new agreement provides salary increases for all pilots, a substantial increase to first-year pay, guaranteed profit sharing and an increased 401(k) match, as well as a number of enhancements to work rules. The previous agreement became amendable in January 2015.

SkyWest, a subsidiary of SkyWest, Inc. (NASDAQ: SKYW) was named one of “America’s Best Employers” by Forbes in 2015. As a leading air service provider offering global access to millions of people each month, SkyWest partners with the world’s largest network carriers including United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, US Airways, American Airlines and Alaska Airlines. With a fleet of 344 aircraft, SkyWest’s nearly 10,800 aviation professionals operate more than 1,800 flights each day to 195 destinations throughout North America. SkyWest is known for its industry-leading workforce, exceptional leadership team, and continued solid operational and economic performance. The airline is headquartered in St. George, Utah.