Pact Expands Options for American Eagle Pilots.(Originated from The Miami Herald)

Mar. 26--American Eagle pilots could be the early winners of American Airlines' labor dispute, though the rewards carry some risks.

As part of the agreement ironed out last week between American's management and its pilots union, negotiators devised a two-way hiring track that gives American Eagle pilots career opportunities while protecting American pilots from layoffs.

Pilots from American Eagle, American's commuter affiliate, who are represented by a separate union, would fly the small jets that American plans to buy.

As a key part of the proposal, senior regional jet captains at Eagle could opt for a career at the main airline. At least one of every two openings at American would go to an Eagle pilot, offering the potential for much higher salaries, better benefits and a …