Hundreds of United Airlines pilots recently picketed outside Houston's Bush Intercontinental Airport, demanding new contracts. At least 2,000 United pilots were expected to picket on Friday at ten major airports across the country. The pilots wore their full uniforms and held signs, calling for increased pay and better work-life balance with schedules. They want a scheduling system that would make it harder for management to have them work on scheduled days off. Reports suggest that pilots from Southwest Airlines and American Airlines have also expressed frustration with their contracts. While pilots for these airlines have authorized a strike for better conditions from their management, an actual strike that affects travelers is unlikely. Airlines are trying to reassure travelers about potential roadblocks for their summer vacation plans. For United pilots, much of it comes down to stalled contract negotiations after four years, during which they have requested changes to both work rules and their scheduling system.