Deadhead deviation rules for United pilots
Short answer
Yes. Tell the company at least 15 hours before the deadhead, or by the time of assignment if later, and you travel on PS5 positive space.
What the contract says
“A Pilot may elect to deviate from a deadhead provided he contacts the Company no later than fifteen (15) hours prior to the deadhead or the time of assignment or reassignment, whichever is later.”
“A Pilot shall be provided PS5 positive-space authorization for his deviation”
Where can I travel from or to?
If your base and home of record are both in the lower 48 states, from anywhere in the lower 48 to where the trip starts, or from where it ends to anywhere in the lower 48. The contract has separate rules when either is outside the lower 48. § 5-D-1-a § 5-D-1-b § 5-D-1-d
Can I deviate in the middle of a trip?
Only with company agreement, and you must make sure you haven’t been reassigned before you go. § 5-D-4
When am I released at the end of a trip?
If you told the company you’ll deviate at the end of the trip and there is no off-duty period between your last flight and the deadhead, you are released when the last flight arrives, provided you haven’t been reassigned by then. § 5-D-5-a
This page explains contract language; it is not legal advice. If your situation is not covered, ask your union representative.