Long call reserve notice for United pilots
Short answer
At least 18 hours before a trip's report time, or 16 before a short call starts. Assignments made 1200–1359 need 14 hours; VEC lines 12 (14 on the last day off).
What the contract says
“a Long Call Reserve must be assigned the Trip with a minimum of eighteen (18) hours notice prior to report time or a minimum of sixteen (16) hours notice prior to the start of a Short Call period”
“when an assignment is made in the window between 1200 and 1359 window (as prescribed in Section 20-I-6-c) the notice period shall be fourteen (14) hours”
Does the 18 hours count from the call or from the assignment?
From the time the trip is assigned to you, measured to the trip’s report time (or to the start of the short call). § 20-K-5-a
What changes in the 1200–1359 window?
An assignment made in the window between 1200 and 1359 (the contract points to 20-I-6-c for it) needs only 14 hours’ notice before report time or the start of a short call. § 20-K-5-a-(1)
Is it different on a VEC line?
Yes. A Voluntary Early Check reserve on long call can be assigned with 12 hours’ notice, or 14 hours if the assignment is made on the last day off. § 20-K-5-a-(2)
Can I accept less notice?
Yes. The contract lets a pilot waive these notice provisions, so you can agree to a shorter call-out. § 20-K-5-a-(3)
This page explains contract language; it is not legal advice. If your situation is not covered, ask your union representative.