[naviga:h3]American, pilots union reach deal[/naviga:h3]

NEW YORK — American Airlines has reached an agreement with its pilots’ union to avoid canceling thousands of flights during the holiday season.

A scheduling glitch had left thousands of flights without a captain, co-pilot or both between Dec. 17 and Dec. 31 at dozens of airports. The airline and the Allied Pilots Association had disagreed how to overcome the problem.

American said Friday that the two sides “have put that worry to rest to make sure our flights will operate as scheduled.”

The union said it withdrew a grievance after reaching an agreement.

American, the world’s biggest airline, expects to operate more than 200,000 flights in December.

[naviga:h3]Luggage that uses batteries restricted[/naviga:h3]

So-called smart luggage that includes tracking technology and remote locks won’t be allowed in the cargo holds of American Airlines or Delta Air Lines planes unless the lithium batteries used to power the devices are removed, the airlines said in statements Friday.

The new policy from two of the world’s biggest carriers takes effect Jan. 15 and reflects concern that lithium batteries can start a fire and endanger planes.

A representative of United Airlines said the carrier plans to announce similar restrictions soon.

Lithium battery devices, including laptops and hoverboards, can pose a fire risk.