DENVER -- Leaders of the United Airlines' pilots union have tentatively agreed to pay cuts to help keep the financially struggling airline flying.

The pilots union is endorsing a $2.2 billion reduction in labor costs over 5 1/2 years, including substantial pay cuts to help United avoid bankruptcy.

The union membership has 30 days to vote on the recommendation.

United Airlines needs to cut $5.8 billion from all of its union as part of a deal to qualify for $1.8 billion in government-guaranteed loans.

That loan would help the airline avoid bankruptcy.

United is the largest carrier at Denver International Airport, employing more than 7,000 people in Colorado.