Continental to cut 500 jobs at downtown offices

HOUSTON - In a letter to the Texas Workforce Commission, Continental Airlines announced that the company would be laying off 500 workers in Houston at two of its offices located downtown.

Layoffs will start in April and continue through June 30, and will primarily effect employees working in management and clerical duties. The cuts will come from Continental's offices at 1600 Smith Street and 600 Jefferson Avenue.

The cuts will not affect pilots, flight attendants, gate agents or other front line employees.

On October 1, 2010 Continental merged with Chicago-based United Airlines. Continental continues to operate as a subsidiary of United until the Federal Aviation Administration approves a joint operating certificate later this year.