The lawsuit filed Tuesday in federal court in San Francisco says nearly all black employees at United Continental Holdings Inc., United's parent company, are in non-management positions.
The airline carrier denies the allegation. Spokeswoman Megan McCarthy says United does not tolerate discrimination of any kind.
The lawsuit alleges that blacks were place in management simply to give the world's largest airline company a false appearance of diversity. It also claims they are often excluded from social gatherings, informal email chains and other forums where company issues are discussed.
The pilots are seeking an end to the alleged discrimination, back pay and other damages.