Saturday, December 29, 2012
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Airline Division Week In Review December 22, 2012
NetJets Mechanics Negotiators Meet, Refine Proposals
The NetJets mechanics negotiating committee met this week in Columbus. Committee members Chad Morrison, and Trent Rutledge were joined by Local 284 Business Agent Paul Suffoletto and IBT Airline Division representatives Paul Alves and Chris Moore. The committee continued to review contract articles and began working on proposals that will be passed to the company when negotiations continue in early 2013.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
of the Department of Transportation will begin an audit next month of staffing at control towers across the U.S. to examine what seems to be a larger workforce in a smaller, more efficient industry.
Airlines and Industry
The new labor contracts American Eagle negotiated with each of its three unions have received approvalfrom U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Sean Lane.
Boeing has reached its 2012 delivery targets for its newest jumbo jets, the 787 Dreamliner and the 747-8, with barely a week left before the deadline. According to an announcement Thursday, the company delivered seven 787s to six airlines in 25 hours, bringing its total 2012 deliveries of its newest jets to 75.
A U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge will hear both sides of a debate about retirement benefits for American Airlines pilots who will be eligible for retirement when the airline emerges from bankruptcy.
The officers and staff of the Airline Division would like to take this opportunity to wish Seasons Greetings and a Merry Christmas to our members and families. The offices will reopen for business on Wednesday, December 26, 2012.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Airline Division Week In Review December 15, 2012
Airline Division Director, Representatives Attend ExpressJet Craft Meeting in TYS
On December 12th, Airline Division Director David Bourne and Representative Chris Moore travelled to Knoxville, Tennessee to attend the ExpressJet (XJT) maintenance craft meeting.
The meeting was chaired by Local 783 Business Agent Jason Brown and Local 783 Vice President John Stovall. Updates were given on Local business as well as grievances and the current state of contract negotiations at both ExpressJet and Atlantic Southeast Airlines. A very productive discussion ensued regarding improved communications at the Local and system wide levels.
Commenting on the discussions, Director Bourne ensured the mechanics that they will continue to see improvements in their representation and communications.
Airline Industry News
Government and Regulatory
After Canada privatized the agency responsible for overseeing its air traffic system, the nonprofit agency became more effective with lower costs and a stronger market for its technology, writes Alan Levin.
With Sen. Jim DeMint, R-S.C., resigning to head up The Heritage Foundation, Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., is likely the next in line for the top Republican job on the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee.
Federal Communications Commission Chairman Julius Genachowski sent a letter Thursday to the Federal Aviation Administration encouraging it to expand the permitted use of electronic devices on flights.
Airlines and Industry
The Allied Pilots Association on Thursday met with AMR CEO Tom Horton, who made the case to keep American Airlines a standalone company. However the union believes that it is better for pilots and the company as a whole if American Airlines merges with US Airways.
Cargo-only operators have responded by targeting “whole new product flows” in markets such as Turkey, Africa and South America, Bill Flynn, CEO of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings Inc. (AAWW), told investors last month.
Airline consolidation over the past 10 years has not resulted in the significantly higher average airfares that some analysts predicted, says a report from professional services firm PwC US.
Some security guards at John F. Kennedy International Airport have voted to go on strike
next week if their employer doesn't respond to their concerns over issues including training and equipment.
next week if their employer doesn't respond to their concerns over issues including training and equipment.
USAirways is expanding its market in South America, with the addition of service to Sao Paulo, Brazil. The new route will fly out of Charlotte, N.C., the carrier's largest hub. US Airways already has a nonstop route to Rio de Janeiro, also from Charlotte.
The TWU has begun a campaign to unseat AMFA as the union representing the mechanics of Southwest Airlines
Flight attendants at Minneapolis-based Compass Airlines, a feeder carrier for Delta Air Lines, took another step toward trying to get contract issues resolved with owner Trans States Holdings and warned they were willing to strike if an agreement isn’t reached.
Monday, December 10, 2012
Mechanics Dispatch for December 8, 2012
Seniority Integration Committee Update
The Seniority Committee met this week to discuss the remaining aspects of combining the three company seniority lists. The task before the committee is to create recommendations regarding seniority integration and its impact on the various contract articles of a Joint CBA.
The committee decided on 2 representatives, (1 sUA and 1 sCO), who will assist the negotiating committee by clarifying the intent of the SIC recommendations.
The different scenarios regarding lead and inspector seniority was discussed at length and it was determined that there would be a resounding impact to either group no matter which path was followed. Various ways to reduce that impact were discussed but in the end the group determined that following basic craft seniority principles (rather than a premium system) would be the most consistent and cleanest method. It was also determined that following craft seniority could provide more protections and allow for greater mobility by using a single craft seniority method.
Two of the more simple resolutions included an agreement to take a position to retain lifetime recall rights, and a method to settle ties in seniority. While the three previous topics were discussed and settled, there were other subjects that were not decided on. These include discussions surrounding such issues as breaks in seniority affecting CO and MCI mechanics but not UA. How to level this point will require further discussion as well as more detailed information from the company.
Other points that require further consideration include former management seniority adjustments, and Furloughed UA technicians currently working for CO. The committee felt more information and time was required to resolve differences and reach a consensus. An important item for the committee is maintaining adequate furlough protection language in a Joint CBA. A list of information needed to proceed was compiled and will be delivered to the company.
The next meeting will be during the second week of December. Along with continued discussions on open issues, the committee will review information supplied by the company and continue the arduous task of reviewing the seniority lists for errors or changes.
Airline Division working on Merger Policy
The Airline Board of Directors held its quarterly meeting on November 27th and 28th. A primary topic of discussion was the creation of a Division-wide merger policy. The Board members were given examples of how other unions have approached seniority list integrations in the past. These examples included integrations that have worked and others that have failed horribly. There was discussion also of the recent integrations that have occurred and which are occurring within the Division. It was also noted that the USAir pilots group currently represented by USAPA has been without a new agreement for 8 years trying to achieve a mutually acceptable solution for seniority integration. Their internal dispute regarding seniority integration has cost that pilot group millions of dollars in the form of lost opportunity costs, including wages not earned.
The Division’s Board members agreed that a Division-wide policy needed to be adopted by the Division because consolidation of the industry will continue. The Board discussed that a policy based on “date of hire” or “date of entering the craft” has considerable merit and should be included in the policy of the Airline Division.
To that end, subcommittees of representatives from the IBT-represented crafts are now assigned to begin the construction of a merger policy based on the “date of hire” and/or “date of entering the craft” approach. These sub committees will work towards preparing a draft that can be reviewed at the next Board of Directors meeting in March for possible adoption.
Paper FAA Certificates Will Expire
For those of you who still hold a paper license, stop procrastinating. Your paper license will no longer be valid on March 31, 2013. That means you can’t work! The good news is that it’s easy and painless to replace and it only costs $2.00. Just go to this link:
http://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/airmen_certification/expiring_paper_certificates/
Or search Google for “FAA Paper License Replacement.”
All paper certificate holders cannot exercise the privileges of their PAPER certificates after March 31, 2013. This includes all certificates that are issued under 14 CFR Part 63 and 65.
14 CFR 63.15(d) and 65.15(d) reads:
Duration of certificates. Except for temporary certificates issued under §63.15 and 65.15, the holder of a paper certificate issued under this part may not exercise the privileges of that certificate after March 31, 2013.
If your airman certificate was issued after July 2003 and is a plastic certificate, it already meets the paper-to plastic rule as specified in 14 CFR Parts 63 and 65 and you may disregard this notification.
Inspection Compliance
Please be sure if you are upgrading to inspection on the sUA side that you follow the proper procedures. Until bid area 301 is established in the hubs upgrades will continue. Don’t get into trouble with the FAA during this transition period; if you’re not sure call the inspection management group. Look for a more in depth report in a future issue of the Dispatch.
Mechanic Contract Books
Many members have asked when the company will print the new agreement. A grievance has been filed out of SFO on the matter. However given the timing of the expedited negotiations there will most likely be a new agreement in place prior to the printing of the transition agreement. To be clear, the printed copy that each member received in the mail prior to ratification is the agreement in place currently. If anyone would like an electronic copy of the agreement it can be found here:
http://www.teamster.org/sites/teamster.org/files/112911MasterTA.pdf
Furloughed members urged to update their addresses.
Members on furlough are advised to keep their addresses current with the company while on layoff. It is predicted that there will be many movements this year and there have been several members that have been removed from the seniority list because old addresses were on file when notices were sent.
If you are in touch with a furloughed member, please forward this information to them. Updates may be emailed to: ESC@united.com . The ESC will provide a fax number and ask members to send the address change accompanied with a signature.
Airline Division Week In Review for December 8, 2012
Net Jet Flight Attendant Discussions Continue
NetJet Mechanics Identify Issues for Upcoming Negotiations
The Net Jet mechanics negotiating committee also met this week in Columbus. Committee members Chad Morrison, John Wolfe, Isaac Thielman and Trent Rutledge were joined by Local 284 Business Agent Paul Suffoletto and IBT Airline Division representatives Paul Alves and Chris Moore. The committee reviewed the current contract and based on member input began identifying the issues that will need to be addressed during negotiations including adding the Maintenance Controllers to the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Airline Division Working on Merger Policy
The Airline Board of Directors held its quarterly meeting on November 27th and 28th. A primary topic of discussion was the creation of a Division-wide merger policy.
The Board members were given examples of how other unions have approached seniority list integrations in the past. These examples included integrations that have worked and others that have failed horribly. There was discussion also of the recent integrations that have occurred and which are occurring within the Division. It was also noted that the USAir pilots group currently represented by USAPA has been without a new agreement for 8 years trying to achieve a mutually acceptable solution for seniority integration. Their internal dispute regarding seniority integration has cost that pilot group millions of dollars in the form of lost opportunity costs, including wages not earned.
The Division’s Board members agreed that a Division-wide policy needed to be adopted by the Division because consolidation of the industry will continue. The Board discussed that a policy based on “date of hire” or “date of entering the craft” has considerable merit and should be included in the policy of the Airline Division. To that end, subcommittees of representatives from the IBT-represented crafts are now assigned to begin the construction of a merger policy based on the “date of hire” and/or “date of entering the craft” approach. These sub committees will work towards preparing a draft that can be reviewed at the next Board of Directors meeting in March for possible adoption.
FAA Paper Certificates Set to Expire Soon
For members who still hold FAA paper licenses, the time for conversion to the new, plastic card is fast approaching. Paper licenses will no longer be valid as of March 31, 2013. Information can be found by accessing the following link:
Or search Google for “FAA Paper License Replacement.”
All paper certificate holders cannot exercise the privileges of their PAPER certificates after March 31, 2013. This includes all certificates that are issued under 14 CFR Part 63 and 65.
Duration of certificates. Except for temporary certificates issued under §63.15 and 65.15, the holder of a paper certificate issued under this part may not exercise the privileges of that certificate after March 31, 2013.
If your airman certificate was issued after July 2003 and is a plastic certificate, it already meets the paper-to plastic rule as specified in 14 CFR Parts 63 and 65 and does not need to be reissued.
Governmental and Regulatory
The Federal Aviation Administration and other industry groups informing pilot training are calling for changes in stall training, a key aspect of pilot training critical for maintaining airplane safety.
Airlines and Industry
In the current economic environment, unions are looking at creative ways to protect members’ hard fought gains.
At the request of the mediator assigned to talks between Boeing and one of its unions, both parties have agreed to suspend negotiations until after the first of the year.
Boeing has decreased the weight of the 747-8 Freighter and tweaked its configuration to increase aerodynamic performance. The move comes after customers complained about the plane's performance.
Delta Air Lines has inquired with Singapore Airlines about purchasing its 49% stakein Virgin Atlantic. Singapore says it is hosting talks to possibly sell its stake, but didn't say Delta was involved.
Net Jet Flight Attendant negotiations continued this week at Net Jet headquarters in Columbus, Ohio. The Company provided the Union with an economic overview of the Company’s current and projected forecast. IBT Economist Jim Kimball joined the team to analyze the company financials and advise the committee during the negotiating of the economic package.
NetJet Mechanics Identify Issues for Upcoming Negotiations
The Net Jet mechanics negotiating committee also met this week in Columbus. Committee members Chad Morrison, John Wolfe, Isaac Thielman and Trent Rutledge were joined by Local 284 Business Agent Paul Suffoletto and IBT Airline Division representatives Paul Alves and Chris Moore. The committee reviewed the current contract and based on member input began identifying the issues that will need to be addressed during negotiations including adding the Maintenance Controllers to the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
Airline Division Working on Merger Policy
The Airline Board of Directors held its quarterly meeting on November 27th and 28th. A primary topic of discussion was the creation of a Division-wide merger policy.
The Board members were given examples of how other unions have approached seniority list integrations in the past. These examples included integrations that have worked and others that have failed horribly. There was discussion also of the recent integrations that have occurred and which are occurring within the Division. It was also noted that the USAir pilots group currently represented by USAPA has been without a new agreement for 8 years trying to achieve a mutually acceptable solution for seniority integration. Their internal dispute regarding seniority integration has cost that pilot group millions of dollars in the form of lost opportunity costs, including wages not earned.
The Division’s Board members agreed that a Division-wide policy needed to be adopted by the Division because consolidation of the industry will continue. The Board discussed that a policy based on “date of hire” or “date of entering the craft” has considerable merit and should be included in the policy of the Airline Division. To that end, subcommittees of representatives from the IBT-represented crafts are now assigned to begin the construction of a merger policy based on the “date of hire” and/or “date of entering the craft” approach. These sub committees will work towards preparing a draft that can be reviewed at the next Board of Directors meeting in March for possible adoption.
FAA Paper Certificates Set to Expire Soon
For members who still hold FAA paper licenses, the time for conversion to the new, plastic card is fast approaching. Paper licenses will no longer be valid as of March 31, 2013. Information can be found by accessing the following link:
Or search Google for “FAA Paper License Replacement.”
All paper certificate holders cannot exercise the privileges of their PAPER certificates after March 31, 2013. This includes all certificates that are issued under 14 CFR Part 63 and 65.
14 CFR 63.15(d) and 65.15(d) reads:
Duration of certificates. Except for temporary certificates issued under §63.15 and 65.15, the holder of a paper certificate issued under this part may not exercise the privileges of that certificate after March 31, 2013.
If your airman certificate was issued after July 2003 and is a plastic certificate, it already meets the paper-to plastic rule as specified in 14 CFR Parts 63 and 65 and does not need to be reissued.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
The Federal Aviation Administration and other industry groups informing pilot training are calling for changes in stall training, a key aspect of pilot training critical for maintaining airplane safety.
Airlines and Industry
In the current economic environment, unions are looking at creative ways to protect members’ hard fought gains.
At the request of the mediator assigned to talks between Boeing and one of its unions, both parties have agreed to suspend negotiations until after the first of the year.
Boeing has decreased the weight of the 747-8 Freighter and tweaked its configuration to increase aerodynamic performance. The move comes after customers complained about the plane's performance.
Delta Air Lines has inquired with Singapore Airlines about purchasing its 49% stakein Virgin Atlantic. Singapore says it is hosting talks to possibly sell its stake, but didn't say Delta was involved.
Monday, December 3, 2012
Airline Division Week In Review December 1, 2012
Greg Uselmann Leaves Local 1224, Returns to the Cockpit
Business Agent Greg Uselmann has left Local 1224 to return to flying.
A longtime union member and representative in the airline industry, Greg notified Local 1224 President Captain Dan Wells of his intent recently. Greg has been fully engaged in union work since 1998 and has been an integral piece of Teamsters Local 1224 for two and a half years. As a pilot, it has been his desire to return to the cockpit for some time. He recently secured a private flying position working closely with two longtime friends.
During his time with the local he was the full time business agent working primarily with Allegiant Air, Silver Airways and Southern Air.
“We wish him only the best in his future endeavors. It is our hope that, once he has completed his training and becomes accustomed with the demands of his new position, we will be able to utilize his expertise on a part time basis,” said Wells.
“Greg’s service has been invaluable to Teamsters Local 1224. He is a unionist at heart and we will miss his dedication to our membership, our local and the union cause,” Wells concluded.
Airline Division Board Meets
This past week, the Airline Division Board of Directors met in Ft. Lauderdale to review the current status of the Division and ongoing initiatives. Following an introduction by Board Chairman George Miranda (Local 210), the leadership received reports from numerous locals about ongoing events at the various properties and Division matters and their affect on the locals.
In accordance with policy, the two day meeting was very compressed and the Directors spent their time on the pressing matters, with an overall eye on fiscal responsibility and ensuring the highest level of services for the membership.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
Drone crashes are raising concerns about the viability of their use in U.S. skies.
The Federal Aviation Administration said Friday that flight attendants will soon be covered by Department of Labor workplace safety standards.
Some of the benefits of the Next Generation Air Transportation System include consolidation and modernization of radar facilities, but a Bloomberg study has found that efforts toward that end have been blocked consistently by lawmakers in Congress.
The National Transportation Safety Board has released its recommendations for new Federal Aviation Administration regulations governing cargo cabin fire safety. The recommendations include requirements for fire-suppression and fire-detection technologies to be present in the cargo-containing areas of cargo jets.
In a letter to House Speaker John Boehner, R-Ohio, Rep. John Mica, R-Fla., says he has decided not to seek another term as chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Mica is endorsing Rep. Bill Shuster, R-Pa., for the post.
Airline and Industry
AMR CEO Tom Horton unveiled a restructuring plan this year to increase $1 billion in revenue and decrease $2 billion in costs.
Superstorm Sandy caused US Airways Group to lose an estimated $35 million in profits, the carrier said in a securities filing. The storm caused a significant reduction in bookings that negatively affected profits in October and November. The airline says bookings have returned to normal levels.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Mechanics Dispatch for November 16, 2012
On November 13th the Airline Division hosted a meeting of Principal Officers, Business Agents and the ten rank and file members of the National Seniority Integration Committee representing the new United Airlines. The Airline Division called the meeting in order to resolve disagreements among the National SIC over what method should be used to integrate the seniority lists as well as the applicability of the Consent Decree. The Division believed it was in everyone’s best interest to resolve these disagreements promptly, as both suggested alternatives had the very real potential of winding up in federal court and in front of an arbitrator. If that happened, the amalgamation negotiations would have ground to a stop until the federal court litigation and arbitration were completed – processes that likely would take years to complete.
The meeting began with introductions and a history of what had transpired over the course of the last year. It was explained to the group that there were several legal opinions gathered as well as the input of Arbitrator/Mediator Ralph Berger regarding the Consent Decree and its applicability to the combined group upon ratification of an amalgamated contract. All of the experts agreed that efforts to terminate or amend the Consent Decree through federal court litigation likely would not succeed given the high legal hurdles that exist. In addition to the limited chance of success, the Principal Officers agreed that the litigation process would be lengthy and extremely expensive. It was felt the better course of action was to secure strong job protections, including no-furlough protections as strong as or even stronger than the ones that are in the existing agreements. The Principal Officers also agreed that two members of the National Seniority Integration Committee will assist the negotiating committee to help achieve these critical job protections.
The Airline Division also addressed the idea of a rank ratio for the purposes of bidding. It is the opinion of the Division that this idea goes against the very core of unionism and has been destructive in other work groups that have used it.
The group was also made aware that the 55 member rank and file steering committee recently agreed to enter expedited bargaining with the carrier.
The Airline Division then informed the group that it would not commence or support litigation seeking to terminate or amend the Consent Decree, and that it opposed the use of rank ratio method to integrate the seniority lists. The Airline Division also advised that it would not finance any federal litigation or arbitration regarding these matters. The Principal Officers were then asked if any of them planned to either appeal the Decree or attempt to arbitrate for the purposes of rank ratio. None of the Principal
Officers were willing to proceed down these paths. The Airline Division then declared that this matter is now considered closed institutionally and the integration will proceed under the constraints of the Consent Decree and without using a rank ratio method to integrate the lists.
The committee now has several issues to work through including how to handle premium seniority, how to fairly apply the rules of the Decree for the sCO and sCMI groups, as well as other matters, such as tie breakers for future employees.
The committee will meet on November 27th -28th with a follow up meeting on December 10th -14th. Future dates will be discussed at these upcoming meetings
Monday, November 12, 2012
Airline Division Week In Review - November 11, 2012
CitationAir Discussion Continue
Members of the CitationAir Pilots Negotiating Committee convened in Cleveland, OH, this past week to prepare for resumption of bargaining on their Collective Bargaining Agreement.
On Tuesday, both parties’ negotiating teams worked separately in caucus till late afternoon preparing their respective proposals. The Company delivered their initial proposals for: Section 6 (Training & Checking), Section 9 (Uniforms) and Section 22 (System Board of Adjustment).
Union negotiators presented a counterproposal for Section 11 (Union Security). The parties had in-depth discussions on their positions and on Wednesday both parties again worked in their respective caucuses, with the union presenting a counterproposal to Section 22, which was presented to the Company, after which they returned to caucus and worked on a response to Section 9, which was presented later in the day. The Company then presented another counter-proposal on Section 22. During the ensuing discussions regarding the Company’s position, a compromise was reached on the remaining open items in Section 22 and a tentative agreement (TA) was achieved.
The weeks bargaining session concluded on Thursday, with union negotiators presenting a counter proposal on Section 6 of the agreement.
ExpressJet Update
Negotiations continued this past week in Philadelphia, PA, with discussions and a tentative agreement concluded on Section 16, (Moving Expenses).
While discussions continued and proposals were exchanged on Section 7 (Hours of Service), the parties remain apart on a number of issues.
The mediator has scheduled new dates for the first quarter of next year, with the next session in Houston, January 8th through the 10th.
Airline Industry News
Government and Regulatory
The Federal Aviation Administration, the National Transportation Safety Board and members of the airline industry have agreed to share summaries of safety information under strict restrictions and will not be made public.
Airlines and Industry
Minneapolis-based Regional Elite Airline Services, a subsidiary of Delta Air
Lines, will close its doors Nov. 13 as part of Delta's cost-cutting operational strategy.
Lines, will close its doors Nov. 13 as part of Delta's cost-cutting operational strategy.
The Federal Aviation Administration has tapped Melbourne, Fla.-based Harris Corp. to implement two of the six core programs of the Next Generation Air Transportation System.
In an effort to limit losses due to rising oil prices and tough competition, airlines are looking to the seemingly attractive option of jet-fuel hedging.
On this day when we remember and honor our veterans, the Airline Division would like to extend our thanks and remembrance to our members past and present who have served our nation.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Airline Division Week In Review - October 16, 2012
Northern Air Cargo Pilots Ratify First Contract
After over four years of dedicated work and by an overwhelming margin, the pilots of Northern Air Cargo have ratified their first contract.
The all cargo airline operates a fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft throughout the state of Alaska. They are owned by Saltchuk Resources, a transportation holding company that owns other transportation related companies including Aloha Airlines, who has members also represented by the Airline Division.
NAC’s pilots are members of Local 959. This represents their first airline agreement for the local since Wein Air.
Commenting on the announcement, Airline Division Director David Bourne said, “I want to extend my congratulations to the pilots of Northern Air Cargo on this momentous vote. I would also like to recognize and thank Rick Canoy and Derek Musto for their hard work and dedication to the pilots and Local 959 Principal Officer Rick Boyles and his team for the years of effort that concluded this agreement.”
Bourne went on to say, “This has truly been a team effort and should leave no doubt about the dedication of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and the Airline Division to reach out and represent members wherever they may be.”
Centurion MD-11 Suffers Gear Collapse on Landing in Brazil, Airline Division Responds Immediately
On Sunday October 14th, a McDonnell Douglass MD-11 freighter operated by Centurion Air Cargo, suffered a landing gear collapse on rollout from landing at the Varicopas (VCP) airport in Brazil.
The flight crew, members of Local 769, brought the aircraft to a safe stop and secured the plane before exiting through the main entry door. There was no fire or loss to cargo, but the aircraft suffered substantial damage and closed the airport as it blocked the runway.
Upon notification of the incident, the Safety Hotline was immediately notified and began coordinating efforts with Local 769 Business Agent Daisy Gonzalez-Colli and the Airline Division. While efforts immediately began to secure the crew, hotline representatives coordinated with IBT Legislative Director Jack Albertine, who was briefed and ready to intercede if needed with the U.S. State Department and other agencies to protect the crew if needed. Additional contacts were made by the hotline team to secure legal assistance if needed. Business Agent Gonzalez-Colli also coordinated with Centurion management to keep abreast of all available information.
Thanks to the coordinated efforts, the crew was quickly given their travel release by the local aviation authorities and they were returned back to the U.S. in short order.
“In addition to being very grateful that the crew is safe and unharmed, I would like to congratulate the team that immediately responded and worked nonstop on the crews behalf to ensure their protection and safe transit back to the U.S. in a prompt manner,” said Airline Division Director David Bourne. “The rapid response by the hotline team and Local 769 was instrumental in protecting the crew in the post incident phase and shows the value of having the team in place to respond.
While this thankfully was not as serious as it could have been, it has provided us an opportunity to see firsthand how a response should take place. Our support for the crew will continue until all investigations are completed and we will also conduct a review to further refine our plan and response for the future,” Bourne concluded.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
The Federal Aviation Administration's acting administrator, Michael Huerta, emphasized the need for collaboration among government, industry, unions and others in a speech about the Next Generation Air Transportation System.
Industry and Labor
Southwest Airlines has hired a former head of the Federal Aviation Administration as senior vice president of labor relations. Randy Babbitt will be responsible for communication, negotiations and maintaining relationships with each of Southwest's 11 unions.
Two unions have come together in a new attempt to represent Delta Air Lines' flight attendants.
A federal judge has ruled that US Airways Group can begin contract negotiations with its pilots, taking a controversial seniority clause into account, but that the airline risks litigation in doing so.
As a preventive measure, American Airlines will modify seats with a second locking mechanism on 49 Boeing 767 planes. The work should be completed around Oct. 21.
Alaska Air Group announced an order for 50 Boeing 737s on Thursday. The order is a mix of current 737s as well as the updated 737 Max-8 and Max-9 jets.
Delta Air Lines has added more than 100 daily flights at La Guardia Airport in New York, a move that it hopes will increase market share in the region.
American Airlines and US Airways Group have signed a nondisclosure agreement to exchange confidential financial information, which included terms to stop talking publicly about a merger.
Regional Elite Airline Services, a wholly owned Delta subsidiary that provides ground services, is reportedly ending its operations.
After over four years of dedicated work and by an overwhelming margin, the pilots of Northern Air Cargo have ratified their first contract.
The all cargo airline operates a fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft throughout the state of Alaska. They are owned by Saltchuk Resources, a transportation holding company that owns other transportation related companies including Aloha Airlines, who has members also represented by the Airline Division.
NAC’s pilots are members of Local 959. This represents their first airline agreement for the local since Wein Air.
Commenting on the announcement, Airline Division Director David Bourne said, “I want to extend my congratulations to the pilots of Northern Air Cargo on this momentous vote. I would also like to recognize and thank Rick Canoy and Derek Musto for their hard work and dedication to the pilots and Local 959 Principal Officer Rick Boyles and his team for the years of effort that concluded this agreement.”
Bourne went on to say, “This has truly been a team effort and should leave no doubt about the dedication of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and the Airline Division to reach out and represent members wherever they may be.”
Centurion MD-11 Suffers Gear Collapse on Landing in Brazil, Airline Division Responds Immediately
On Sunday October 14th, a McDonnell Douglass MD-11 freighter operated by Centurion Air Cargo, suffered a landing gear collapse on rollout from landing at the Varicopas (VCP) airport in Brazil.
The flight crew, members of Local 769, brought the aircraft to a safe stop and secured the plane before exiting through the main entry door. There was no fire or loss to cargo, but the aircraft suffered substantial damage and closed the airport as it blocked the runway.
Upon notification of the incident, the Safety Hotline was immediately notified and began coordinating efforts with Local 769 Business Agent Daisy Gonzalez-Colli and the Airline Division. While efforts immediately began to secure the crew, hotline representatives coordinated with IBT Legislative Director Jack Albertine, who was briefed and ready to intercede if needed with the U.S. State Department and other agencies to protect the crew if needed. Additional contacts were made by the hotline team to secure legal assistance if needed. Business Agent Gonzalez-Colli also coordinated with Centurion management to keep abreast of all available information.
Thanks to the coordinated efforts, the crew was quickly given their travel release by the local aviation authorities and they were returned back to the U.S. in short order.
“In addition to being very grateful that the crew is safe and unharmed, I would like to congratulate the team that immediately responded and worked nonstop on the crews behalf to ensure their protection and safe transit back to the U.S. in a prompt manner,” said Airline Division Director David Bourne. “The rapid response by the hotline team and Local 769 was instrumental in protecting the crew in the post incident phase and shows the value of having the team in place to respond.
While this thankfully was not as serious as it could have been, it has provided us an opportunity to see firsthand how a response should take place. Our support for the crew will continue until all investigations are completed and we will also conduct a review to further refine our plan and response for the future,” Bourne concluded.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
The Federal Aviation Administration's acting administrator, Michael Huerta, emphasized the need for collaboration among government, industry, unions and others in a speech about the Next Generation Air Transportation System.
Industry and Labor
Southwest Airlines has hired a former head of the Federal Aviation Administration as senior vice president of labor relations. Randy Babbitt will be responsible for communication, negotiations and maintaining relationships with each of Southwest's 11 unions.
Two unions have come together in a new attempt to represent Delta Air Lines' flight attendants.
A federal judge has ruled that US Airways Group can begin contract negotiations with its pilots, taking a controversial seniority clause into account, but that the airline risks litigation in doing so.
As a preventive measure, American Airlines will modify seats with a second locking mechanism on 49 Boeing 767 planes. The work should be completed around Oct. 21.
Alaska Air Group announced an order for 50 Boeing 737s on Thursday. The order is a mix of current 737s as well as the updated 737 Max-8 and Max-9 jets.
Delta Air Lines has added more than 100 daily flights at La Guardia Airport in New York, a move that it hopes will increase market share in the region.
American Airlines and US Airways Group have signed a nondisclosure agreement to exchange confidential financial information, which included terms to stop talking publicly about a merger.
Regional Elite Airline Services, a wholly owned Delta subsidiary that provides ground services, is reportedly ending its operations.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Mechanics Dispatch for October 12, 2012
Airline Division meets with new Senior VP Tech Ops
On October 9th, Airline Division Director David Bourne, Attorney Ed Gleason, and Representatives Clacy Griswold, Paul Alves and Bob Fisher met with Greg Hart, the new Senior VP of Tech Ops along with Doug McKeen and Mike Bonds. This meeting was solely for the purpose of meeting the new Vice President. While no business was discussed, the Airline Division explained that one of its top priorities is and will be continuing to recapture work lost through previous outsourcing. The meeting went well. On a related issue; recently a management change occurred for the sub United GSE and facilities mechanics. Mike Lorenzeni has moved on and Ray Ames will assume his duties in regards to these two groups. Ray will report to Joe Ferreria in Tech Ops.
Negotiating Committee Correction
One name was inadvertently left off the list for the national rank and file negotiating committee. Allen Cosides was left off the list but will be attending negotiations as the national coordinator for the GSE members across the system. Allen’s presence will not affect the makeup of voting members, but he will have input to all issues concerning the new agreement.
Committee Update
The negotiating committee met September 20th and 21st in Denver for the purpose of creating an abbreviated opening proposal for the amalgamated agreement. This is one of the preliminary parts of the expedited mediation process. The committee spent the two days looking at each of the articles and proposals suggested by the members and steering committee and placed them in an order of importance. The group met again the week of the 24th and spent the time working in small subcommittees reviewing each line of each article of the three agreements including the new proposals and created recommendations to the various differences. There were many distinctions and each of these was placed in positions of importance. The work was concluded this week in Chicago where the team took the results of the previous two meeting weeks and created a combined plan which will be sent to the company. This step will begin the back and forth dialog with the company defined in interest based bargaining. With this step in place, the expedited negotiation process can begin. One final hurdle which remains is the official NMB Expedited Negotiating Training. The Team is waiting on training dates which can only be issued from the NMB. We have repeatedly made requests and expect the call for training to happen at any time and the committee is standing by and ready. This training for the new NMB procedures is an important requirement of the expedited mediation process.
Benefits Committee Update
Since the last Benefits update, the committee has met on three occasions to continue working on finalizing the opening proposals for benefits and pension. With the continued help of Hemant Berry, Assistant Director, Benefits Department for the IBT; and Pete Hardcastle, Pension Consultant from Cheiron, a recommendation will be given to the negotiating committee within the next few weeks, so they can be prepared and ready when the IBB process starts. With many sub company differences to overcome, the committee is confident they will be giving the negotiating committee a strong starting point for these issues.
Seniority Committee Update
The Seniority Committee will meet again the week of the 15th to continue discussions on the combined seniority lists. One of the tasks assigned to the Seniority Committee has been to review the seniority lists of each work area and push for obvious corrections from local management. The hope is to limit the number of actual seniority discrepancies and protests by making sure the list is as accurate as possible. Furloughed members urged to update their addresses. Members on furlough are advised to keep their addresses current with the company while on layoff. It is predicted that there will be many movements this year and there have been several members that have been removed from the seniority list because old addresses were on file when notices were sent. If you are in touch with a furloughed member, please forward this information to them. Updates may be emailed to: ESC@united.com . The ESC will provide a fax number and ask members to send the address change accompanied with a signature.
On October 9th, Airline Division Director David Bourne, Attorney Ed Gleason, and Representatives Clacy Griswold, Paul Alves and Bob Fisher met with Greg Hart, the new Senior VP of Tech Ops along with Doug McKeen and Mike Bonds. This meeting was solely for the purpose of meeting the new Vice President. While no business was discussed, the Airline Division explained that one of its top priorities is and will be continuing to recapture work lost through previous outsourcing. The meeting went well. On a related issue; recently a management change occurred for the sub United GSE and facilities mechanics. Mike Lorenzeni has moved on and Ray Ames will assume his duties in regards to these two groups. Ray will report to Joe Ferreria in Tech Ops.
Negotiating Committee Correction
One name was inadvertently left off the list for the national rank and file negotiating committee. Allen Cosides was left off the list but will be attending negotiations as the national coordinator for the GSE members across the system. Allen’s presence will not affect the makeup of voting members, but he will have input to all issues concerning the new agreement.
Committee Update
The negotiating committee met September 20th and 21st in Denver for the purpose of creating an abbreviated opening proposal for the amalgamated agreement. This is one of the preliminary parts of the expedited mediation process. The committee spent the two days looking at each of the articles and proposals suggested by the members and steering committee and placed them in an order of importance. The group met again the week of the 24th and spent the time working in small subcommittees reviewing each line of each article of the three agreements including the new proposals and created recommendations to the various differences. There were many distinctions and each of these was placed in positions of importance. The work was concluded this week in Chicago where the team took the results of the previous two meeting weeks and created a combined plan which will be sent to the company. This step will begin the back and forth dialog with the company defined in interest based bargaining. With this step in place, the expedited negotiation process can begin. One final hurdle which remains is the official NMB Expedited Negotiating Training. The Team is waiting on training dates which can only be issued from the NMB. We have repeatedly made requests and expect the call for training to happen at any time and the committee is standing by and ready. This training for the new NMB procedures is an important requirement of the expedited mediation process.
Benefits Committee Update
Since the last Benefits update, the committee has met on three occasions to continue working on finalizing the opening proposals for benefits and pension. With the continued help of Hemant Berry, Assistant Director, Benefits Department for the IBT; and Pete Hardcastle, Pension Consultant from Cheiron, a recommendation will be given to the negotiating committee within the next few weeks, so they can be prepared and ready when the IBB process starts. With many sub company differences to overcome, the committee is confident they will be giving the negotiating committee a strong starting point for these issues.
Seniority Committee Update
The Seniority Committee will meet again the week of the 15th to continue discussions on the combined seniority lists. One of the tasks assigned to the Seniority Committee has been to review the seniority lists of each work area and push for obvious corrections from local management. The hope is to limit the number of actual seniority discrepancies and protests by making sure the list is as accurate as possible. Furloughed members urged to update their addresses. Members on furlough are advised to keep their addresses current with the company while on layoff. It is predicted that there will be many movements this year and there have been several members that have been removed from the seniority list because old addresses were on file when notices were sent. If you are in touch with a furloughed member, please forward this information to them. Updates may be emailed to: ESC@united.com . The ESC will provide a fax number and ask members to send the address change accompanied with a signature.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Contract Negotiations Update October 5, 2012
So far, the amalgamated contract negotiation committee has met 2 times
in Denver. These two day meetings were used to work on finalizing the
non-economic opener to the company, and to review the sub CAL and sub
UAL contracts side by side to determine the differences between each
others article language. The committee members were broken up into 6 sub
groups and assigned a number of articles to review, then present to the
committee their recommendations. These recommendations will be reviewed
again at later meetings.
The next two committee meetings are scheduled for Chicago (October 8-12) and Newark (October 15-19) where we will be getting reports from the benefits and the seniority integration committees. We also have a tentative arrangement to meet with the National Mediation Board in Newark to receive training on Interest Based Bargaining.
At this time no formal face to face meetings with the company have been scheduled, but once the National Mediation Board class is scheduled to explain the rules and process of Interest Based Bargaining, the actual negotiations should begin quickly thereafter.
The company and the union are still looking at finishing contract talks by December 31, 2012. If the parties are at an impasse by that date, we have the option to revert back to normal Section 6 negotiations.
The next two committee meetings are scheduled for Chicago (October 8-12) and Newark (October 15-19) where we will be getting reports from the benefits and the seniority integration committees. We also have a tentative arrangement to meet with the National Mediation Board in Newark to receive training on Interest Based Bargaining.
At this time no formal face to face meetings with the company have been scheduled, but once the National Mediation Board class is scheduled to explain the rules and process of Interest Based Bargaining, the actual negotiations should begin quickly thereafter.
The company and the union are still looking at finishing contract talks by December 31, 2012. If the parties are at an impasse by that date, we have the option to revert back to normal Section 6 negotiations.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Airline Division Week In Review for September 30, 2012
Era Ends as Comair Ceases Operations
Faced with the realities of fleet reductions imposed by Delta Airlines as a consequence of their recently amended contract with Delta pilots, Comair Airlines flew their last flight on Saturday.
For years a recognized leader in the commuter industry, later referred to as “regional airlines,” Comair began service with twin engined piston aircraft, later transitioning to turboprops and finally becoming the first operator of jets in the regional industry.
Since the announcement of the impending shutdown; Teamsters Local Union 513, who represents Comair’s flight attendants, has been working to secure severance and other benefits as well as financial and job training assistance for the flight attendants.
Commenting on the shutdown, Local 513 President Elaine Morris said, “We would like to thank the Teamsters for getting industry leading pay and benefits for the Comair Flight Attendant group for the last 10 years. We signed our first contract on July 19, 2002 and the Teamsters have always been there for us, especially during this painful time. It has been a great journey.”
UAL Negotiating Committee Update
Assisted by the generosity of Local 455, its Principal Officer Steve Vairma, Business Agent John Hennelly and the Local committee; the negotiating committee met for over a two week period beginning on September 20th and 21st in Denver, Colorado. The committee spent the two days reviewing and prioritizing each of the articles and proposals suggested by the steering committee.
The committee reconvened September 26th through the 28th in Denver and spent the scheduled meeting time going through the three contracts of CO, UA and MCI to look for and identify any and all differences to each of the contracts in an effort to combine them into one.
The fourteen member committee was broken down into seven sub committees, with each committee was assigned a BA to assist with the review and help resolve questions the sub committees identified. Where differences were identified, recommendations were developed and reported to the entire committee. These recommendations will be reviewed when the committee meets in Chicago starting on October 10th.
The protocol agreement is not yet been completed. A key to that process; the outstanding issues delaying the completion of the protocol agreement; is defining the number of open issues. Once that is done it is expected the protocol will be finalized quickly. The committee is also awaiting dates for official training regarding the NMB expedited bargaining procedures. Dates have been suggested to complete the training and the membership will be notified when the schedule is confirmed.
ExpressJet Discussion continue in Baltimore
Negotiations for ExpressJet this past week brought a tentative agreement on Section 12 - (Field Trips), and continued discussions and exchange of proposals on Section 3 – (Classifications). While the parties are now closer to agreement on this section of the agreement, fundamental differences remain that must be resolved.
Negotiations are scheduled to resume on October 15th in Baltimore.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
The failure of a GE engine on a Boeing 747 in China is not related to a similar failure in the U.S. according to the DOT.
Industry and Labor
Southern Air, an ACMI cargo carrier operating Boeing 747-400’s and Boeing 777’s, has filed for bankruptcy protection…United Parcel Services' proposed deal to acquire TNT, a Dutch package delivery company, may face more opposition as European antitrust regulators consider stepping in.
Ground workers for American Airlines are the latest group to accept the airlines early out program…US Airways flight attendants have rejected a preliminary five-year contract, the airline says.
AMR, parent company of American Airlines, has filed a financial report with bankruptcy court stating a financial loss of $82 million in August…Cargo airlines, including FedEx and United Parcel Services, are facing drops in revenue this year, due to decreased average package weights and softer demand.
American Airlines has informed its pilots union, the Allied Pilots Association, that it will seek a court injunction against the union if its pilots continue to do what the airline calls interfering with operations.
Faced with the realities of fleet reductions imposed by Delta Airlines as a consequence of their recently amended contract with Delta pilots, Comair Airlines flew their last flight on Saturday.
For years a recognized leader in the commuter industry, later referred to as “regional airlines,” Comair began service with twin engined piston aircraft, later transitioning to turboprops and finally becoming the first operator of jets in the regional industry.
Since the announcement of the impending shutdown; Teamsters Local Union 513, who represents Comair’s flight attendants, has been working to secure severance and other benefits as well as financial and job training assistance for the flight attendants.
Commenting on the shutdown, Local 513 President Elaine Morris said, “We would like to thank the Teamsters for getting industry leading pay and benefits for the Comair Flight Attendant group for the last 10 years. We signed our first contract on July 19, 2002 and the Teamsters have always been there for us, especially during this painful time. It has been a great journey.”
UAL Negotiating Committee Update
Assisted by the generosity of Local 455, its Principal Officer Steve Vairma, Business Agent John Hennelly and the Local committee; the negotiating committee met for over a two week period beginning on September 20th and 21st in Denver, Colorado. The committee spent the two days reviewing and prioritizing each of the articles and proposals suggested by the steering committee.
The committee reconvened September 26th through the 28th in Denver and spent the scheduled meeting time going through the three contracts of CO, UA and MCI to look for and identify any and all differences to each of the contracts in an effort to combine them into one.
The fourteen member committee was broken down into seven sub committees, with each committee was assigned a BA to assist with the review and help resolve questions the sub committees identified. Where differences were identified, recommendations were developed and reported to the entire committee. These recommendations will be reviewed when the committee meets in Chicago starting on October 10th.
The protocol agreement is not yet been completed. A key to that process; the outstanding issues delaying the completion of the protocol agreement; is defining the number of open issues. Once that is done it is expected the protocol will be finalized quickly. The committee is also awaiting dates for official training regarding the NMB expedited bargaining procedures. Dates have been suggested to complete the training and the membership will be notified when the schedule is confirmed.
ExpressJet Discussion continue in Baltimore
Negotiations for ExpressJet this past week brought a tentative agreement on Section 12 - (Field Trips), and continued discussions and exchange of proposals on Section 3 – (Classifications). While the parties are now closer to agreement on this section of the agreement, fundamental differences remain that must be resolved.
Negotiations are scheduled to resume on October 15th in Baltimore.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
The failure of a GE engine on a Boeing 747 in China is not related to a similar failure in the U.S. according to the DOT.
Industry and Labor
Southern Air, an ACMI cargo carrier operating Boeing 747-400’s and Boeing 777’s, has filed for bankruptcy protection…United Parcel Services' proposed deal to acquire TNT, a Dutch package delivery company, may face more opposition as European antitrust regulators consider stepping in.
Ground workers for American Airlines are the latest group to accept the airlines early out program…US Airways flight attendants have rejected a preliminary five-year contract, the airline says.
AMR, parent company of American Airlines, has filed a financial report with bankruptcy court stating a financial loss of $82 million in August…Cargo airlines, including FedEx and United Parcel Services, are facing drops in revenue this year, due to decreased average package weights and softer demand.
American Airlines has informed its pilots union, the Allied Pilots Association, that it will seek a court injunction against the union if its pilots continue to do what the airline calls interfering with operations.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Aviation News Week in Review for September 22, 2012
American Airlines Mechanics Support Growing for Teamster
Representation
The bankruptcy filing by American Airlines last November and other issues, including layoffs and wage and benefit cuts; all done to avert a bankruptcy and that have been piled on top of the previous cuts that occurred in 2003, have led the airlines mechanics to consider changing union affiliation to the Teamsters.
Chris Moore, an International Representative for the Teamsters, said his union is seeing "a lot of enthusiasm." "These American Airlines guys have issues that go back 10 years," Moore said. "They're tired of being beaten over the head. You have to bring order to the place, and work with the company to get things better for the guys. We're gathering momentum."
While AMFA is also attempting to conduct a drive, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters clearly is getting a very positive response. “The one issue that the mechanics see very clearly in this bankruptcy is the absolute need for the backing and support of a union like the Teamsters and expertise the Airline Division,” said Moore. “When you are attempting to protect your careers and your families in a fight with one of the biggest airlines in the world, you need a union with experience and resources like the Teamsters; not one that is in decline and has a history of giving up hard fought for gains like AMFA. You also need the support and resources of the TAMC (Teamsters Aviation Mechanics Coalition) that brings together mechanics from across the airline industry to fight for you on Capitol Hill,” Moore continued.
Commenting on their card drive Moore said, “We are very pleased with our progress to date and look forward to more meetings with the American mechanics, answering questions and explaining the benefits of being a part of the largest airline based union in America.” For a related story, click on the following link:
http://www.newson6.com/story/
CitationAir Pilots Negotiating Continues
Members of the CitationAir Pilots Negotiating Committee met in White Plains, New York on Monday, Sept. 10, 2012 and worked until late in the evening completing their initial proposal for Section 9.
On Tuesday morning, Sept. 11th, the Union and Company representatives worked independently in caucus, with the Negotiating Committee putting the finishing touches on the Section 9 document prior to its presentation to management. The Company presented counter-proposals for an the Letter of Agreement (LOA) concerning Negotiating Protocol, Section 18 (Union Representation), Section 21 (Grievance Procedures), and Section 23 (General Conditions).
The Negotiating Committee developed counter-proposals for Sections 18, 21 & 23 and began work on Section 14 - (Non-Routine Flight Operations (NRFO) and Section 25 (Medical Examinations). Following discussions between the parties concerning these sections, it was mutually agreed to set aside Sections 18 & 23 until a later point in time during the negotiating process.
Tentative agreement (TA) was reached on the Section 21 by the parties and the union presented an initial proposal for Section 14. The Company delivered their initial counter-proposal to Section 11 (Union Security).
Of particular importance for the pilots; the NRFO plows new ground at CitationAir, since there is nothing in the Company FSH that closely mirrors the FAA recommendations regarding the conduct of such special operations. The types of operations covered by the proposal are specific NRFOs requiring specialized training, such as certain maintenance evaluation flights, certain types of ferry flights and aircraft acceptance flights. Presently, CitationAir pilots do not operate NRFO flights requiring the specialized training identified by the FAA. However, in the future these types of NRFOs may become necessary and union intends to be prepared by having contract provisions in place for that possibility.
The negotiators report that the September session represented one of the better weeks negotiating with the Company. They look forward to maintaining the momentum during upcoming bargaining sessions and receiving management’s responses to the numerous un-answered Union proposals.
The next bargaining session is scheduled for November 6-8, 2012.
Airline Industry News
Government and Regulatory
NextGen, which has been under fire from Congress for being behind schedule and over budget, will be implemented at Florida airports in Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Fort Myers, as well as smaller airports in the region, says Michael Huerta, acting administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.
The Federal Aviation Administration has updated its policies regarding inspections for more than 1,600 737 Boeing jets.
The Federal Aviation Administration is under pressure from Congress, the aviation industry and other government agencies to allow civilian unmanned drones access to U.S. air space, but safety and security concerns may cause delays to meeting the deadline.
Airlines and Industry
David Neeleman, founder of JetBlue, has his eyes on what he calls his "next big thing."
American Airlines expects to cancel up to 2% of its flights through October due to fallout from a labor contract dispute with its pilots union, the carrier says.
Delta Air Lines will reduce its fleet size by 15% but maintain its capacity, says Gary Chase, the carrier's senior vice president of financial planning, analysis and investor relations. The airline plans to cut at least 200 regional jets by 2015, which is expected to reduce costs, increase revenue and provide a better customer experience.
Boeing is scheduled to deliver the first Dreamliner 787 made in South Carolina next week to Air India.
The bankruptcy filing by American Airlines last November and other issues, including layoffs and wage and benefit cuts; all done to avert a bankruptcy and that have been piled on top of the previous cuts that occurred in 2003, have led the airlines mechanics to consider changing union affiliation to the Teamsters.
Chris Moore, an International Representative for the Teamsters, said his union is seeing "a lot of enthusiasm." "These American Airlines guys have issues that go back 10 years," Moore said. "They're tired of being beaten over the head. You have to bring order to the place, and work with the company to get things better for the guys. We're gathering momentum."
While AMFA is also attempting to conduct a drive, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters clearly is getting a very positive response. “The one issue that the mechanics see very clearly in this bankruptcy is the absolute need for the backing and support of a union like the Teamsters and expertise the Airline Division,” said Moore. “When you are attempting to protect your careers and your families in a fight with one of the biggest airlines in the world, you need a union with experience and resources like the Teamsters; not one that is in decline and has a history of giving up hard fought for gains like AMFA. You also need the support and resources of the TAMC (Teamsters Aviation Mechanics Coalition) that brings together mechanics from across the airline industry to fight for you on Capitol Hill,” Moore continued.
Commenting on their card drive Moore said, “We are very pleased with our progress to date and look forward to more meetings with the American mechanics, answering questions and explaining the benefits of being a part of the largest airline based union in America.” For a related story, click on the following link:
http://www.newson6.com/story/
CitationAir Pilots Negotiating Continues
Members of the CitationAir Pilots Negotiating Committee met in White Plains, New York on Monday, Sept. 10, 2012 and worked until late in the evening completing their initial proposal for Section 9.
On Tuesday morning, Sept. 11th, the Union and Company representatives worked independently in caucus, with the Negotiating Committee putting the finishing touches on the Section 9 document prior to its presentation to management. The Company presented counter-proposals for an the Letter of Agreement (LOA) concerning Negotiating Protocol, Section 18 (Union Representation), Section 21 (Grievance Procedures), and Section 23 (General Conditions).
The Negotiating Committee developed counter-proposals for Sections 18, 21 & 23 and began work on Section 14 - (Non-Routine Flight Operations (NRFO) and Section 25 (Medical Examinations). Following discussions between the parties concerning these sections, it was mutually agreed to set aside Sections 18 & 23 until a later point in time during the negotiating process.
Tentative agreement (TA) was reached on the Section 21 by the parties and the union presented an initial proposal for Section 14. The Company delivered their initial counter-proposal to Section 11 (Union Security).
Of particular importance for the pilots; the NRFO plows new ground at CitationAir, since there is nothing in the Company FSH that closely mirrors the FAA recommendations regarding the conduct of such special operations. The types of operations covered by the proposal are specific NRFOs requiring specialized training, such as certain maintenance evaluation flights, certain types of ferry flights and aircraft acceptance flights. Presently, CitationAir pilots do not operate NRFO flights requiring the specialized training identified by the FAA. However, in the future these types of NRFOs may become necessary and union intends to be prepared by having contract provisions in place for that possibility.
The negotiators report that the September session represented one of the better weeks negotiating with the Company. They look forward to maintaining the momentum during upcoming bargaining sessions and receiving management’s responses to the numerous un-answered Union proposals.
The next bargaining session is scheduled for November 6-8, 2012.
Airline Industry News
Government and Regulatory
NextGen, which has been under fire from Congress for being behind schedule and over budget, will be implemented at Florida airports in Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Fort Myers, as well as smaller airports in the region, says Michael Huerta, acting administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration.
The Federal Aviation Administration has updated its policies regarding inspections for more than 1,600 737 Boeing jets.
The Federal Aviation Administration is under pressure from Congress, the aviation industry and other government agencies to allow civilian unmanned drones access to U.S. air space, but safety and security concerns may cause delays to meeting the deadline.
Airlines and Industry
David Neeleman, founder of JetBlue, has his eyes on what he calls his "next big thing."
American Airlines expects to cancel up to 2% of its flights through October due to fallout from a labor contract dispute with its pilots union, the carrier says.
Delta Air Lines will reduce its fleet size by 15% but maintain its capacity, says Gary Chase, the carrier's senior vice president of financial planning, analysis and investor relations. The airline plans to cut at least 200 regional jets by 2015, which is expected to reduce costs, increase revenue and provide a better customer experience.
Boeing is scheduled to deliver the first Dreamliner 787 made in South Carolina next week to Air India.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Aviation Week In Review - September 15, 2012
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
Republicans on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee criticized the Federal Aviation Administration on Wednesday for the problems that the Next Generation Air Transportation System is facing.
The House of Representatives on Tuesday passed a measure that would end additional baggage checks on flights from 14 foreign airports. The Transportation Security Administration has said the 14 airports have security levels that meet or exceed U.S.standards.
U.S. government auditors plan to examine a program that allows airlines to self-report safety issues to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Industry and Labor
AMR bankruptcy committee anticipates making a decision regarding the future of American Airlines by the end of the calendar year, according to a note in a document filed in court Friday.
General Electric has completed ultrasound checks of four Boeing 787s, which are powered by a GE engine that failed during ground taxi tests.
AMR, which received court approval Wednesday for revamped contracts with its flight attendants and mechanics, will continue to work on a new contract agreement with its pilots.
Nicholas Calio, the president and CEO of Airlines for America, said the GOP and Democratic national conventions gave "short shrift" to transportation policy.
FedEx and United Parcel Service have received approval from China to begin express-package services in the country.
As speculation over an American Airlines merger with US Airways continues, American's routes to Latin America are receiving greater attention. These routes, dominated by American, could become an area of strength for US Airways if the merger occurs.
Governmental and Regulatory
Republicans on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee criticized the Federal Aviation Administration on Wednesday for the problems that the Next Generation Air Transportation System is facing.
The House of Representatives on Tuesday passed a measure that would end additional baggage checks on flights from 14 foreign airports. The Transportation Security Administration has said the 14 airports have security levels that meet or exceed U.S.standards.
U.S. government auditors plan to examine a program that allows airlines to self-report safety issues to the Federal Aviation Administration.
Industry and Labor
AMR bankruptcy committee anticipates making a decision regarding the future of American Airlines by the end of the calendar year, according to a note in a document filed in court Friday.
General Electric has completed ultrasound checks of four Boeing 787s, which are powered by a GE engine that failed during ground taxi tests.
AMR, which received court approval Wednesday for revamped contracts with its flight attendants and mechanics, will continue to work on a new contract agreement with its pilots.
Nicholas Calio, the president and CEO of Airlines for America, said the GOP and Democratic national conventions gave "short shrift" to transportation policy.
FedEx and United Parcel Service have received approval from China to begin express-package services in the country.
As speculation over an American Airlines merger with US Airways continues, American's routes to Latin America are receiving greater attention. These routes, dominated by American, could become an area of strength for US Airways if the merger occurs.
Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Parties Have Discussion with NMB
On Thursday August 30th, the parties met with National Mediation Board member Linda Puchala and Senior Mediator Pat Sims. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the process for moving forward with expedited negotiations. Among the items discussed were the protocol agreement and training for the negotiating committee.
Board Member Puchala emphasized the importance of tailoring the protocol agreement to fit the unique needs of the parties. Both Board member Puchala and Mediator Sims suggested the negotiating team receive training in the new process developed by the NMB. The new process is built on interest based bargaining and is designed to swiftly identify and resolve issues. Finally Board Member Puchala committed the resources of the NMB to ensure the parties successfully conclude negotiations.
The parties are expected to meet in the coming weeks to finalize the protocol agreement. Training will occur in the same time frame. An update will be provided to the membership after the finalization of the protocol agreement in the same manner as previous notifications.
In attendance for the Airline Division were attorney Ed Gleason, Airline Division Assistant Director Steven Nagrotsky and International Representatives Paul Alves and Bob Fisher. Attending on behalf of the company were Mike Bonds and Doug McKeen.
Expedited Negotiations
Expedited Negotiations under the NMB were developed after years of criticism for the lengthy and often time’s very slow process of traditional negotiations. The prolonged procedure forced the NMB to create a new avenue to accelerate the bargaining process.
One of the first steps in an expedited negotiation course of action is the Protocol Agreement. This is the agreement that will set ground rules and establish expectations and guide the expedited mediation process for our case. Items discussed can be meeting places and venues, as well as the frequency and daily schedules. The protocol agreement could also include the manner of discussing each issue, such as sub committees, or how communications are presented to the membership. The protocol agreement is simply an arrangement of the process that will be used to help in obtaining a speedy conclusion to reach a CBA. The parties each commit in advance to discuss and agree to the protocols and abide by them.
Meet the Negotiating Committee
The upcoming talks with the company to combine the two agreements in to an amalgamated CBA will be
comprised of 13 members. The Joint Rank and File Negotiating Committee will be made up of the following members.
• Bob Clever - IAH
• Michael Nerren - IAH
• Vinny Graziano - EWR
• Steve Olsen - EWR
• Paul Becerra - MCO
• Mike Moats - CLE
• Jay Koreny - IAD
• Mitch Hunt - DEN
• Mike Pecoraro - ORD
• Mark DesAngeles- SFO
• Joe Prisco - SFO
• Anthony Ybarra - LAX
• John Pangelian - GUM
Assisting this committee will be Business Agents Rudy Gonzalez, Francis Diaz, Dave Elmore, Javier Lectora, Rich Petrovsky, Dave Saucedo, John Hennelly, George Graham, Angel Cantu, Dominic Fierro, Tommy Esposito, Ralph Salzano, and Charlie Alferio.
Overseeing the process for the Airline Division will be Clacy Griswold, Paul Alves, Bob Fisher, and Legal Council Ed Gleason.
New Structure for SFO
Facilities Maintenance, also known as Trade Group 128 is providing some much needed solid support to the aircraft technicians in SFO. The project is to create and build a large motor driven working platform assembly that will facilitate the maintenance or replacement of flight deck windshields on Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft.
The SFO Facilities Maintenance Department commonly takes on large projects of this caliber and depends on cooperation from its different tradesmen to complete the task at hand. This particular build requires the talents of the in house engineer to design the platform, the weld shop to take the metal and fabricate it in to a safe working structure, and the hydraulic/mechanical shop to assemble the drive motors and drive shafts that will move this oversized metal workstation. This last shop also employees a certified crane operator who is instrumental in the construction of a stand of this size. When complete, the paint shop will do the prep and paint and the electricians will wire the whole thing up.
This is just one example of the many unsung maintenance personnel working at various stations and hubs throughout the new UAL organization. These support departments which also include some aircraft maintenance groups, are all too often undervalued and as a result under compensated for the significance they add to the airline. We are happy to recognize them and appreciate the work they do as well as the safety features they create for the aircraft maintenance technicians.
Furloughed members urged to update their addresses.
Members on furlough are advised to keep their addresses current with the company while on layoff. It is
predicted that there will be many movements this year and there have been several members that have been removed from the seniority list because old addresses were on file when notices were sent.
If you are in touch with a furloughed member, please forward this information to them. Updates may be emailed to: ESC@united.com . The ESC will provide a fax number and ask members to send the address change accompanied with a signature.
Useful links
If you would like to see a link added to this list please contact Bob Fisher at: rcfisher7@yahoo.com
Airline Mechanics Forum Airline Mechanics forum (This is a good place to discuss merger related items)
WCTPP - http://www.wctpension.org/
The following Locals represent these respective cities:
Boston Local 25
New York & Washington Local 210
Charleston & Atlanta Local 528
Miami & Orlando Local 769
Cleveland Local 964
Chicago Local 781
Houston, Dallas & New Orleans Local 19
Phoenix Local 104
Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, Hawaii & Guam Local 986
San Francisco Local 856/986
Denver Local 455
On Thursday August 30th, the parties met with National Mediation Board member Linda Puchala and Senior Mediator Pat Sims. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the process for moving forward with expedited negotiations. Among the items discussed were the protocol agreement and training for the negotiating committee.
Board Member Puchala emphasized the importance of tailoring the protocol agreement to fit the unique needs of the parties. Both Board member Puchala and Mediator Sims suggested the negotiating team receive training in the new process developed by the NMB. The new process is built on interest based bargaining and is designed to swiftly identify and resolve issues. Finally Board Member Puchala committed the resources of the NMB to ensure the parties successfully conclude negotiations.
The parties are expected to meet in the coming weeks to finalize the protocol agreement. Training will occur in the same time frame. An update will be provided to the membership after the finalization of the protocol agreement in the same manner as previous notifications.
In attendance for the Airline Division were attorney Ed Gleason, Airline Division Assistant Director Steven Nagrotsky and International Representatives Paul Alves and Bob Fisher. Attending on behalf of the company were Mike Bonds and Doug McKeen.
Expedited Negotiations
Expedited Negotiations under the NMB were developed after years of criticism for the lengthy and often time’s very slow process of traditional negotiations. The prolonged procedure forced the NMB to create a new avenue to accelerate the bargaining process.
One of the first steps in an expedited negotiation course of action is the Protocol Agreement. This is the agreement that will set ground rules and establish expectations and guide the expedited mediation process for our case. Items discussed can be meeting places and venues, as well as the frequency and daily schedules. The protocol agreement could also include the manner of discussing each issue, such as sub committees, or how communications are presented to the membership. The protocol agreement is simply an arrangement of the process that will be used to help in obtaining a speedy conclusion to reach a CBA. The parties each commit in advance to discuss and agree to the protocols and abide by them.
Meet the Negotiating Committee
The upcoming talks with the company to combine the two agreements in to an amalgamated CBA will be
comprised of 13 members. The Joint Rank and File Negotiating Committee will be made up of the following members.
• Bob Clever - IAH
• Michael Nerren - IAH
• Vinny Graziano - EWR
• Steve Olsen - EWR
• Paul Becerra - MCO
• Mike Moats - CLE
• Jay Koreny - IAD
• Mitch Hunt - DEN
• Mike Pecoraro - ORD
• Mark DesAngeles- SFO
• Joe Prisco - SFO
• Anthony Ybarra - LAX
• John Pangelian - GUM
Assisting this committee will be Business Agents Rudy Gonzalez, Francis Diaz, Dave Elmore, Javier Lectora, Rich Petrovsky, Dave Saucedo, John Hennelly, George Graham, Angel Cantu, Dominic Fierro, Tommy Esposito, Ralph Salzano, and Charlie Alferio.
Overseeing the process for the Airline Division will be Clacy Griswold, Paul Alves, Bob Fisher, and Legal Council Ed Gleason.
New Structure for SFO
Facilities Maintenance, also known as Trade Group 128 is providing some much needed solid support to the aircraft technicians in SFO. The project is to create and build a large motor driven working platform assembly that will facilitate the maintenance or replacement of flight deck windshields on Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft.
The SFO Facilities Maintenance Department commonly takes on large projects of this caliber and depends on cooperation from its different tradesmen to complete the task at hand. This particular build requires the talents of the in house engineer to design the platform, the weld shop to take the metal and fabricate it in to a safe working structure, and the hydraulic/mechanical shop to assemble the drive motors and drive shafts that will move this oversized metal workstation. This last shop also employees a certified crane operator who is instrumental in the construction of a stand of this size. When complete, the paint shop will do the prep and paint and the electricians will wire the whole thing up.
This is just one example of the many unsung maintenance personnel working at various stations and hubs throughout the new UAL organization. These support departments which also include some aircraft maintenance groups, are all too often undervalued and as a result under compensated for the significance they add to the airline. We are happy to recognize them and appreciate the work they do as well as the safety features they create for the aircraft maintenance technicians.
Furloughed members urged to update their addresses.
Members on furlough are advised to keep their addresses current with the company while on layoff. It is
predicted that there will be many movements this year and there have been several members that have been removed from the seniority list because old addresses were on file when notices were sent.
If you are in touch with a furloughed member, please forward this information to them. Updates may be emailed to: ESC@united.com . The ESC will provide a fax number and ask members to send the address change accompanied with a signature.
Useful links
If you would like to see a link added to this list please contact Bob Fisher at: rcfisher7@yahoo.com
Airline Mechanics Forum Airline Mechanics forum (This is a good place to discuss merger related items)
WCTPP - http://www.wctpension.org/
The following Locals represent these respective cities:
Boston Local 25
New York & Washington Local 210
Charleston & Atlanta Local 528
Miami & Orlando Local 769
Cleveland Local 964
Chicago Local 781
Houston, Dallas & New Orleans Local 19
Phoenix Local 104
Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, Hawaii & Guam Local 986
San Francisco Local 856/986
Denver Local 455
Monday, September 10, 2012
Airline Week In Review September 9, 2012
Teamster Women’s Conference 2012 a Success
The 2012 Teamster Women Conference was held the week of August 23rd in San Francisco. The conference provided a great opportunity to meet and network with Teamster women from all over the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. It was also a great opportunity for the attendees to hear from nationally prominent speakers including the Director of the Teamster’s Women Conference Sue Mauren, Senator Barbara Boxer of California, and Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom of California and San Francisco’s female Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White.
Keynote speeches were given by Teamster General President Hoffa and Teamster Secretary-Treasurer Ken Hall.
Several workshops were offered to the attendees as well. Among the attendees was Cape Air ExCo Chairman Captain Marilyn Rhude. Commenting on the conference, Captain Rhude said “The workshops offered were both informative and interesting. One that was especially well received was entitled: ‘Looking Back: Teamster Women’s DRIVE Motorcades: A Powerful tool for Change,’ by Karin Jones of the IBT Training and Development Department.”
The overall theme for the conference was how vitally important it is to vote in the upcoming presidential election and how much is at stake for unions.
“This conference was an excellent opportunity to see and hear firsthand the positive impact that membership in the Teamsters has made for so many working women,” said Rhude. “I made friends that I am certain will last a lifetime and look forward to attending next year.”
Atlas / Polar Flight Dispatcher Negotiations Continue
With the latest round of negotiations now complete with the company, continued progress brings them closer to agreement in all areas for the flight dispatchers’ first contract.
The recent session brought a tentative agreement on Article 17 (General), leaving only Article 1 (Recognition and Scope), Article 3 (Compensation), and Article 2 Definitions) remaining.
Several proposals on each of the remaining Articles were exchanged and significant progress bringing them much closer to being able to find agreement in each of these areas was reported.
The parties will meet for five days in October and expect that these meetings will result in an agreement in the remaining open areas of the contract, enabling the union to prepare it for presentation to all members to prepare for ratification.
In a communication to the membership, the Negotiating Committee said, “This has been a difficult and long process. We should all be proud of the level of patience and professionalism we have all displayed during this long process. We have seen through this process that we were correct to partner with the IBT. We share the same vision; we want to continue to contribute to our company’s success and share the reward.”
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
A key NextGen effort is on schedule for 2014, according to the FAA…
Industry and Labor
American Airlines and its pilots union have not yet scheduled talks over changes to their collective bargaining agreement.
Aeromexico and Delta Air Lines have signed a memo of understanding to construct a joint facility in Mexico for maintenance, repair and operations, which will be able to service seven aircraft simultaneously.
IAG, the parent company of British Airways and Iberia, is considering buying a stake in American Airlines.
The platform adopted by the Republican Party last week calls for sweeping changes to airport security, including the privatization of security.
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The 2012 Teamster Women Conference was held the week of August 23rd in San Francisco. The conference provided a great opportunity to meet and network with Teamster women from all over the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. It was also a great opportunity for the attendees to hear from nationally prominent speakers including the Director of the Teamster’s Women Conference Sue Mauren, Senator Barbara Boxer of California, and Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom of California and San Francisco’s female Fire Chief Joanne Hayes-White.
Keynote speeches were given by Teamster General President Hoffa and Teamster Secretary-Treasurer Ken Hall.
Several workshops were offered to the attendees as well. Among the attendees was Cape Air ExCo Chairman Captain Marilyn Rhude. Commenting on the conference, Captain Rhude said “The workshops offered were both informative and interesting. One that was especially well received was entitled: ‘Looking Back: Teamster Women’s DRIVE Motorcades: A Powerful tool for Change,’ by Karin Jones of the IBT Training and Development Department.”
The overall theme for the conference was how vitally important it is to vote in the upcoming presidential election and how much is at stake for unions.
“This conference was an excellent opportunity to see and hear firsthand the positive impact that membership in the Teamsters has made for so many working women,” said Rhude. “I made friends that I am certain will last a lifetime and look forward to attending next year.”
Atlas / Polar Flight Dispatcher Negotiations Continue
With the latest round of negotiations now complete with the company, continued progress brings them closer to agreement in all areas for the flight dispatchers’ first contract.
The recent session brought a tentative agreement on Article 17 (General), leaving only Article 1 (Recognition and Scope), Article 3 (Compensation), and Article 2 Definitions) remaining.
Several proposals on each of the remaining Articles were exchanged and significant progress bringing them much closer to being able to find agreement in each of these areas was reported.
The parties will meet for five days in October and expect that these meetings will result in an agreement in the remaining open areas of the contract, enabling the union to prepare it for presentation to all members to prepare for ratification.
In a communication to the membership, the Negotiating Committee said, “This has been a difficult and long process. We should all be proud of the level of patience and professionalism we have all displayed during this long process. We have seen through this process that we were correct to partner with the IBT. We share the same vision; we want to continue to contribute to our company’s success and share the reward.”
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
A key NextGen effort is on schedule for 2014, according to the FAA…
Industry and Labor
American Airlines and its pilots union have not yet scheduled talks over changes to their collective bargaining agreement.
Aeromexico and Delta Air Lines have signed a memo of understanding to construct a joint facility in Mexico for maintenance, repair and operations, which will be able to service seven aircraft simultaneously.
IAG, the parent company of British Airways and Iberia, is considering buying a stake in American Airlines.
The platform adopted by the Republican Party last week calls for sweeping changes to airport security, including the privatization of security.
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