Monday, November 25, 2013
Informational Picketing
Informational picketing is happening across the United network. click here to see pictures and video.
Mediator Assigned To United Negotiations
The IBT announced Friday that Gerry McGuckin was assigned as mediator for the amalgamated contract negotiations. Gerry McGuckin joined the National Mediation Board as a Mediator in September, 2007. He serves the Board in airline and railroad cases, including Grievance Mediation cases.
Prior to joining the NMB, Gerry completed a career as a commercial airline pilot for a number of major airlines, retiring in October 2006 from US Airways. During his twenty nine year airline career, he gained extensive labor relations experience, including merger committee co-chairman for the PeoplExpress pilots, elected representative on the ALPA Master Executive Council for both Braniff International Airways and US Airways, and ALPA chief negotiator and negotiator for over twelve years at US Airways which involved crafting labor agreements for over six thousand pilots.
Gerry’s military career with the United States Air Force and Air Force Reserve spanned over twenty seven years. Initially serving as crew chief on the F-86 F aircraft, he retired in 1998, as a Lt. Col., Flight Commander, having flown the C-141 aircraft for twenty three years.
Gerry is a graduate of the City College of New York with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology; he also holds a Master’s degree in Business Management, emphasizing labor relations studies, from Central Michigan University.
Although a mediator has been assigned, there hasn't been a date set to resume talks.
Prior to joining the NMB, Gerry completed a career as a commercial airline pilot for a number of major airlines, retiring in October 2006 from US Airways. During his twenty nine year airline career, he gained extensive labor relations experience, including merger committee co-chairman for the PeoplExpress pilots, elected representative on the ALPA Master Executive Council for both Braniff International Airways and US Airways, and ALPA chief negotiator and negotiator for over twelve years at US Airways which involved crafting labor agreements for over six thousand pilots.
Gerry’s military career with the United States Air Force and Air Force Reserve spanned over twenty seven years. Initially serving as crew chief on the F-86 F aircraft, he retired in 1998, as a Lt. Col., Flight Commander, having flown the C-141 aircraft for twenty three years.
Gerry is a graduate of the City College of New York with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology; he also holds a Master’s degree in Business Management, emphasizing labor relations studies, from Central Michigan University.
Although a mediator has been assigned, there hasn't been a date set to resume talks.
Friday, November 15, 2013
Special Mechanics Dispatch - November 14, 2013
UAL Mechanics Special Update November 14, 2013
Yesterday the leadership of the IBT informed the company that the resource utilization letter has terminated. This was done at 2pm EST via conference which was held over the phone. The company leadership disagreed with the union's position and requested the matter be resolved using the expedited arbitration process. The parties are now in the process of scheduling this hearing. While the arbitration process unfolds members are advised to file grievances when assigned to tasks that violate the integration of maintenance operations. All members are advised to perform assigned tasks and grieve when the task is complete. Do not become a target for discipline by refusing an order to do this work. Copies of the letter requesting conference to terminate the letter and the company's response can be found here:
Letter to Doug McKeen
Company's Response
Yesterday the leadership of the IBT informed the company that the resource utilization letter has terminated. This was done at 2pm EST via conference which was held over the phone. The company leadership disagreed with the union's position and requested the matter be resolved using the expedited arbitration process. The parties are now in the process of scheduling this hearing. While the arbitration process unfolds members are advised to file grievances when assigned to tasks that violate the integration of maintenance operations. All members are advised to perform assigned tasks and grieve when the task is complete. Do not become a target for discipline by refusing an order to do this work. Copies of the letter requesting conference to terminate the letter and the company's response can be found here:
Letter to Doug McKeen
Company's Response
Tuesday, November 12, 2013
Airline Division Week In Review - November 9, 2013
ExpressJet Negotiations Impacted by Government Shutdown
The government shutdown caused the October dates to be cancelled. Negotiations resumed this past week with the Federal Mediator in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
The parties continued where they had left off on Section 22 – (General and Miscellaneous), with the sides having direct meetings and discussions of the outstanding issues, with both sides passing proposals on this section.
While the discussions were fruitful, the parties were unable to reach a tentative agreement on the section during the session.
Negotiations are scheduled to resume in January.
UAL Discussions on Hold as Company Announces Intent to File for Mediation
Negotiations in an attempt to finalize the joint CBA with UAL management continued in Chicago this past week with the company presenting a comprehensive proposal early in the week that the union rejected after a thorough review which led the committee to determine it would be concessionary for many members.
Thursday evening, the union gave its comprehensive final proposal to the company. It did so after working shoulder-to-shoulder with its financial, legal and actuarial experts to develop a contract that meets the members’ needs while satisfying the company’s objectives. In less than a half an hour, the Company rejected the Union’s proposal and stated that the proposal was significantly more expensive than it could afford. The Company also advised the union that it intended to apply for formal NMB mediation.
The Company’s filing this evening brings an end to 10-months of intense, direct negotiations facilitated by the NMB under a special process that the Company had asked the Union and the NMB to participate in. The purpose of the facilitated process was for securing a mutually agreed upon collective bargaining agreement on an expedited basis.
“While the committee is deeply disappointed at the outcome, it was our hope to reach a consensual agreement through direct negotiations. We remain ready to meet at any time and at any place to finalize this agreement in a manner that will best reward the membership for its hard work,” said Division Representative Bob Fisher.
“The NMB worked tirelessly with both the Union and the Company to reach such an agreement. NMB Representatives who have worked with the parties throughout direct negotiations have committed to continue working with the parties while in formal mediation and have expressed their hope that a mutually satisfactory agreement can be reached,” said Division Director David Bourne.
In a message to the membership, the committee reminded the membership that the only official source of negotiations information will be from the negotiating committee, the Division or their Local Representatives, urging them not fall victim to rumors.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
The Justice Department said it is willing to settle its antitrust lawsuit over the proposed merger between US Airways and American Airlines. However, the government is asking for the carriers to divest valuable slots at Reagan National.
The Federal Aviation Administration issued an overhaul of flight training requirements on Tuesday. "This rule will give our pilots the most advanced training available to handle emergencies they may encounter," FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said.
The Federal Aviation Administration said the implementation of NextGen is vulnerable to the political nature of its funding. "We remain committed to NextGen in its current schedule, but we need greater fiscal certainty this year and beyond," said FAA Deputy Administrator Michael Whitaker.
Airlines, Industry and Labor
Airport executives are speaking out in opposition to the Transportation Security Administration's plan to abdicate its responsibility for staffing passenger exit lanes. "It's no secret that the airport community and the aviation community at large has some grave concerns about the approach and policy that TSA is taking on this," said Carter Morris, the senior vice president for security policy at the American Association of Airport Executives.
Tammy Romo, CFO for Southwest Airlines, said the government shutdown is expected to cost the carrier up to $25 million in lost revenue for November. Southwest suffered a similar revenue loss last month from the shutdown, Romo said.
Indigo Partners has a tentative deal with pilots but not the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA. The company plans to go ahead with its acquisition of Frontier Airlines, and will waive the clause about reaching a deal with the flight attendants' union.
Boeing reached a tentative deal with its machinist union on Tuesday over production of the 777X in Washington state. A letter of understanding between the two parties says that Boeing "agrees to locate the 777X wing fabrication and assembly, and final assembly of the 777X in Puget Sound" if the deal is ratified by a union vote on Nov. 13.
Today, in honor of Armistice Day; “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month” of 1918; what we now call Veterans Day, the offices of the Airline Division will be closed.
We hope that you will join us as we each offer a moment of remembrance for the veterans, past and present for their selfless dedication to our nation. We will re-open for regular business on Tuesday, November 12th.
Negotiations Update For November 8, 2013
Mechanics Dispatch - Negotiations Update November 7, 2013
The committee met this week in an attempt to finalize the joint CBA. The company presented a comprehensive proposal early in the week that the union rejected.
Tonight the union gave its comprehensive final proposal to the company. It did so after working shoulder-to-shoulder with its financial, legal and actuarial experts to develop a contract that meets the members’ needs while satisfying the company’s objectives. In less than a half an hour, the Company rejected the Union’s proposal and stated that the proposal was significantly more expensive than it could afford. The Company also advised that it will apply for formal NMB mediation tonight. The Company’s filing this evening will bring to an end 10-months of intense, direct negotiations facilitated by the NMB under a special process that the Company had asked the Union and the NMB to participate in. The purpose of the facilitated process was for securing a mutually agreed upon collective bargaining agreement on an expedited basis. The company also informed the committee this evening that they would be filing for mediation.
The committee is deeply disappointed at the outcome, as it was our hope to reach a consensual agreement through direct negotiations. We remain ready to meet at any time and at any place to finalize this agreement in a manner that will best reward the membership for its hard work.
The NMB worked tirelessly with both the Union and the Company to reach such an agreement. NMB Representatives who have worked with the parties throughout direct negotiations have committed to continue working with the parties while in formal mediation and have expressed their hope that a mutually satisfactory agreement can be reached.
The committee would like to remind the membership that the only official source of negotiations information will be from the negotiating committee, the Division or your Local Representatives. Please do not fall victim to rumors and stay tuned for further updates.
What follows is Cheiron's (the IBT's third party actuaries for Health and Welfare issues) report highlighting two groups as a sample base. The 12 and 20 year technician at both subsidiaries. The Company's posted proposal revealing a all in wage rate of $40.85 would be for a technician with 30 or more years (approx. 3-4% of our membership).
The report details how that hourly wage quickly deteriorates when taking into account the rest of the Company's proposal (longevity scale, step increase scale, increase in medical costs to sUAL, elimination of lifetime recall, elimination of bridge retiree, elimination of line pay for a large group not working on the line, etc.).
While some employees would be realizing a minimal increase to their wage rates many would be realizing decreases to their wage rates under the carriers proposal.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
Airline Division Week In Review For October 28, 2013
UAL Negotiations Update
The parties will reconvene on November 4th in Chicago in an attempt to finalize the joint collective bargaining agreement. The parties will be assisted by Senior Mediator Pat Sims and Mediator Michael Kelleher from the NMB.
On Friday, an et al., (“and others”) benefits grievance was filed by the union regarding the unilateral changes imposed by the company. Chief Stewards and the Business Agent will have a copy for members to review and it will be posted electronically.
NetJets Technicians and Related Discussions
Prior to a scheduled meeting with the company, the Negotiating Committee met on October 22ndand 23rd to discuss and work on proposals for Articles 7- (Union Representation), 8 – (Grievance Procedure) and 9 – (Arbitration).
Discussions between the NetJets Negotiating Committee and Company continued on October 24th. The negotiating session focused on Article 7 – (Union Representation), 12 – (Jury Duty), 13 – (Funeral Leave), 16 – (Holidays), 23 – (Moving Expenses), 25 – (Sick Leave), and 35 – (Tuition Assistance).
The Union made a proposal on Article 23 – (Moving Expenses). The Company made counter proposals on Articles 12, 13 and 35 and provided opening proposals on Articles 7, 16 and 25, and after discussion the parties reached a Tentative Agreement on Article 23 – (Moving Expenses).
The Union and the Company are currently discussing dates for the next round of talks.
Captain Charles “Butch” Downs Passes Away. “He will be sorely missed,” says ExCo Chairman
Captain Charles Henry ‘Butch’ Downs, 69, formerly a pilot for Cape Air (Local 1224) passed away peacefully Saturday, October 19, 2013 at the Martha’s Vineyard Hospital.
A Martha’s Vineyard native, he was born in Oak Bluffs and raised in Edgartown, Massachusetts. He dedicated his life to being a pilot, having been taught to fly at the age of 13. At 16, he enlisted in the Air Force and served two tours of duty as a Ranch-Hand in the Vietnam War. An honored veteran; his C-123, “Patches,” holds the distinction of being the second most shot at airplane during the Viet Nam war - currently sits at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton, Ohio.
The love of flying stayed with him after his service. He had a long and varied flying career that led him around the world and culminated in nearly two decades as a pilot for Edgartown Air, which later became Cape Air. He often told his son that his favorite thing about flying was watching the sun rise and set from thousands of feet above the earth.
Butch was also integral to many aspects of the Island. He worked as an AB for the Steamship Authority, had a (very brief) career as Duke’s County Deputy Sheriff, was past commander of the VFW, and was a pioneer in swordfish spotting – his fishing buddies always appreciated his expert eye in the sky from his Piper Cub. He also played the guitar and banjo, and loved the natural beauty and history of the Island. He has amassed a vast collection of found native artifacts including his prized Woolly mammoth’s tooth.
Those who knew him all agreed that he was a rare mixture of true husband, father, son, brother and friend. He wouldn’t hesitate to give you a piece of his mind – but he would also be the first person to give you the shirt off his back.
“Butch was the best,” said Cape Air ExCo Chairman Marilyn Rhude. “He was a tremendous pilot and a great friend to everyone who had the fortune to know him and he had a wicked sense of humor that was legendary. His passing leaves a great void in the Cape Air family that won’t be easily filled. He will be sorely missed,” she concluded.
Captain Downs is survived by his loving family and would have celebrated his thirty-first wedding anniversary with his wife Carolyn on October 28th. He was a caring father to his son, Captain Andy Downs and his daughter-in-law, Valerie. He was also a loving, loyal and devoted ‘big’ brother to John Downs and his wife, Kathleen as well as a proud uncle and great-uncle.
His graveside service with full military honors was held on Wednesday, October 23rd.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
The government shutdown was "extraordinarily disruptive" to aviation safety, the FAA's chief said Thursday.
The Federal Aviation Administration said the government shutdown has delayed new rules for use of passenger electronic devices. FAA Administrator Michael Huerta said the agency will focus on safety issues first before turning its attention to expanding the use of electronic devices during flights.
Mayors of six major cities have written a letter to the Department of Justice asking the agency to drop its antitrust lawsuit against a proposed merger between US Airways and American Airlines. "We support the merger of American and US Airways because it is based on growth which benefits consumers and our communities," the letter said.
Airlines, Labor and Industry
Analysts predict a rosy future for U.S. airline earnings as airlines keep a close eye on capacity and fly more fuel-efficient planes. "The airlines are poised to show a good year overall for 2013," said Henry Harteveldt, a travel analyst.
Twenty-six chambers of commerce, from U.S. cities as well as states, have sent the Justice Department a letter urging the agency to settle over the proposed US Airways-American Airlines merger.
Airbus has not booked and orders for its A380 this year, and is considering trimming production, but will keep the design of the jumbo jet.
National Mediation Board rules require the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association to wait one year before attempting to organize American Airlines mechanics.
The upcoming expiration of the Wright Amendment could spark an airfare war in Texas.
|
alt="header image" />Mechanics Dispatch For October 28, 2013
Benefits Grievance Update
On Friday, an et al (“and others”) benefits grievance was filed in regards to the unilateral changes imposed by the company. A copy of this grievance will soon be posted on line, until that happens, your chief steward or business agent will have a copy for your review.
On Friday, an et al (“and others”) benefits grievance was filed in regards to the unilateral changes imposed by the company. A copy of this grievance will soon be posted on line, until that happens, your chief steward or business agent will have a copy for your review.
Business Agent and Chief Steward Training
The Division will be scheduling a training class for Business Agents and Chief Stewards who present grievances at the joint/system board level. The class will be a refresher course for most, but will provide valuable information to those new to the process. The focus of the class will be on the preparation and presentation techniques required to be successful at this step of the grievance process.
The Division will be scheduling a training class for Business Agents and Chief Stewards who present grievances at the joint/system board level. The class will be a refresher course for most, but will provide valuable information to those new to the process. The focus of the class will be on the preparation and presentation techniques required to be successful at this step of the grievance process.
Negotiations Update
The parties will reconvene on November 4th in Chicago in an attempt to finalize the joint collective bargaining agreement. The parties will be assisted by Senior Mediator Pat Sims and Mediator Michael Kelleher from the NMB.
The parties will reconvene on November 4th in Chicago in an attempt to finalize the joint collective bargaining agreement. The parties will be assisted by Senior Mediator Pat Sims and Mediator Michael Kelleher from the NMB.
Monday, October 14, 2013
Negotiations Update for October 14, 2013
Negotiations resumed the week of October 7th with the company in Phoenix, Arizona. Both parties engaged in an effort to narrow issues in order to reach a Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA).
The week began with a presentation from United on the highlights of the TA for IAM represented employees, brief preparations of the committee by representatives of the Airline Division, and an article by article review of open items. An overview of benefits information was given by Gaelle Gavotte of Cheiron, who represents the actuary, and established a baseline for continued talks regarding benefits including medical, dental , vision care, flexible spending accounts (FSA), and healthcare spending accounts (HSA, VEBA). The committee was also briefed on United’s current financial situation as it relates to the industry at large and competitors by the group’s financial analyst Dan Akins.
Members from the ranks of the Flight Simulator Technicians and Engineering Groups on sCO and sUA discussed their integration into our agreement. The union committee was given a presentation by the FST’s regarding the supplemental changes needed to integrate these groups into the mechanic’s agreement. Recently, NMB ruled that the FST group is a standalone craft and class and an election was held where the two subsidiary groups chose the IBT as their representative. The sUA group has been a part of the agreement since the 1969 agreement.
Negotiations continued through the week with progress being made to close out several articles with open items from the previous round of talks. The committee will next meet with United in Chicago for the week of November 4th to continue negotiations.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
Airline Division Week In Review - September 28, 2013
Preparation Begins for Next Round of UAL Negotiations
Union bargaining committee members convened at Local 19’s union hall in Houston this past week to discuss strategy as they prepare to meet with United Airlines in negotiations on October 7th.
The negotiators received a briefing from Attorney Ed Gleason on Scope and open Article One items, and were also given a presentation by Ms. Gaelle Gravot, an actuary from Cheiron, on benefit issues. She also discussed the unilateral changes to medical benefits by United as well as the Affordable Care Act (ACA), how it affects current and future medical plans as well as a strategy for negotiating a comprehensive benefits package for members.
Other topics discussed included grievance activity for scope violations regarding the APU teams on the ramp side and how they affect negotiating strategy, COLA, and issues surrounding United’s wish to implement the use of the Utility Specialist Classification; especially in the Facilities Maintenance and GSE classifications. Local 210 Business Agent Ralph Salzano briefed the committee on the current status of proposals made previously to the carrier and gave a comprehensive overview of items that have been agreed to in principal, and open items in each article that require resolution during the coming round of talks.
The team will convene on October 7th in Phoenix, Arizona for their first face to face discussions with United since early June. In an update to their members, the Committee also extended their thanks and gratitude to Local 19 Principal Officer Bob Clever as well as the Officers and staff for their hospitality and the use of their facilities for the meetings throughout the week.
UAL APU Burn Team Grievance
In preparation for an expected arbitration case regarding the APU Burn Team a fill in form has been created. This form will collect relevant data in regards to ramp/fleet service personnel performing the work of mechanics in violation of the scope of the agreement. Here is a link to the form:
Members input is extremely important and the union has requested that anyone with questions about this grievance or the form please contact their chief steward.
NetJets Technicians and Related
The NetJets Negotiating Committee and Company negotiators continued discussions on September 25th. The session consisted of discussions surrounding Article 8 - (Grievance Procedure), 9 – (Board of Arbitration), 12 – (Jury Duty), 13 – (Funeral Leave), 18 – (401K), 19 – (Safety and Health), 23 – (Moving Expenses), 34 – (Prisoner and Hostage) and 35 – (Tuition Assistance).
The Company made counter proposals on Articles 8, 9, 12, 13, 23, and provided and opening proposal on Article 18 – (401K); with the union countering on Articles 12, 13, and 23.
Tentative Agreements were reached on, Articles 19 – (Safety and Health) and 34 – (Prisoner and Hostage).
The committee also met on September 24th and 26th work on Article 32 – (Hours of Service) and 8 – (Grievance Procedure). The parties are in discussions on setting dates for the next round of talks.
Piedmont Negotiations Update
Piedmont Negotiations Update
Negotiations resumed on Monday, September 23rd and concluded on Thursday, September 26th. The discussions and proposals passed were on Compensation and Benefits.
Both sides passed proposals and a great deal of time was spent examining the impact and true costs and effects of the proposals to the membership.
Negotiations will resume on October 28th.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
Some stakeholders are having discussions on privatizing air-traffic control functions because of recent budget cuts and concerns over funding NextGen, according to the General Accountability Office.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has extended Lockheed Martin’s contract to enhance air traffic management technology that enables safe and efficient travel within US-controlled airspace over the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
The U.S. Justice Department said American Airlines and US Airways should not see documents on the agency's internal analysis of previously approved airline mergers.
Airlines, Labor and Industry
Boeing on Friday issued layoff notices to 447 employees across the company, 266 of them in Western Washington.
Boeing Co. said it's introducing a suite of mobile applications for the iPad to help airplane maintenance technicians with their jobs.
Monday, August 5, 2013
Mechanics Dispatch August 3, 2013
The steering committee reconvened in Chicago on Wednesday July 31st and Thursday August 1st in Chicago to discuss options surrounding the negotiations with United Airlines.
On Wednesday the committee received several presentations on the status of bargaining when the parties last met in May.
Clacy Griswold, Airline Division Rep and Chief Negotiator, opened the session and explained to the group all that had transpired since the committee met last August.
Local 210 Business Agent Ralph Salzano went through article by article all of the non-economic items that were agreed to during the facilitated process. This was followed by a presentation by Peter Hardcastle, of Cheiron, on the VDB (Variable Defined Benefit) pension discussions. He was followed by John Colberg and Jim Holland; both from Cheiron, who gave a presentation on the health and welfare discussions. Dan Akins, economist from Akins and Associates then gave a presentation of the overall economic issues that the negotiating committee both has and will be dealing with.
At the end of each presentation there were question and answer periods for the committee so that they could clearly understand what was being discussed. One of the items that generated much discussion during the health and welfare discussions was the VEBA program. This program is a tax free account used to offset different medical costs. This account can be carried with the employee through retirement and then willed to surviving dependents. More information about this program will be available in the coming months.
Close to the end of the session on Wednesday Clacy received word that the company would like to meet with the IBT leadership that evening to discuss negotiations. On Wednesday evening Mike Bonds, Doug McKeen, Jeff Wall and Marcel Delhommeau from the company met with David Bourne, Clacy Griswold, Ed Gleason, Paul Alves and Bob Fisher from the IBT to learn what direction the company was seeking in regards to negotiations.
Thursday morning the steering committee was given a report on the meeting of the prior evening. The committee was informed that the company desired to get back to the table and that they appeared motivated to finishing what was started in January. Based on this report; the steering committee after much through discussion, determined that the best course of action would be to return to the table as soon as possible to finish the deal. There were concerns however that the company may not be serious and to that end there was a discussion on pulling the resource utilization MOU. After the committee learned that it was the opinion of the Division, through direction of counsel, that the letter could be terminated at any time, the committee tabled a motion to withdraw from the letter and will review progress in October to determine which course of action to take at that time.
Ed Gleason from IBT Legal gave a presentation on scope. It was determined that a joint scope committee meeting should be held in the very near future to discuss several issues that were brought forward in the question and answer period following Ed’s presentation.
The day finished with a general question and answer period and the session ended around 2pm.
After the session, the company was notified that the committee desired to return to the table. The parties will discuss scheduling in the next couple of weeks. It is anticipated that we will return to the table in early September. When dates are agreed upon it will be reported through the Dispatch.
On Wednesday the committee received several presentations on the status of bargaining when the parties last met in May.
Clacy Griswold, Airline Division Rep and Chief Negotiator, opened the session and explained to the group all that had transpired since the committee met last August.
Local 210 Business Agent Ralph Salzano went through article by article all of the non-economic items that were agreed to during the facilitated process. This was followed by a presentation by Peter Hardcastle, of Cheiron, on the VDB (Variable Defined Benefit) pension discussions. He was followed by John Colberg and Jim Holland; both from Cheiron, who gave a presentation on the health and welfare discussions. Dan Akins, economist from Akins and Associates then gave a presentation of the overall economic issues that the negotiating committee both has and will be dealing with.
At the end of each presentation there were question and answer periods for the committee so that they could clearly understand what was being discussed. One of the items that generated much discussion during the health and welfare discussions was the VEBA program. This program is a tax free account used to offset different medical costs. This account can be carried with the employee through retirement and then willed to surviving dependents. More information about this program will be available in the coming months.
Close to the end of the session on Wednesday Clacy received word that the company would like to meet with the IBT leadership that evening to discuss negotiations. On Wednesday evening Mike Bonds, Doug McKeen, Jeff Wall and Marcel Delhommeau from the company met with David Bourne, Clacy Griswold, Ed Gleason, Paul Alves and Bob Fisher from the IBT to learn what direction the company was seeking in regards to negotiations.
Thursday morning the steering committee was given a report on the meeting of the prior evening. The committee was informed that the company desired to get back to the table and that they appeared motivated to finishing what was started in January. Based on this report; the steering committee after much through discussion, determined that the best course of action would be to return to the table as soon as possible to finish the deal. There were concerns however that the company may not be serious and to that end there was a discussion on pulling the resource utilization MOU. After the committee learned that it was the opinion of the Division, through direction of counsel, that the letter could be terminated at any time, the committee tabled a motion to withdraw from the letter and will review progress in October to determine which course of action to take at that time.
Ed Gleason from IBT Legal gave a presentation on scope. It was determined that a joint scope committee meeting should be held in the very near future to discuss several issues that were brought forward in the question and answer period following Ed’s presentation.
The day finished with a general question and answer period and the session ended around 2pm.
After the session, the company was notified that the committee desired to return to the table. The parties will discuss scheduling in the next couple of weeks. It is anticipated that we will return to the table in early September. When dates are agreed upon it will be reported through the Dispatch.
Monday, June 3, 2013
Protocol Agreement Deadline Passes without Agreement
Protocol Agreement Deadline for UAL Mechanics Passes without Agreement
Management and union negotiators for the UAL mechanics met this past week in Chicago in a facilitated expedited bargaining process under the auspices of the National Mediation Board to continue negotiations under the outline of the Protocol Agreement with the hopes of concluding a joint combined agreement.
The protocol agreement called for discussions to end if agreement was not reached by May 29, 2013. While progress was made in certain areas, the union negotiating committee felt managements latest offer fell short of their expectations, and a tentative agreement between the parties was not finalized.
In a message to their members, the negotiators stated that they felt the addition of future bargaining dates could lead to an agreement and committed to work with the carrier, to the fullest extent possible, to arrange those dates in the immediate future.
The parties will continue to operate under the existing agreements as they decide how best to move forward in the Collective Bargaining process.
Monday, May 13, 2013
Mechanics Dispatch For May 11, 2013
May 11, 2013
Update
The week was very busy for the subcommittee meetings involving benefits including medical and pensions. J.J. Johns from the Benefits committee was brought in to assist in the benefits talks between the parties last week and continued assistance in this week’s round. His history, experience, and knowledge in medical and other benefits related issues were welcomed by the committee. Meetings over all this week progressed closer to some agreements, but there are still many unresolved areas. These union subcommittee meetings were assisted by Cheiron actuaries Gaelle Gravot and Jim Holland and were facilitated by Pat Sims from the NMB.
The parties continue to make progress and the discussions will continue the week of May 13thin Chicago.
Seniority Committee
Representatives from the Seniority Committee met with the company on Wednesday to discuss plans to create the new seniority list. Julianne Cooney, UA Senior Analyst - Labor Relations, and Mark Prpich – UA Labor Relations were on hand to discuss the many issues and concerns in combining the three lists in to one. The two member union committee will assist Julianne next week in creating a comprehensive accurate list which will be available for review should the negotiating committee reach a tentative agreement.
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)
The following Locals represent these respective cities:
Boston Local 25
New York & Washington Local 210
Charleston & Atlanta Local 528
Miami, Ft. Lauderdale Tampa & 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, May 6, 2013
Airline Division Week In Review May 4, 2013
UAL Negotiations Update
UAL negotiations continued in Chicago this week reviewing the comprehensive proposal to Phase 2 subjects exchanged with the carrier in last week’s session. Each item from the Companies initial proposal was broken down by the committee and discussed in detail. The union team then took another look at the Teamster proposals to determine where adjustments or agreements might possibly be made. Meanwhile, the subcommittees continued to meet and discuss benefit details in an effort to come to a mutual agreement. Cheiron actuaries Gaelle Gravot and Peter Hardcastle assisted the subcommittees and were facilitated by Michael Kelleher from the NMB.
On Wednesday, the Negotiating Committee received a presentation from IBT EAP Coordinator Caleb Goode. The presentation included briefings on the company’s planned/proposed changes to their drug/alcohol policy. Discussions were held within the committee regarding how to proceed with contractual language changes with regard to the IBT’s EAP program on United Airlines, as well as clarification of the program on the property.
The parties continue to make progress and the discussions will continue the week of May 6th in Chicago.
ExpressJet Negotiations Continue
Negotiations resumed on April 29th in Philadelphia. Discussions continued on Section Overtime and the union passed its first proposal on Section 8, Vacation.
No tentative agreements were reached at this session.
Negotiations will resume on May 21st in Washington, D. C. at the offices of the National Mediation Board.
Airline Division Mourns the loss of National Airlines Flight 102
The Airline Division joins all in the aviation community in mourning the tragic loss of National Airlines Flight 102. The flight; which was departing Baghram Air Force Base in Afghanistan, crashed immediately after takeoff, resulting in the loss of all aboard.
“This was an especially sobering loss for all of us in the industry,” said Airline Division Director David Bourne. “We lost people from across our industry; pilots, mechanics and loadmasters in a horrific manner. While it will no doubt prove helpful during the investigation, the dash camera video of the final moments leading to the crash made this an even more painful. Having many hours experience in the 747-400, I can only imagine the heroic efforts of the crew in the final moments. This only serves to remind us of the dangers of the profession for all involved and how important it is that we do everything we can to support each other in our jobs.”
“While they may not have been fellow Teamsters, they were fellow pilots, mechanics and loadmasters. We are lessened by their loss and join in sending our thoughts, prayers and condolences to their families, friends and the National Airlines family,” he concluded.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
President Obama said Tuesday that the recently approved bill to end air traffic controller furloughs will not eliminate the problems the sequester will cause for airline passengers.
Anthony Foxx, the mayor of Charlotte, N.C., was nominated by President Barack Obama for the post of secretary of transportation.
Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., has proposed a bill to add a second set of safety barriers to airline cockpits.
Airlines and Industry
Pinnacle Airlines emerged from bankruptcy on Wednesday as a subsidiary of Delta Air Lines.
Boeing has started marketing the updated version of its 777, known as the 777X, to customers.
Compass Airlines flight attendants voted to approve a five-year labor contract on Wednesday.
Republic Airways Holdings said the company is still planning to divest its Frontier unit by June or July, but would not comment on possible buyers.
IPads eliminate pilot documentation packs and save fuel, according to an American Airlines executive.
On Saturday, an Ethiopian Airlines Boeing 787 was the first to return to the skies since the January grounding of the aircraft.
Mechanics Dispatch For May 6, 2013
May 6, 2013
Negotiations Update
This week the negotiating team traveled back to Chicago. The week was spent reviewing the comprehensive proposal to Phase 2 subjects exchanged with the carrier in last week’s session. Each item from the Companies initial proposal was broken down and discussed by the committee. The union team then took another look at the Teamster proposals to determine where adjustments or agreements might possibly be made. Meanwhile, the subcommittees continued to meet and discuss benefit details in an effort to come to a mutual agreement. These union subcommittee meetings were assisted by Cheiron actuaries Gaelle Gravot and Peter Hardcastle and were facilitated by Michael Kelleher from the NMB.
On Wednesday, the negotiating committee received a presentation from IBT EAP Coordinator Caleb Goode. The presentation included briefings on the company’s planned/proposed changes to their drug/alcohol policy. Discussions were held within the committee regarding how to proceed with contractual language changes with regard to the IBT’s EAP program on United Airlines, as well as clarification of the program on the property.
The parties continue to make progress and the discussions will continue the week of May 6thin Chicago.
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)
The following Locals represent these respective cities:
Boston Local 25
New York & Washington Local 210
Charleston & Atlanta Local 528
Miami, Ft. Lauderdale Tampa & 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, April 29, 2013
Negotiations Update - April 28, 2013
April 28, 2013
Negotiations Update
The parties met in Phoenix this week, aided by Senior Mediator Pat Sims and Mediator Michael Kelleher of the NMB. Comprehensive proposals were exchanged that included wages, benefits, retirement security and scope.
After the initial proposals were made, subcommittees worked towards understanding the basis of the proposals. In addition the continued work of finalizing language continued.
The beginning of the week found the parties far apart in their positions. Progress was made in subcommittee work through the week and it is expected that further comprehensive proposals will be made the week of the 29th when the parties reconvene in Chicago.
Seniority Integration Update
The seniority integration committee met this week in Phoenix. The committee worked on the craft seniority list identifying ties between the three lists. Several discrepancies were found and the committee requested further information from the company. The committee will continue its work on the list in an effort to finish before the end of May.
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)
The following Locals represent these respective cities:
Boston Local 25
New York & Washington Local 210
Charleston & Atlanta Local 528
Miami, Ft. Lauderdale Tampa & 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
Airline Week In Review For April 27, 2013
UAL Negotiations Update
The parties met in Phoenix this week aided by Senior Mediator Pat Sims and Mediator Michael Kelleher of the NMB. Comprehensive proposals were exchanged that included wages, benefits, retirement security and scope.
After the initial proposals were made, the subcommittees worked towards understanding the basis of the proposals. In addition the continued work of finalizing language continued.
The beginning of the week found the parties far apart in their positions. Progress was made in subcommittee work through the week and it is expected that further comprehensive proposals will be made the week of the 29th when the parties reconvene in Chicago.
Seniority integration committee discussions also continued this week in Phoenix. The committee worked on the craft seniority list identifying ties between the three lists. Several discrepancies were found and the committee has requested further information from the company. The committee will continue its work on the list in an effort to finish before the end of May.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
The Federal Aviation Administration said that the U.S. air traffic system will resume normal operations by Sunday evening after lawmakers rushed a bill through Congress allowing the agency to withdraw furloughs of air traffic controllers and other workers.
The Federal Aviation Administration lifted its grounding order for Boeing 787s, including for United Airlines. The FAA also estimated the cost of fixing the 787 battery issue at $464,678 per aircraft. However, Boeing may cover the cost of the battery fix under warranty.
Airlines and Industry
The CEO of FedEx says the FAA should adopt satellite based air traffic control.
In this editorial, the Wall Street Journal decries the Federal Aviation Administration's decision to furlough air traffic controllers.
Delta Air Lines reported a $22 million loss in the first quarter for its oil refinery in Trainer, Pennsylvania. Delta purchased the refinery in June and reported a $63 million loss in the fourth quarter of last year.
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Airline Division Week In Review For March 30, 2013
UAL Negotiators Continue to Show Progress
Negotiations on the UAL/CAL/CMI JCBA continued the week of March 18th with proof reading the final pass between the parties of the articles discussed so far. Once this was completed, a full copy of all the articles with the suggested corrections was discussed with their legal representative and then sent to the company for review. New items and those items not already agreed to will be discussed starting next week in Phase Two of the process.
While this list was extensive; covering Articles 2 through 21, it was noted that the overwhelming majority of the changes to the content of each of these articles had been discussed and agreed to by the parties and the suggested changes were the product of the recommendations from the membership and the steering committee. Language that could not reach an agreement or parts of articles that contained economic properties will be discussed further by the parties in the next phase of negotiations.
Next week the parties will reconvene in Chicago along with Senior Mediator Pat Sims and Mediator Michael Kelliher. The committee will be given a presentation by the company on the present and future economic state of the airline, a standard practice which is a normal part of any negotiations. After that presentation is complete the union committee will meet with their actuaries and economists to continue preparation for phase two of negotiations including all economic items.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
The state of Texas will pay to keep 13 air traffic control towers open that are scheduled to be closed by the sequester.
The Senate has rescheduled a hearing on aviation safety that was postponed last week by votes in the upper chamber. The hearing of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee was planned to allow lawmakers to check on the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) progress on implementing safety provisions that were included in last year's $63 billion funding bill. The committee said Thursday that the hearing would now be held when lawmakers return from Easter recess on April 16.
A U.S. bankruptcy judge has approved has approved the proposed merger between U.S. Airways and American Airlines.
Airline and Industry
Boeing completed the first flight test of its 787 Dreamliner with a retooled lithium-ion battery system on Monday.
The proposed merger between American Airlines and US Airways would challengecompeting airlines at New York's LaGuardia Airport.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)