United Airlines Bargaining Update SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

What You Need to Know About the Industry Reset Model

As we enter negotiations on economic issues with United Airlines, it’s critical that all technicians come together in solidarity for the industry-leading contract we deserve. Staying informed and engaged is key — especially when misinformation circulates. 

Recently, we’ve seen an inaccurate chart about reset calculations being shared online and at some stations. Let’s set the record straight: 

1. The circulated chart is not credible. It relies on outdated data, flawed calculations, incorrect assumptions, and poor methodology. 

2. The facts tell a different story. The current total value of our compensation is significantly higher than the 2024 average at American Airlines and Delta. Thus, our current compensation exceeds the two percent threshold that triggers a reset payment under the 2024 Reset Model.

The chart in question has been corrected below. Inaccurate figures are struck through in red, with the verified numbers provided alongside. The bottom line: this chart, in its original form, is unreliable and fails as a credible comparison of compensation between United, American, and Delta.

The Reality of Where We Stand

We understand the frustration of no longer holding the highest wage rates in the industry. American Airlines mechanics secured a new contract in October, and Delta raised wages earlier this year while continuing its union-busting efforts. United must do a better job of retaining qualified technicians. We know how it affects your day-to-day work when talented young technicians leave for competitors.

That’s why this fight is so important. When negotiations resume next month, your committee is going to fight for the best wages in the industry, top-tier health care and retirement benefits, and better working conditions. We are the best technicians in the world, and we deserve nothing less than a standard-setting contract for the sacrifices we endure to help United reach record breaking profits.

How You Can Help

Winning the strongest contract requires all of us to show strength and unity. Show up for actions and solidarity days. Stay informed about negotiations through your rank-and-file committee members. Push back against rumors and misinformation. Rumors and negativity only divide us and give United Airlines management leverage to delay negotiations.

If you have questions, reach out to your shop steward or business agent. Next year, we’ll bring the fight to United Airlines like never before. 

In Solidarity,

Your United Airlines Teamsters National Bargaining Committee

United Airlines 2024 Industry Reset Model Update

The United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee is working hard to reach a tentative agreement for a strong new contract for the membership.

Because our reset calculation shows us to be above our competitors by a substantial enough margin, wages for United Airlines technicians will not increase as part of the 2024 Industry Reset Model.

This model was created to ensure the value of the United technicians agreement is at least 102 percent of the average pay and benefits received by technicians at American Airlines and Delta Airlines. The 2024 Reset Model showed that United technician pay and benefits are above the threshold needed to trigger an adjustment to our wage scales.

The Reset Model considers five factors to assess the total value of the United technicians agreement. This value is then compared to the average value of the same five factors for technicians at American and Delta.

The five elements are:

1. Pay – Technicians all-in wage rate (scale rates, A&P Licenses Premium, Line Premium and Longevity Premium) and VEBA

2. Paid Time Off – vacation, sick, and holidays

3. Benefits – employer’s medical cost share and retirement contribution

4. Profit Sharing – applies the profit-sharing percentage to annual United Airlines pre-tax profits

5. Scope – the ratio of Technicians heads per mainline aircraft

Since the December 2022 reset, rates for top-of-scale technicians have increased by 18.0 percent at United, 8.4 percent at Delta, and 3.6 percent at American. Together, the average wage increase for American and Delta technicians is 6.0 percent since the reset was calculated in 2022.

The value of our contract is also higher due to United technicians paying lower medical premiums, earning more paid vacation time, and receiving more holidays and sick leave than the average of American and Delta technicians. It should be noted that the wage rates recently won by American Airlines technicians do not take effect until January 1, 2025, and are not allowed, per the CBA, to be used in the current Reset Model.

Additionally, the Reset Model analysis is run every 12 months after the United contract amendable date (12/05/24) to ensure that United technicians remain above the average of American and Delta during the bargaining period. This is a unique contract provision, not often seen in our industry, that provides the opportunity for wage increases during the negotiation process. With this unique contract provision, United technicians ensure that their total compensation remain at least 102 percent the average of American and Delta throughout the negotiation process

United Airlines Bargaining Update 12/4/24

United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee Defers Final Noneconomic Proposals, Pushes Forward Towards Economic Discussion

The United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee continued bargaining on Wednesday with the company, finalizing the last bargaining session before the contract’s December 5 amendable date. After starting the process of revamping the system bid protocol and finally receiving data from the company regarding the attendance of United Airlines Teamsters during adverse conditions, the committee decided to revisit these issues until later in the negotiating process. Negotiations on Article 5: Filling of Vacancies and Article 7: Hours of Service will continue after bargaining on the contract’s economic issues are complete.  

“We came ready to finalize the noneconomic items, but United so far has not shown the same sense of urgency or respect for the process as the committee,” said Clacy Griswold, Committee Chairman. “With the amendable date on December 5, we have no time to deal with the company's games. Its time for economic discussions.”

 Wednesday’s bargaining session comes on the heels of United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby announcing a $500 million expansion for the carrier at Washington-Dulles International Airport. The committee is planning to use this announcement and other recent developments at United as a proof point for industry-leading wages and benefits when economic negotiations begin.

 “United is not shy about advertising its recent success and profitability in the media, yet it won’t even agree to our noneconomic proposals at the table,” said Joe Prisco, a Teamsters Local 986 technician out of San Francisco International Airport and member of the negotiating committee. “We can’t afford to delay the economic discussion any longer. The committee is ready to win the contract we have earned for helping United reach record profits.”

 Bargaining with United will continue until December 5.

United Airlines Bargaining Update 12/3/24

United Airlines Teamsters Begin Ninth Round of Bargaining in San Francisco

The United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee kicked off the final round of 2024 bargaining on Tuesday in San Francisco. After securing tentative agreements on all but one non-economic article during last month’s bargaining session in Denver, the committee is focused this week on reaching agreements on the final noneconomic issue in the contract as we approach the December 5 amendable date.

After reaching an agreement in principle on Article 6: RIF and Recall in September, the committee reached a tentative agreement on the article yesterday. Additionally, after previously requesting critical data from United regarding employee attendance during adverse conditions for Article 7: Hours of Service, the committee received this information from the company and is working towards reaching a tentative agreement on this article as quickly as possible.

“The committee has been very clear with United: We cannot go forward without ensuring the physical safety and job security of our members during adverse conditions,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “It’s time to close this chapter of bargaining so we can start our discussion on improving the pay and benefits for United Airlines Teamsters.”

The committee also used Tuesday’s session to review the system bid process for United Airlines technicians and began making recommendations to update the process. The committee is fighting for a more transparent process for Teamsters who utilize the bid process to fill vacancies at United stations across the country.

“We’ve come a long way from where negotiations began in August, but the company is trying to slow down our momentum by stalling at the bargaining table,” said Sebastian Tyc, a Teamsters Local 210 technician out of Newark Liberty International Airport and member of the negotiating committee. “The committee is unified in getting the best deal possible for our members, and we won’t let United’s tactics get in the way of fighting for the contract we deserve.”

Bargaining with United will continue until December 5.

United Bargaining Update 11/15/24

United Airlines Teamsters Conclude Eighth Round of Bargaining in Denver, Reaches Agreement in Principle on Grievance Procedure, Board of Arbitration

The United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee concluded the eighth round of bargaining with the company Thursday in Denver by locking in critical victories. After reaching a tentative agreement on Article 11: Sick Leave and Occupational Injury on Tuesday, the committee won an agreement in principle with the company on Articles 19 and 20: Grievance Procedure and Board of Arbitration. 

Thanks to the unwavering advocacy and determination of the negotiating committee, United is now required to provide the union with all documents that it plans to use at all stages of the grievance process upon the Teamsters’ request. This will provide more transparency into the company’s actions during disciplinary cases and ensure that United Airlines Teamsters involved in the process are not blindsided by surprise charges or claims by the carrier. The committee also successfully obtained a provision to add a neutral facilitator to provide unbiased, non-binding advice to the System Board during grievance procedures. 

“For months, we have been fighting tooth and nail with the company to ensure United Airlines Teamsters have a more level playing field during the grievance process, and we won thanks to the determination of rank-and-file committee members,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “This was a fantastic week of bargaining, and we can now declare victory by reaching agreements for some of the most contentious issues in the contract.” 

The last remaining non-economic issue to negotiate is Article 7: Hours of Service. As part of their fight to ensure technicians aren’t forced to report to work during natural disasters and other emergencies, the union is demanding United provide critical data regarding the number of United Airlines Teamsters affected when the employer formally declares a facility is open during adverse conditions. 

“We are extremely close to moving towards negotiating our pay and health care, but we are not going to put the cart before the horse, which is exactly what United wants,” said Martin Acosta, a Teamsters Local 769 technician out of Orlando International Airport and member of the negotiating committee. “The committee is not going to agree to something without having all the information available. If United really wants to move this process forward, it will provide the data we are asking for.” 

The next round of negotiations will take place in San Francisco from December 3-5. The committee aims to complete bargaining on non-economic matters by the end of the next session

United Airlines Bargaining Update 11/14/24

Pressure Mounts as United Airlines Teamsters Push Carrier to Accept Final Non-Economic Proposals

The United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee continued bargaining with the company on Wednesday in Denver. After reaching a tentative agreement on Article 11: Sick Leave and Occupational Injury on Tuesday, the committee is working to reach agreements on the final two non-economic articles remaining in the contract. These include Article 7: Hours of Service, and the bundled Article 18/19/20: Union Representation, Grievance, and Board of Arbitration.

During Wednesday’s session, the committee submitted additional suggestions for changes to United’s System Board of Adjustment process. The committee is demanding that United agree to include a neutral facilitator during this process to help alleviate the current backlog of Grievance Review Panel cases at the company and prevent future jams during the process.  

“We have a backlog of Grievance Review Panel hearings that need resolution,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “A neutral facilitator can help break these deadlocks and get our members back to work. We’ve been negotiating this process for months—now it’s time for United to meet us on this so we can wrap up non-economic issues and tackle the rest of the contract.”

In addition to having a neutral facilitator for the Grievance Review Panel process, the national negotiating committee is fighting to ensure that the company cannot abuse these procedures by using non-contract language to determine the status of each grievance case.

“In the past, the company has used cracks in the contract to change the process at random and stun our members before we have a chance to state our case,” said Dave Mahood, a technician from Teamsters Local 210 out of Newark Liberty International Airport and member of the negotiating committee. “But the committee is determined to make it so United can’t circumvent the process any longer. We won’t move forward until we can all agree on the same language for our grievance process.”

Negotiations in Denver will continue until Thursday, November 14.

United Airlines Bargaining Update 11/13/24

United Airlines Teamsters Kick Off Eighth Round of Bargaining in Denver, Reach Tentative Agreement on Sick Leave 

Yesterday, the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee began the eighth round of bargaining in Denver. The committee is working diligently to reach agreements on the remaining non-economic articles of the contract so economic bargaining with the carrier can begin. 

During Tuesday’s session, the committee reached a tentative agreement with the company on Article 11: Leave and Occupational Injury. United must now consider extenuating circumstances, such as worsening illness or injury, when monitoring a Teamster’s use of sick/injured leave. 

“The committee did a fantastic job of holding United’s feet to the fire and forcing the company to agree to our proposal,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “We look forward to getting what we want on the rest of the open non-economic items as soon as possible.” 

The committee also received an economic presentation from Teamster economists on Tuesday, highlighting United’s recent profitability, the current state of wages in the industry, and economic factors to consider before bargaining the contract’s economic articles. 

“We’re eager to get into the mud and negotiate our pay and health care, but we aren’t budging until we reach agreements on the last non-economic items,” said Jasmine Johnson, a technician from Teamsters Local 986 out of Seattle-Tacoma International Airport and member of the negotiating committee. “Reaching an agreement on sick/injured leave is a good start to this week’s negotiations. We’re going to keep pushing this momentum towards a contract that reflects our value.”

United Airlines Bargaining Update 11/8/24

United Airlines Teamsters Conclude Seventh Round of Bargaining, Reach Agreement in Principle on RIF and Recall

Yesterday, the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee concluded the seventh round of bargaining in Chicago. During Thursday’s session, the committee reached an agreement in principle with the company on Article 6: RIF and Recall. In the agreement, the union successfully revised United’s Reduction in Force and Recall provisions to enhance Teamsters’ job protections and furlough rights when the company reduces the number of employees at a given station.

Specifically, the agreement in principle provides protections for furloughed Teamsters to keep their recall rights at their home station, even if they fill a vacancy at another station within the same point. Additionally, it allows for Teamsters to exercise Craft Seniority if United transfers work between stations, allowing members to transfer to the new location before vacancies are filled by new hires.

“I’m proud of the committee for standing together and sticking to its guns on this important Teamster issue,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “Thanks to the determination of the negotiating committee, United Airlines Teamsters will have more protections than ever before if the company decides to reduce the workforce.”

“This wasn’t easy to get, but we refused to give up. It is a fantastic win for our members,” said Ron Forziati, a Teamsters Local 25 technician out of Boston and member of the national bargaining committee. “Even if the company initiates furloughs, the provisions we gained will help protect our jobs, increase the options we have on the table, and reduce the stress on our families in such an event.”

The eighth round of bargaining will take place in Denver next week from November 12-14.

Teamsters Push Back on Changes to F117 Engine Program at San Francisco International Airport

For over two decades, United Airlines Teamsters at the San Francisco Maintenance Center's Engine Shop have been contracted to maintain and repair the Pratt & Whitney F117 engines that power the C-17 Globemaster for the U.S. Air Force. This work is a source of pride for technicians at SFO, many of whom are U.S. military veterans. However, United recently announced that it will not renew its contract with Pratt & Whitney after it expires in 2027, ending work for Teamsters on the C-17 Globemaster and impacting over 100 technicians at SFO who are currently working on F117 engines. 

“It is outrageous that United Airlines decided unilaterally not to extend this contract with Pratt & Whitney. This decision was made without consulting the Teamsters who are on the ground working on these engines, who would have raised objections to it. It’s unacceptable and unpatriotic,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. 

The Teamsters are demanding the company hold a town hall with United upper-level management to address rank-and-file members at SFO regarding the loss of the Pratt & Whitney contract and additional concerns with the carrier outsourcing work. 

“We have already seen our work on United planes outsourced to other countries, so the news that the company is ending our only non-United work in San Francisco is extremely upsetting,” said Fred Wood, a machinist at SFO and member of Teamsters Local 986. “United needs to meet with us in-person now so that we can raise our concerns directly.”

United Bargaining Update 10/23/24

United Airlines Teamsters Continue to Fight for Safety in Adverse Conditions, Propose Changes to Grievance and Board of Arbitration Procedures – 10.23.24

The United Airlines Teamster National Negotiating Committee resumed negotiations with the carrier on Wednesday. Bargaining continued on United’s procedures during adverse conditions, with the committee fighting to ensure that United Airlines Teamsters are protected from harm as well as potential pay loss and disciplinary actions in the event a facility is impacted by extreme weather or a natural disaster. The committee is also calling for more proactive communication from United during these events so that Teamsters know the status of a facility well in advance of the start of a work shift.

“We are making some progress with the company on this issue, but not nearly enough has been done to meet our concerns,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “The rank-and-file committee has shown incredible determination in fighting for these necessary protections for our members. Despite not yet reaching an agreement, we will not back down on our principles or concede anything that compromises the safety or job security of United Airlines Teamsters.”

In addition to continuing discussions on adverse conditions, the subcommittee on Grievance and Arbitration reengaged with the company with the goal of better protecting Teamster rights during these procedures. Specifically, the Teamsters are suggesting the parties adopt a System Board of Adjustment process where System Board members can rely on the advice of neutral mediators to streamline the process and not only clear the current backlog of grievances at the carrier but prevent future backlogs from forming.

“The committee thinks this is a major opportunity to reimagine these procedures at United for the benefit of rank-and-file Teamsters,” said Scott Stoddart, a technician at Los Angeles International Airport from Local 986 and member of the Teamsters negotiating committee. “We deserve more efficient grievance and adjustment processes without sacrificing our rights, and I look forward to building those procedures with my fellow Teamsters on the committee.”

Negotiations will continue in Chicago until October 24.

United Bargaining Update 10.22.24

United Teamsters Begin Sixth Round of Bargaining in Chicago – 10.22.24

The United Airlines Teamster National Negotiating Committee kicked off the sixth round of bargaining this week with the carrier in Chicago. Building off the tentative agreement reached during the last round of negotiations on investigatory meetings, the committee is now working towards finalizing the non-economic items of the contract with the company. 

To start negotiations this week, the committee submitted its counterproposal to the company on procedures for technicians during adverse conditions. The union is calling on United to follow local, state, and federal government authorities during states of emergency and provide technicians with certain protections when conditions impact the safety of facilities. 

“The committee has been consistent in demanding that United follow government authorities at all levels during natural disasters. With us only weeks removed from the devastation of Hurricane Helene and Hurricane Milton, it is especially important now that we get this right for our members,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “United Teamsters should not have to risk their safety or employment during emergencies beyond their control, and we will continue to fight for the protections that they deserve.” 

“Safety is always our number one priority as technicians. We are responsible for our own safety, the safety of our coworkers, and the safety of the flying public when we come to work,” said Gus Pappas, a technician at Tampa International Airport from Local 769 and member of the Teamsters negotiating committee. “Now United needs to prioritize our health and welfare by agreeing to follow the appropriate authorities during states of emergency and extreme weather events.” 

The remaining non-economic items for discussion include United’s procedures for sick leave, grievance hearings, and Board of Arbitration hearings. Negotiations will continue in Chicago until October 24.

United Bargaining Update 10/9/24

During Productive Bargaining in Denver, United Teamsters Reach TA on Investigatory Procedures

The United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee reached a tentative agreement on investigatory procedures of employees after three rounds of negotiations during the current bargaining session in Denver on Wednesday.

The Teamsters’ committee held firm on our demand for a minimum of two union representatives present during investigations with certain limited exceptions. The committee voted overwhelmingly to agree to United’s counterproposal on Article 18, Paragraph O once the company guaranteed the union’s minimum requirement.

The Teamsters will now move towards negotiating over United’s grievance and Board of Arbitration articles as part of the tentative agreement reached on Article 18, Paragraph O.

“This is a major win for United Airlines Teamsters. Thanks to the unity and persistence of the committee the last three days, our members now will have adequate representation when dealing with the company,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “I am proud of the members for sticking to our principles and delivering on this agreement. Now we can move this process forward and negotiate on other important Teamster issues.”

“I’m glad that we were able to reach a tentative agreement on such an important issue for the members.” said Spencer Powell, a technician from Teamsters Local 104 out of Phoenix and member of the union’s committee. “It wasn’t easy, but we stood together and didn’t back down when the company tried to counter us. I look forward to keeping this momentum moving in Chicago later this month.”

The next bargaining session will begin October 22 in Chicago.

United Airlines Bargaining Update 10/8/24

United Teamsters Fighting for Member Rights in Investigatory Procedures

During Tuesday’s negotiations, the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee continued to press the carrier to add language guaranteeing adequate union representation for members during investigatory procedures. The Teamsters demand a minimum of two union representatives present for all investigatory meetings between an employee and the company with certain limited exceptions. However, after two bargaining sessions, United has continued to counter the union’s proposal. 

“We let United know yesterday that we are not moving the process forward until we get this demand. It’s that important for our members,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “We came to Denver in good faith and spent two days going back and forth on this one policy. We will not rest until United gives our members the level playing field we deserve.” 

“It’s crucial that we have sufficient union representation whenever we have to meet with the company,” said Patrick Gelato, a technician from Teamsters Local 19 out of Houston and member of the union’s committee. “One of the reasons we joined the Teamsters in the first place is to make sure all members are treated fairly with equality and strong representation. We won’t let the company take advantage of us and deny us this important right.” 

Negotiations will continue in Denver until October 9.

United Airlines Bargaining Update 10/7/24

Bargaining with United Airlines continues this week with the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee beginning negotiations in Denver on Monday. During today’s negotiations, the national negotiating committee called on the company to guarantee appropriate union representation for United Airlines Teamsters during investigatory procedures, including the ability for Teamsters-approved union representatives to fully participate in any investigation of a United Teamsters technician.

In United’s current proposal, the company would have the right to determine if such protections are unreasonable. However, the union’s national negotiating committee is fighting for at least two Teamsters to be present for every investigatory procedure with certain exceptions.

“It’s crucial that our members have representation they can be confident in during investigations. The stance taken by the company to deny Teamsters this provision is unacceptable,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “The company has to do a better job of listening to the committee because we are not going to change our position on this issue.”

Negotiations will continue in Denver until October 9.

Response From United Regarding The Alight Protection Letter

To all United Airlines Teamsters,

Recently, a letter from United was mailed to each of your home addresses about a free protection program available through Alight Solutions. If you follow the steps provided within the letter, the Program will reimburse your CARP account in the event of any unauthorized activity through no fault of your own.

This letter was distributed to the membership without notice to the Union. As a result, many of you began contacting your local stewards and Business Agents with your questions and concerns.

As the IBT Benefits Coordinator, I sent United an email regarding the letter and many of the items brought up from members on the floor. The carrier responded with the following information which hopefully will address some of the questions and concerns you may have. Please reach out to your local steward or Business Agent if you have any further concerns.

In Solidarity,

Mike Moats, IBT Benefits Coordinator _______________________________________________________________________________

Thank you for reaching out and bringing us the concerns about the Alight Protection Program notice. We would like to clarify a few items and hopefully help you to understand why the notice was sent and what it means. The letter directs participants directly to YBR or the United Benefits Center, not to any third party or alternate website.

Importantly, there is no change to Alight’s commitment to data security and data privacy. The Alight Protection Program (“APP”) is an Alight program to help put an extra layer of protection on the accounts of the participants they administer. The APP does this by alerting participants to changes on their accounts via text messages. Without text messaging enabled, participants are notified of account changes via postal mail, which takes much longer to receive a notification of the change. Federal law requires participants to “elect in to” text messaging, so the active election is necessary.

There are only two actions a participant needs to take:

1) A participant needs to ensure they are signed up for text messaging with the correct mobile telephone number on file.

2) If the participant receives a text message regarding unauthorized activity, they need to contact the UABC immediately. The rest of the action items are simply reminders of how to protect your information. Alight has robust data security procedures, however when a third-party acts on behalf of a participant, the liability of loss may fall on the participant. So, the intent of this program is to get ahead of the breach before any monies are lost.

Here is an example: A participant is receiving a monthly annuity $1,000. A nephew of a participant attains a participant’s credentials, which allows the individual to gain access to the account and change the bank account information. A text message would be triggered to the participant informing them that a change has been made to their account. If they did not make this change, they would be able to contact the Benefits Center promptly to resolve the issue and not have the $1,000 paid to a false bank account.

Without text messaging capabilities, a letter would be mailed to the participant notifying of the bank account change. The participant may not receive this letter before the next benefit payment date. In this case, the payment would be made to the false account, and the participant would have lost $1,000. In a case like this, the benefit may not be reimbursable to a participant, as the credentials were attained through a third-party, not through a security breach on Alight’s part.

You are correct that a participant does not have access to CARP benefits until separated from United. However, this program will be in place at the time they do separate, so opting into text messaging now will put them into the program once separated.

We have requested the FAQs from Alight and will provide you with those as soon as available.

United Airlines Bargaining Update Sept. 26, 2024

United Teamsters Conclude Fourth Round of Bargaining in Chicago: September 26, 2024

United Airlines Teamsters concluded the fourth round of bargaining this evening after three intense days of negotiations with the carrier in Chicago. While United Airlines attempts to move past the Teamsters’ non-economic proposals, the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee is holding firm, demanding the carrier come to the table in good faith and take the union’s non-economic proposals seriously. 

“As much as we want to get to the economic part of the contract, we have serious issues that need to be resolved before we can move forward,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “While we had good discussions with the carrier this week, we won’t discuss economics until we lock down every last non-economic item — especially when it comes to our members’ safety. It’s pretty simple: if United Airlines wants to get to the economics, they can stop wasting our time on everything else. The ball is in their court.” 

Teamsters Extend Pressure on United for Safety Protections in Extreme Weather 

During this week’s bargaining, United Airlines Teamsters continued to advocate for increased safety protections during extreme weather events, with the national negotiating committee pushing the company to follow government declarations during a state of emergency. The Teamsters are also fighting for more transparency from the company during these events, including regular communication from the carrier regarding the status of impacted stations. 

“In Florida, we’re facing increasingly severe weather — like Hurricane Helene right now,” said Martin Acosta, a technician from Local 769 in Orlando and member of the national negotiating committee. “United’s lack of communication leaves us vulnerable. We need to be able to protect our families and ourselves, so we’re demanding that United prioritize our safety by keeping us informed.” 

The next round of negotiations will take place in Denver, Colorado from October 7-9.

Negotiations Update 9/25/24

United Teamsters Demand Carrier Follow Expert Guidelines During Extreme Weather

Bargaining continues in Chicago between United Airlines and the Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. Yesterday, the union hammered home the need for the company to prioritize the safety of Teamsters during extreme weather events like hurricanes. Teamsters negotiated with the company late into the evening, demanding United recognize local and state authorities during states of emergency and allow technicians certain protections under the “Adverse—Open” designation. 

“It’s worrisome that the carrier believes they are better equipped to determine what an adverse weather condition is than local and state authorities,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. "United Airlines Teamsters should not have to worry about the status of their employment as they prepare for states of emergency, and we will fight with the company until that is a reality." 

New Subcommittee Formed to Create System Bidding Process

United Airlines Teamsters are also fighting for improvements to the carrier’s proposal for a new bidding process for technicians. After the company presented its program for the system bidding process, the union formed a new subcommittee with the goal of building a more transparent, accessible, and informational bid procedure. The subcommittee’s first task is to compile a list of demands to submit to the carrier for future discussion. 

"Our concern with United’s proposed system is that it takes away the notifications we get when a system bid is open. As of now, we stand to lose our biggest benefit of the current process with United’s new program," said Jasmine Johnson, a member of Teamsters Local 986 from Seattle/Tacoma International Airport serving on the national negotiating committee. “We are not going to give up the notification system we rely on. I’m looking forward to building a more inclusive and transparent bid process with the company.” 

Negotiations in Chicago will continue until September 26.

UA Bargaining Update 9/24/24

United Teamsters Begin Fourth Round of Bargaining in Chicago 

The fight for safety and fairness continues as the Teamsters began the fourth round of negotiations with United Airlines in Chicago yesterday. Fresh off last week's partial tentative agreement on field trips, United is already backpedaling, raising objections to the definition of field trips and trying to water down protections for ground service and facility technicians.

But the Teamsters aren’t backing down at the table. “After agreeing to a major safety provision for Teamsters at United last week, the carrier is once again slow-walking negotiations," said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. "For years, our members have been risking their personal safety on these field trips. We won’t rest until every single United Airlines Teamster gets the safety protections they deserve."

Teamsters Demand United Follows Government Guidelines during Severe Weather

United Airlines Teamsters are demanding the carrier address safety concerns around severe weather and emergencies. The union insists the airline follow government guidelines, especially during dangerous events like hurricanes, instead of putting technicians in harm’s way by relying on company policies. Currently, United can force Teamsters to work even when local authorities say it’s too dangerous. Rank-and-file Teamsters on the negotiating committee are calling on the company to prioritize safety in the next contract. 

"United has a troubling habit of ignoring local safety warnings during extreme weather," said Gus Pappas, a member of Teamsters Local 769 serving on the National Negotiating Committee. "Time after time, we are left in the dark with no information from United, unsure if it’s even safe to show up. Safety is our number one priority, and we expect United to care as much about our lives as it does about its passengers.” 

Negotiations in Chicago will continue until September 26.

United Airlines Mechanics Campaign Meets with Wall Street in New York

On September 19th, Airline Division “Below the Wing” Director Bob Fisher travelled to New York to provide a status update on the United Airline mechanics contract negotiations and the broader state of the industry with stock analysts at six of Wall Street’s largest banks and brokerage firms. 

One key industry issue discussed with the analysts is the widespread and worsening shortage of airline technicians within the industry, and how this staffing issue could impact future growth for United Airlines and the industry at large. Analysts expressed surprise at the scale and scope of this issue, and mentioned most have never discussed the mechanics shortage issue before with either the airlines or unions representing airline mechanics. 

Fisher explained that while the sector may see a short-term reprieve due to Boeing production issues, the demand for technicians will only increase in the months ahead. Fisher further clarified that the best way for United to attract and retain is to finalize an industry leading agreement that allows the carrier to select the best available technician talent. 

“These careers are demanding and require a highly skilled and professional group of talent to keep the airline running,” Fisher added. “Finalizing this deal is paramount to ensuring the continued success of United Airlines."

Negotiations with United continue this week in Chicago. To keep informed and engaged, download the Teamsters Airline Division App at http://ibt.io/AirlineDivisionApp.

UA Bargaining Update 9/17/24

Teamsters Conclude Third Round of Bargaining in Denver

Today, the Teamsters concluded the third round of negotiations with United Airlines in Denver, Colorado. The newly formed subcommittee on Article 12: Field Trips continued discussions with the company about safety procedures for Teamsters who are sent to work at other stations, reaching a partial tentative agreement with the carrier that requires two Teamsters employees to be present on all United-related service requests for field trips.

“After intense back and forth with the company the last two days, this provision will greatly improve Teamsters’ safety on the job,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “We have been trying for over a decade to get this critical safety provision included in our contract, and it’s because of the unity of our negotiating committee we were finally able to get the company to agree.”

Subcommittees Continue to Press United on Key Issues

In addition to the subcommittee on Article 12: Field Trips, the subcommittees on Article 18 on Union Security and Representation; Article 19 on Grievance Procedure; and Article 20 on Board of Arbitration continued their discussions with the company on Tuesday. Despite sharing vital economic data with the National Negotiating Committee, United continues to stall on key issues like arbitration and grievance procedures. But the Teamsters are intensifying their efforts at the bargaining table and holding the company accountable.

“If the last two days have taught us anything, it’s that United is feeling the pressure. The subcommittees on key issues are doing fantastic work keeping the focus on reaching agreements as soon as possible,” said Jimmy Sligar, a mechanic from Local 19 and member of the National Negotiating Committee. “United can try its best to delay bargaining, but the unity shown by the committee this week will propel us forward to the industry leading contract we deserve.”

Negotiations will resume in Chicago on Sept. 24. To keep informed and engaged, download the Teamsters Airline Division app at http://ibt.io/AirlineDivisionApp.