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 It relies on outdated data, flawed calculations, incorrect assumptions, and poor methodology. 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