February 2019 Business Agents' Report
Kin Care Update
We received answers on the two grievances that were submitted to the company regarding Kin Care.
Remember, the first grievance asserted that, since IBT members can call in sick on a trade day, they are also eligible for Kin Care if they choose to designate the day as such. That grievance was sustained by the Company, meaning that they agree with our assertion.
Kin Care Update
We received answers on the two grievances that were submitted to the company regarding Kin Care.
Remember, the first grievance asserted that, since IBT members can call in sick on a trade day, they are also eligible for Kin Care if they choose to designate the day as such. That grievance was sustained by the Company, meaning that they agree with our assertion. This was expected because the Company had already amended their final communication concerning Kin Care to state that, “Kin Care is not applicable for any absence which does not qualify for sick pay under the applicable sick pay policy or CBA.” This makes it clear that our CBA governs the situation. It is our expectation that the company will continue to honor the fact that the trade language in our CBA allows for sick-time usage and any sick day used on a trade day will also be eligible for kin care protection.
That still does not address our second grievance, however. We are also asserting that it has to be at the employee’s discretion whether or not they want to designate any sick day as kin care and that it should not be auto-designated as such by the Company over the employee’s objections. Additionally, our grievance states that the 2-hr minimum usage requirement is arbitrary and wrong because it does not mirror any sick-time usage requirements in our CBA, as is required by the kin care law.
The Company answer denied our grievance and it was moved to the 2nd Step. The Business Agents expect to receive that grievance after it is pushed to the 3rd Step. At that point, it will be placed on hold pending the outcome of the state investigation of our corresponding complaint.
We are currently waiting for the assignment of a Compliance Officer to investigate our complaint to the State. We will be sure to pass along any information we get going forward.
Shift Bid Absentee Bid Forms
There have been several instances recently where individuals missed their bid appointments for a shift bid. Honestly, if you miss your appointment for any reason and cannot exercise your seniority, the result is probably going to be ugly, with you ending up on the least desirable shift, crew, and/or day-off pattern. That is why we recommend that you always make it a habit to fil out the pre-bid with a full list of preferences based on your priorities. You can still call at your designated appointment time to see what is available but, if you miss your appointment, you will be protected against striking out on a shift bid.
We realize that most folks do not plan to miss their appointments once they are made, but it happens nonetheless. And there is generally nothing that can be done to reverse the result.
So, make sure to protect yourself. It only takes a few minutes to fill out the form and give yourself some peace of mind.
Meet Jimmy Uharriet - SFOPV Technician
Jimmy Uharriet had a severe firearms accident in March of 2016 that left him completely blind in both eyes. Prior to the accident, Jimmy had been a PV Mechanic at SFO working on Facilities, Jet Bridges, Locksmithing and DC Air carts. After his accident two people, Valerie Campos, an Orientation and Mobility Specialist with the Vista Center, a non-profit that provides services for blind and other visually-impaired folks, and Suzanne Tierney, a counselor from the California Department of Rehabilitation, were instrumental in getting Jimmy on the road to recovery. They taught him how to use a computer and walking stick and basically how to learn to live while blind. Senior Manager Cathy Abbott, who was Jimmy’s manager at the time, mentioned to Jimmy that there might be a path to get him accommodated at United after discussions with Chief Steward Greg Sullivan. This really gave Jimmy hope.
Jimmy also started working with Connie Liu, the Founder and Director of Project Invent, a design thinking program with the goal of inspiring high school students nationwide to invent technologies that make a difference in their communities.
Jimmy hit it off with the kids at Project Invent and soon they were collaborating on an ongoing basis. Eventually, the team came up with two remarkable inventions. One was a cane modification using built-in sensors that help stop blind people from veering off course so that they continue on a straight path. Another invention also involved a cane modification that uses motion-rechargeable LED’s that provide light to make the person visible at night. Both of these modifications dramatically improve safety for blind individuals.
The experience with the students at Project Invent provided a lasting inspiration for Jimmy and this really helped his healing process. While this was all happening, Teamsters Member Assistance Coordinator Steve Loone stayed in contact with Jimmy and also helped Greg Sullivan facilitate discussions with Cathy Abbott and HR Manager Kathy Tetrev on Jimmy’s possible return. Around September of 2017, Jimmy started to really push for an opportunity to show what he could bring to the table. Cathy Abbot asked him to put together a list of jobs he felt he could perform. Jimmy came up with the following: Build and Repair battery Charging Cables, Build A 320 GPU Cable supports, Overhaul and Build drive motors and reducers, Clutch Breaks, Roller bearings for the Rotunda’s on the Jet Bridges, Stream lights, Repair PC Push Carts as well as PC Air Coupling Seal replacements.
The new SFOPV Manager, Robin Bier, who took over for Cathy Abbott when Cathy moved up to manage Base Facilities (SFOMP), was also very supportive of the idea to bring Jimmy back. On January 18, 2018, they had the first RAP session to discuss Jimmy’s return. Present with Jimmy were Kathy Tetrev, Robin Bier, Greg Sullivan, and Valerie Campos. Later, PV Lead Doug Rojas and the guys in the PV shop helped set up a work area for Jimmy and he came in with Valerie to discuss what he needed as far as Tooling, Drawers, Parts Bins and also to identify and address safety concerns.
On June 11, 2018, Jimmy came back to work on a 90-day trial period. PV Leads Jeff Sanchez and Technician Ed Tanasupol worked closely with Jimmy to get him acclimated to his new workspace. It was apparent from the beginning that Jimmy could do all of the jobs on his list and much more. He has been going strong ever since.
We want to send out special thanks to PV Leads Doug Rojas and Jeff Sanchez, Technician Ed Tanasupol and all of the other folks down at Facilities for their support of Jimmy’s mission. Additionally, we are very grateful to Cathy Abbot, Kathy Tetrev, and Robin Bier for their support in making this endeavor a reality. Thanks as well to Greg Sullivan and Steve Loone for their tireless advocacy on Jimmy’s behalf. Jimmy’s incredible story of overcoming his disability and making his way back to work from this devastating accident is an inspiration to us all!
SFOPV Technician Jimmy Uharriet attends the February Craft Meeting
Grievance Update
We had an Arbitration hearing in Miami, Florida on February 21st concerning the grievance for the HRA/RHA cap in 2017. We believe that the hearing went very well. The Arbitrator is awaiting the submittal of the official stenographers report. Once submitted, that report will go to both attorneys and they will prepare their respective briefs for the case and submit to the Arbitrator for his consideration. From that point, the Arbitrator should have a decision within sixty to ninety days.
We have an upcoming Arbitration date on April 4th in Chicago for the EFS Bypass from SFOLX. We will be flying to Chicago on April 2nd to finalize preparation.
We are also currently in discussions concerning another EFS bypass grievance for SFOMM, which is also at Arbitration step but not yet scheduled. It is our intent to schedule an Arbitration date if this latest dialog does not lead to a settlement satisfactory to our members.
We have two days of System Boards scheduled for March 26th-27th. We originally intended to focus on hearing our Outsourcing grievances, but after discussions with the Airline Division, we intend to push those grievances directly to Arbitration.
As a result, we identified a batch of 9 grievances to schedule for discussions concerning System Board hearings. Subsequently, it was determined that two identical grievances (I-Time Bank & Deferred Holidays) were heard/scheduled at other stations so they were put on hold pending those outcomes.
Of those remaining, one grievance (Improper Point Assessment) was settled by the Company, one grievance (Untimely Attendance Interaction) will have first step answer revised by the Company to the Union’s satisfaction and will thus be Withdrawn, one grievance (Improper Overtime Assignment) is still being discussed and will be heard if no resolution, and four others (Dock 3 Tool Crib, Progressive Discipline, BAQ 116 work by BAQ128’s, VAC conversion to FMLA) will be heard. We will keep you posted of all developments. If you would like to know more about these grievances, please contact your Shop Steward or come by the Union Office for a visit.
Democrat Republican Independent Voter Education (DRIVE)
Big Business spends big money in Washington to influence members of Congress and push their anti-worker plans. They outspend working families on politics by more than 15-1.
Through grassroots political action and aggressive lobbying on Capitol Hill and in State Houses and City Halls across America, Teamsters have stopped some of the worst attacks on working people.
But Big Business is pushing their agenda harder than ever. That means we have to fight back stronger than ever. And we have to move forward with our own programs, like improving job safety, fighting for affordable childcare, and stopping abuses by corporate health providers and insurance companies.
You can take a stand for working families by contributing to DRIVE – the Teamsters’ political action committee. Your contribution will support grassroots action by Teamster families to stand up to Big Business interests.
Contributions to DRIVE support a wide range of Teamster activities:
Keeping members and their families informed on the key issues that affect our future, including voter guides that show the records of our Senators and Representatives in Congress.
Rallies, news conferences, advertisements, and phone banks to build support on issues of concern to working people.
Voter registration, and financial support for political candidates who will stand up for working families. DRIVE is non-partisan and independent from any political party.
Our Commitment to Communication
The communication process is an extremely important part of what we do to represent our folks here at SFO, and as we have been outlined for quite some time, we have been blasting out the BA Report along with any other communication we get from the Airline Division or the International to anyone who registers at the www.TeamstersSFO.com. We feel that it is essential for all of our members to be engaged and informed at all times. Therefore, we encourage all of you to spread the word to your fellow technicians to go to the TeamstersSFO website and click on the ‘email signup’ tab to get on the list.
Additionally, the Chief Stewards hold weekly meetings with the Shop Stewards to pass on any important informational items that may come up during the month. It is crucial to our process that every work area on every shift have Shop Steward representation and that the Shop Steward give, at a minimum, weekly briefings to his/her crew so all the information gets to our members and members have the opportunity to ask questions.
Most importantly, we urge you to also consider getting more involved. Every month, on the last Thursday, we hold Craft Meetings at Local 856. At these meetings, the membership hears reports from the Business Agents and other members of the SFO Committee on Grievances, Safety, Member Assistance, and the TSAP program. Additionally, all members have an opportunity to ask questions and bring up topics for discussion. Check your IBT Bulletin Board for dates and times and make it a point to stop by whenever you can.
As always, stay informed!
In Solidarity
Mark DesAngles Javier Lectora
Business Agent Business Agent
Local 986 Local 856
Airline Division Week in Review — February 23, 2019
UPS Mechanics and Related ratify agreement, now the highest paid in the industry
UPS aircraft mechanics and related employees at UPS Air Cargo have voted to ratify their newest contract with the company. The contract, which becomes amendable on November 1, 2023, makes UPS Air Cargo mechanics the highest-paid air cargo mechanics in the country by a wide margin.
UPS Mechanics and Related ratify agreement, now the highest paid in the industry
UPS aircraft mechanics and related employees at UPS Air Cargo have voted to ratify their newest contract with the company. The contract, which becomes amendable on November 1, 2023, makes UPS Air Cargo mechanics the highest-paid air cargo mechanics in the country by a wide margin.
“We knew if we stuck together and stayed committed to protecting the pay and benefits we’ve earned over decades of hard work, we’d do what many thought was impossible and win big for our families, the future of our company and our customers,” said Teamsters Local 2727 President Tim Boyle. “This contract does just that, along with raising standards throughout the aviation industry.”
Some of the improvements in the contract include an immediate 17.72 percent pay increase, raises each year resulting in a 32.61 percent increase in pay from current rates by the end of the contract and the protection of an unparalleled health care package with no premiums.
“I want to extend my congratulations to the Teamsters Local 2727 negotiating committee. This agreement is the culmination of over four years of long hours, hard work and dedication from them. Their focus on improving the existing agreement and quality of life for our UPS members is what enabled us to ratify this industry-leading contract,” said Captain David Bourne, Director of the Teamsters Airline Division.
SWA Simulator Technicians Ratify Agreement
Flight simulator technicians working for Southwest Airlines voted to ratify their contract with Teamsters Local 19. The collective bargaining agreement covering the 50 technicians will be in place for the next five years.
“Congratulations to the members of our negotiating committee and all of our flight simulator technicians who worked hard to negotiate and ratify this contract,” IBT Airline Division Director Capt. David Bourne said. “This contract is a perfect example of the things airline workers can accomplish by sticking together and working towards a common goal.”
“I’m extremely pleased that we were able to negotiate and ratify a contract as great as this one more than two months prior to the amendable date,” Local 19 President Robert Clever said. “We look forward to continuing our productive and cooperative relationship with the company.”
The contract includes many improvements, such as a three percent year-over-year wage increase, an increase in longevity pay and a 2.5 percent early ratification bonus. The agreement will remain one of the best in the airline industry for flight simulator technicians.
IBT, UAL jointly request NMB Mediation
On Tuesday February 5th, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and United Airlines jointly requested that the National Mediation Board (NMB) provide assistance to mediate negotiations for an agreement covering maintenance controllers working at the company. The 90 maintenance controllers work in the carrier’s Chicago headquarters and coordinate maintenance and repairs for United Airlines’ aircraft fleet.
“We’re looking forward to a productive conversation with the company and the NMB,” said Captain David Bourne, Teamsters Airline Division Director. “We’re confident that all of us can work together to craft a collective bargaining agreement that reflects the value, expertise and professionalism that these workers bring to United Airlines.”
Negotiations for Allegiant Air Technicians and Related Continues
The IBT International Negotiating Team, Chairman Clacy Griswold, Co-Chair Bob Fisher, International Representatives, Paul Alves and Chris Moore, Business Agents Mike Moats (964), Tom Esposito (769), Gregg Vandagriff (104), Dave Elmore (986) along with rank and file committee members Collin Coffman, IWA, Brad Yokie, SFB and Floyd Espinoza, LAS, met at Allegiant Headquarters to begin direct negotiations with Allegiant management. Detailed work in advance by the committee before the first meeting with the Company led to a very productive start.
The Union was able to pass ten articles; Articles 5 (Hours of Service), 8 (Filling of Vacancies), 9 (Reduction in Force, Furlough and Recall), 10 (Leaves of Absence), 12 (Training), 13 (Safety and Health), 19 (Dispute Resolution and Grievance Procedure), 20 (System Board of Adjustment), 23 (Management Rights) and 24 (Labor Management Rights).
In a message to the membership, the Committee reported that the meeting with the Company was positive and that the parties are in the process of setting up future dates.
Keeping an Open Mind on Pilots’ Mental Health
The deliberate crash of the Germanwings Airbus A320 in March 2015 has given the aviation industry a wakeup call to confront cockpit mental health head-on. Efforts within the air transport sector to overcome stigma attached to mental health problems are progressing.
Other airlines and Unions worldwide have established Peer Support groups to assist pilots with mental health and wellness. These groups have achieved a 90% success rate by helping pilots with their issues and providing a plan for returning to work.
The Teamsters Airline Division has formed a Steering Committee to create a Pilot Peer Assistance group for all our Union members.
The initiative is called Crewmembers Helping Other Crewmembers Keep Safe (CHOCKS). CHOCKS is designed to assist pilots and their families across all Locals of the Airline Division by providing resources to help in their well-being.
The Peer Support efforts will focus on education and understanding the difference between being stressed- but functioning and stressed to break-down.
The CHOCKS peer support structure provides individuals a place to turn to in order to share their issues with trusted peers in as close to a non-threatening environment as possible; allowing for early intervention and a positive culture of speaking about mental health.
The interest is to ensure crews are not suffering distractions from “common troubles” of life, which might result in accidental - but potentially hazardous - slips during flight operations. To list few of the stressors or “common troubles” in life; Depression and Grief, Divorce, Chemical Dependency, Stress, Anxiety, Financial, Parenting, a Sick Child or Spouse, Suicide, Domestic Violence, Emotional, or Elder Care.
Since none of the peer support volunteers are professional counselors, CHOCKS is simply charged with providing resources to the problems our pilots undergo in order to provide a plan of action. Sometimes acting just as a confidential and active listener can help, but, if the circumstances merit further action, then we can suggest contacting the appropriate resource to help address the source of the stress.
The steering committee is working diligently to develop the CHOCKS program and the needed resources. Committee members Roy Liggett, Local 1224 Human Factors Coordinator, Captain Janina Clark (Atlas Air), Captain Steven York (Southern Air), and Kathy Carl, Consultant (Atlas Air Flight Engineer – (Retired), have all recently attended American Airlines “Project Wingman” training for peer support volunteers in Dallas TX. Crewmembers will be notified of the status of this initiative as it evolves.
Airline Division Representatives attend Aero Engines Americas Conference
The AEA conference was held January 29th and 30th in Dallas. Attending for the Airline Division were Vinny Graziano, National Coordinator MX and Chris Moore Chairman, TAMC. The conference provided a candid look at what is going on in the Engine Overhaul MRO business.
Opening remarks and state of the industry updates were presented by ICF Consultants and discussed the Flying Fleet and Engine Overview and Forecast as well as Mergers and Acquisitions and analysis of Aero Engine trends.
Bloomberg Intelligence provided a macroeconomic outlook of the industry that included Global Markets, Analysis of Geopolitical issues, Fleet Demographics, Oil Prices, Financing and Investor Perspective.
The industry outlook is still strong despite an increase in oil prices. Lower oil prices incentivize keeping older less fuel-efficient engines in service and increases the number of engines to be overhauled. Unfortunately, the lack of available skilled labor and parts are constraining capacity not just in North America but worldwide and although new technologies such as Virtual Training, 3D printing and AI Troubleshooting are helping to streamline the overhaul process the fact remains that there are just not enough skilled mechanics available to cover all of the work.
Look for a more detailed report on this conference in the March 2019 TAMC newsletter.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
A bipartisan group of US lawmakers have introduced a bill that would require all commercial aircraft operating in the US be retrofitted with secondary cockpit barriers to prevent terrorist attacks similar to 9/11.
US carrier Kalitta Air has called for sanctions on the Dutch government, Schiphol and Stichting Airport Coordination Netherlands (ACNL), alleging its slots were “wrongfully withheld”.
Two key US lawmakers overseeing federal transportation policy have introduced a bill that would keep the FAA fully funded during any future lapse in appropriations.
Airlines, Industry and Labor
The Boeing 747 has been an iconic piece of the airline industry since its introduction in 1969, and still serves today, largely as a freighter for cargo carriers around the world. "There are other very capable aircraft on the market, but no other aircraft in production can match [the 747's] massive capacity, range and efficiency," said UPS freighter captain and program manager Doug Menish.
As Amazon continues its meteoric rise into the e-commerce stratosphere, the company’s relationship with the well-established integrators, like FedEx, UPS and DHL, have been relatively cordial, as Amazon has long relied on the express companies’ vast networks of last-mile options to deliver goods in a timely fashion.
However, according to the latest annual Form 10-K statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), there has been a subtle, but crucial, addition in Amazon’s description of its competitors that may give pause to the likes of FedEx and UPS. Under the section titled “Risk Factors,” Amazon describes how it faces “intense competition” from a long list of entities. This year, for the first time, the company includes “transportation and logistics services” on the list, suggesting that Amazon will be focusing more of its attention on supply chain logistics this year.
Alaska Airlines' board of directors has elected John Ladner, an active pilot, as vice president of flight operations, effective March 1. Horizon Air's board appointed Brooke Vatheuer as senior vice president of operations and planning.
Airbus announced Feb. 14 it is terminating the Airbus A380 program in 2021, after Emirates cut back the last major order to just 14 A380s, instead of the 53 it had on firm order. Easyjet and Delta have confirmed they are in discussions with Italian state railway firm Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane (FS) about a potential consortium bid to run a restructured Alitalia.
Airline Division Week in Review — February 9, 2019
UPS Mechanics and Related ratify agreement, now the highest paid in the industry
UPS aircraft mechanics and related employees at UPS Air Cargo have voted to ratify their newest contract with the company. The contract, which becomes amendable on November 1, 2023, makes UPS Air Cargo mechanics the highest-paid air cargo mechanics in the country by a wide margin.
UPS Mechanics and Related ratify agreement, now the highest paid in the industry
UPS aircraft mechanics and related employees at UPS Air Cargo have voted to ratify their newest contract with the company. The contract, which becomes amendable on November 1, 2023, makes UPS Air Cargo mechanics the highest-paid air cargo mechanics in the country by a wide margin.
“We knew if we stuck together and stayed committed to protecting the pay and benefits we’ve earned over decades of hard work, we’d do what many thought was impossible and win big for our families, the future of our company and our customers,” said Teamsters Local 2727 President Tim Boyle. “This contract does just that, along with raising standards throughout the aviation industry.”
Some of the improvements in the contract include an immediate 17.72 percent pay increase, raises each year resulting in a 32.61 percent increase in pay from current rates by the end of the contract and the protection of an unparalleled health care package with no premiums.
“I want to extend my congratulations to the Teamsters Local 2727 negotiating committee. This agreement is the culmination of over four years of long hours, hard work and dedication from them. Their focus on improving the existing agreement and quality of life for our UPS members is what enabled us to ratify this industry-leading contract,” said Capt. David Bourne, Director of the Teamsters Airline Division.
IBT, UAL jointly request NMB Mediation
On Tuesday, February 5, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and United Airlines jointly requested that the National Mediation Board (NMB) provide assistance to mediate negotiations for an agreement covering maintenance controllers working at the company. The 90 maintenance controllers work in the carrier’s Chicago headquarters and coordinate maintenance and repairs for United Airlines’ aircraft fleet.
“We’re looking forward to a productive conversation with the company and the NMB,” said Capt. David Bourne, Teamsters Airline Division Director. “We’re confident that all of us can work together to craft a collective bargaining agreement that reflects the value, expertise and professionalism that these workers bring to United Airlines.”
Negotiations for Allegiant Air Technicians and Related Continues
The IBT International Negotiating Team, Chairman Clacy Griswold, Co-Chair Bob Fisher, International Representatives, Paul Alves and Chris Moore, Business Agents Mike Moats ( 964), Tom Esposito (769), Gregg Vandagriff (104), Dave Elmore (986) along with rank and file committee members Collin Coffman, IWA, Brad Yokie, SFB and Floyd Espinoza, LAS, met at Allegiant Headquarters to begin direct negotiations with Allegiant management. Detailed work in advance by the committee before the first meeting with the Company led to a very productive start.
The Union was able to pass ten articles; Articles 5 (Hours of Service), 8 (Filling of Vacancies), 9 (Reduction in Force, Furlough and Recall), 10 (Leaves of Absence), 12 (Training), 13 (Safety and Health), 19 (Dispute Resolution and Grievance Procedure), 20 (System Board of Adjustment), 23 (Management Rights) and 24 (Labor Management Rights).
In a message to the membership, the Committee reported that the meeting with the Company was positive and that the parties are in the process of setting up future dates.
Keeping an Open Mind on Pilots’ Mental Health
The deliberate crash of the Germanwings Airbus A320 in March 2015 has given the aviation industry a wakeup call to confront cockpit mental health head-on. Efforts within the air transport sector to overcome stigma attached to mental health problems are progressing.
Other airlines and Unions worldwide have established Peer Support groups to assist pilots with mental health and wellness. These groups have achieved a 90% success rate by helping pilots with their issues and providing a plan for returning to work.
The Teamsters Airline Division has formed a Steering Committee to create a Pilot Peer Assistance group for all of our Union members.
The initiative is called Crewmembers Helping Other Crewmembers Keep Safe (CHOCKS). CHOCKS is designed to assist pilots and their families across all Locals of the Airline Division by providing resources to help in their well-being.
The Peer support efforts will focus on education and understanding the difference between being stressed- but functioning and stressed to break-down.
The CHOCKS peer support structure provides individuals a place to turn to in order to share their issues with trusted peers in as close to a non-threatening environment as possible; allowing for early intervention and a positive culture of speaking about mental health.
The interest is to ensure crews are not suffering distractions from “common troubles” of life, which might result in accidental - but potentially hazardous - slips during flight operations. To list few of the stressors or “common troubles” in life; Depression and Grief, Divorce, Chemical Dependency, Stress, Anxiety, Financial, Parenting, a Sick Child or Spouse, Suicide, Domestic Violence, Emotional, or Elder Care.
Since none of the peer support volunteers are professional counselors, CHOCKS is simply charged with providing resources to the problems our pilots undergo in order to provide a plan of action. Sometimes acting just as a confidential and active listener can help, but, if the circumstances merit further action, then we can suggest contacting the appropriate resource to help address the source of the stress.
The steering committee is working diligently to develop the CHOCKS program and the needed resources. Committee members Roy Liggett, Human Factors Coordinator, Captain Janina Clark, Atlas Air, Captain Steven York, Southern Air, and Kathy Carl, Consultant, retired Atlas Air Flight Engineer, have recently attended American Airlines Project Wingman training for peer support volunteers in Dallas TX. Crewmembers will be notified of the status of this initiative as it evolves.
Airline Division Representatives attend Aero Engines Americas Conference
The AEA conference was held January 29th and 30th in Dallas. Attending for the Airline Division were Vinny Graziano, National Coordinator MX and Chris Moore Chairman, TAMC. The conference provided a candid look at what is going on in the Engine Overhaul MRO business. Opening remarks and state of the industry updates were presented by ICF Consultants and discussed the Flying Fleet and Engine Overview and Forecast as well as Mergers and Acquisitions and analysis of Aero Engine trends.
Bloomberg Intelligence provided a macroeconomic outlook of the industry that included Global Markets, Analysis of Geopolitical issues, Fleet Demographics, Oil Prices, Financing and Investor Perspective.
The industry outlook is still strong despite an increase in oil prices. Lower oil prices incentivize keeping older less fuel-efficient engines in service and increases the number of engines to be overhauled. Unfortunately, the lack of available skilled labor and parts are constraining capacity not just in North America but worldwide and although new technologies such as Virtual Training, 3D printing and AI Troubleshooting are helping to streamline the overhaul process the fact remains that there are just not enough skilled mechanics available to cover all of the work.
Look for a more detailed report on this conference in the March 2019 TAMC newsletter.
Airline Industry News
Governmental and Regulatory
US carrier Kalitta Air has called for sanctions on the Dutch government, Schiphol and Stichting Airport Coordination Netherlands (ACNL), alleging its slots were “wrongfully withheld”.
Two key US lawmakers overseeing federal transportation policy have introduced a bill that would keep the FAA fully funded during any future lapse in appropriations.
Airlines, Industry and Labor
The Boeing 747 has been an iconic piece of the airline industry since its introduction in 1969, and still serves today, largely as a freighter for cargo carriers around the world. "There are other very capable aircraft on the market, but no other aircraft in production can match [the 747's] massive capacity, range and efficiency," said UPS freighter captain and program manager Doug Menish.
As Amazon continues its meteoric rise into the e-commerce stratosphere, the company’s relationship with the well-established integrators, like FedEx, UPS and DHL, have been relatively cordial, as Amazon has long relied on the express companies’ vast networks of last-mile options to deliver goods in a timely fashion.
However, according to the latest annual Form 10-K statement filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), there has been a subtle, but crucial, addition in Amazon’s description of its competitors that may give pause to the likes of FedEx and UPS. Under the section titled “Risk Factors,” Amazon describes how it faces “intense competition” from a long list of entities. This year, for the first time, the company includes “transportation and logistics services” on the list, suggesting that Amazon will be focusing more of its attention on supply chain logistics this year.
January 2019 Business Agents' Report
February is Black History Month: Union Rights and Civil Rights Link
The following is a piece on this relationship from the IBT:
Since 1903, the Teamsters Union has been at the forefront of the struggle for workers’ rights in North America. During Black History Month, Teamsters honor the contributions of African-Americans in our nation’s history and their important place in the union today.
February is Black History Month: Union Rights and Civil Rights Link
The following is a piece on this relationship from the IBT:
Since 1903, the Teamsters Union has been at the forefront of the struggle for workers’ rights in North America. During Black History Month, Teamsters honor the contributions of African-Americans in our nation’s history and their important place in the union today.
Early on in the union’s history, Teamsters advocated for “no color lines” within the labor movement and would not hold with the practice of separate unions for black members. Women and minorities were part of the membership from the beginning, with black Teamsters attending at the founding convention. Teamster contracts included provisions for equal pay as early as 1917. That year, the union won a clause in a contract for women laundry workers that employees would be paid the same regardless of race.
Over the years, the Teamsters Union has been privileged to both lead and support civil rights struggles that helped build the foundation of our great union and helped make North America a better place for all of us.
“Today’s Teamsters work in almost every imaginable occupation and hail from a multitude of backgrounds and ethnicities,” said Jim Hoffa, Teamsters General President. “While our heritage and tasks may differ, we share a common commitment to guaranteeing a safe and fair workplace, a secure retirement and a decent standard of living for ourselves, our families and our fellow workers.”
This Black History Month, be thankful for the contributions of those who have helped make our union what it is: a diverse, ever-growing organization that fights for justice, equality and fair treatment in the workplace.
2019 Scholarship Application Periods are now Open
It is that time of year again folks. The Teamsters Local 856/986 Scholarship Fund and the James R Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Fund will be accepting applications until March 31st.
If your son or daughter is a graduating high school senior with a GPA of 3.0 or better, who will be attending a college/university or vocational/trade School in the fall, then you want to apply for both scholarships.
You can find out more information by going to the TeamstersSFO website and clicking on the Scholarships & Discounts link under the Member Resources tab.
You can download the 856/986 Scholarship application directly from there or you can contact your Chief Steward or Shop Steward to get a copy.
All applicants for the James R. Hoffa Scholarship must submit applications online at the James R Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Fund website at www.jrhmsf.org. Please do not wait until the last minute as there is a verification of member ‘good standing’ with your Local that must take place before final approval of each online application.
Kin Care Issues
As was mentioned in the SFO Grievance Committee letter to the membership dated January 7, 2019, United Airlines initiated several administrative changes to their Kin Care Policy, as of December 1, 2018, including a two-hour minimum usage provision as well as auto-designation of sick time taken for one’s self as Kin Care. Additionally, the Company indicated in their communication that any sick time taken to care for an ill qualifying family member on a trade day was ineligible for use as Kincare.
The union has taken several steps to protect your rights. First, there were two grievances filed with the company. The first deals with the issue of trade days and was filed to make certain that the Company is not trying to reinterpret the language in the CBA that allows a member to utilize the sick time, and hence Kin Care, for a Trade Day/Shift. The second grievance is against the two-hour minimum usage and auto-designation provisions of the new policy.
Additionally, the Union filed a complaint with the State of California Office of Labor Standards Enforcement on the basis that the company is violating the California Labor Code with these modifications of its policy.
We will be sure to keep you informed of any developments along both of these fronts moving forward. Thanks for your patience while we work to resolve these issues on your behalf.
Pre-Retirement Seminar on Saturday, February 9th at Local 856
TeamstersSFO will host our annual Pre-Retirement Seminar this coming Saturday, February 9th, at Local 856. The address is 453 San Mateo Avenue in San Bruno. The event will be held from 9 a.m. until 12 noon. Light refreshments will be provided and there is plenty of convenient parking nearby.
Please note also that an updated Survivor Benefits Guide for 2019 has been posted on the TeamstersSFO website. You should read the guide beforehand so you can get any questions you have answered at the event.
We look forward to seeing you on Saturday!
Grievance Update
There are eight grievances at the Arbitration (4th) Step of the grievance process. Of those, two are termination cases. One has been heard and is awaiting a decision and one is awaiting an arbitrator/date assignment. Of the other six arbitration cases, one has been heard (MealP-post DOR) and is awaiting the decision which was delayed by the arbitrator and is now expected by Mid-March. Two grievances are scheduled for February 20th in Miami (HRA/RHA cap for 2017) and April 4th in Chicago (SFOLX EFS Bypass). Two grievances are in a holding pattern, one pending discussions with the Company (PCL Closing Columns) and the other pending an arbitration decision for a related grievance (GSE Lead Calculation). We are actively trying to schedule the remaining grievance (SFOMM EFS Bypass) with the Company at this time.
There are a total of twenty-four 3rd Step Grievances in the pipeline. The next SBA dates are March 26th and 27th. We anticipate presenting a total of six to eight grievances at the System Board. We will be entering into discussions this coming week with Labor Relations to determine which grievances, if any, are candidates for discussion/settlement after which we will select the cases for March dates. We will be sure to keep you posted, either through the next BA Report or through your Shop Stewards.
The remaining SBA dates at SFO for 2019 have been tentatively assigned and are as follows: May 14th and 15th; August 21st and 22nd; November 12th and 13th.
The End of an Era: Bruce Rollin Retires!
Top Row L to R: Mark DesAngles; Javier Lectora; Fred Wood
Bottom Row: Bruce Rollin and Debbie Crummey
Bruce started his career as a machinist in 1964 and spent nearly 54 years with United Airlines! He was a fixture in the metrology lab for many years where he was responsible for calibrating equipment used to make precision parts for the airline; a job that is instrumental in providing the airline with reliable components. Bruce was also awarded the Charles Taylor “Master Mechanic” Award in 2014, which recognizes a lifetime of accomplishments for senior aircraft technicians and is the highest honor that the FAA can bestow upon those in this field.
Just as important, Bruce was a true Union man at his core and served as a Shop Steward dating back as far as anyone can remember. He rarely missed a Craft Meeting and he was always game for a good union rally. His dedication to his Craft and to the Labor Movement will be greatly missed.
Thank you for your service, Brother Bruce! We wish you many happy years of joyful retirement!
Labor History for the Month of January
January 4, 1965: Eight thousand social workers represented by two different unions in New York City go on strike over workload and wages. Mayor Robert Wagner fired all of the strikers and threw nineteen leaders in jail for two weeks, but the workers won the strike within a month. Supported by organized labor, the civil rights movement, and a community coalition, it was the longest labor action by public employees in the history of New York City.
November 7, 1945: Machinists in Stamford, Connecticut, go on strike when the Yale and Towne lock company terminates its contractual obligations and withdraws recognition of their union. The company’s union-busting effort was met with a city-wide general strike on January 3 in which 10,000 people marched and rallied in support of the workers. By early April, the company conceded.
We must never forget!
Labor Quotes
In our glorious fight for civil rights, we must guard against being fooled by false slogans, as 'right-to-work.' It provides no 'rights' and no 'works.' Its purpose is to destroy labor unions and the freedom of collective bargaining... We demand this fraud be stopped - Martin Luther King, Jr.
Those who profess to favor freedom, and yet deprecate agitation, are men who want crops without plowing up the ground. They want rain without thunder and lightning - Frederick Douglass
Those who expect to reap the blessings of freedom must, like men, undergo the fatigue of supporting it -Thomas Paine
Our Commitment to Communication
The communication process is an extremely important part of what we do to represent our folks here at SFO and, as we have been outlining for quite some time, we have been blasting out the BA Report along with any other communication we get from the Airline Division or the International to anyone who registers at the TeamstersSFO website. We feel that it is essential for all of our members to be engaged and informed at all times. Therefore, we encourage all of you to spread the word to your fellow technicians to go to the TeamstersSFO website and click on the ‘email signup’ tab to get on the list.
Additionally, the Chief Stewards hold weekly meetings with the Shop Stewards to pass on any important informational items that may come up during the month. It is crucial to our process that every work area on every shift have Shop Steward representation and that the Shop Steward give, at a minimum, weekly briefings to his/her crew so that all the information gets to our members and members have the opportunity to ask questions.
Most importantly, we urge you to also consider getting more involved. Every month, on the last Thursday, we hold Craft Meetings at Local 856. At these meetings, the membership hears reports from the Business Agents and other members of the SFO Committee on Grievances, Safety, Member Assistance, and the TSAP program. Additionally, all members have an opportunity to ask questions and to bring up topics for discussion. Check your IBT Bulletin Board for dates and times and make it a point to stop by whenever you can.
As always, stay informed!
In Solidarity
Mark DesAngles Javier Lectora
Business Agent Business Agent
Local 986 Local 856
Airline Division Week in Review — January 21, 2019
SWA Material Specialist TA Agreement Raises Standards for Workers in the Airline Industry
The Teamsters have reached a tentative agreement with Southwest Airlines on behalf of members who work as material specialists for the commercial carrier. The nearly 300 material specialists at Southwest oversee the company’s technical operation inventory management across the network.
SWA Material Specialist TA Agreement Raises Standards for Workers in the Airline Industry
The Teamsters have reached a tentative agreement with Southwest Airlines on behalf of members who work as material specialists for the commercial carrier. The nearly 300 material specialists at Southwest oversee the company’s technical operation inventory management across the network.
“I would like to thank the committee for their hard work and dedication to bringing forward this industry-leading tentative agreement to the membership,” said Captain David Bourne, Director of the Teamsters Airline Division. “Our members are true aviation professionals, and this agreement will recognize them as such.”
The Southwest material specialists are members of Teamsters Locals 986, 104, 781, 19, 769 and 210. The agreement contains a number of significant improvements in wages and benefits.
Local 357 President Discusses Assisting Air Traffic Controllers During Government Shutdown
Teamsters Local 357 President Josh LeBlanc was interviewed by BTC Radio this week concerning the government shutdown and what his Local did to assist air traffic controllers. Captain LeBlanc is an 18-year veteran of Republic Airline. LeBlanc discussed the shutdown’s impact on morale and financial stability for workers and what Local 357 did to assist air traffic controllers in need. The 10-minute interview can be listened to at https://btcnews.co/2Cr3uF0. BTC Radio, produced and published by the Business Travel Coalition is distributed to some 4,000 government officials, 16,000 press and 40,000 industry participants and is hosted on 9 podcast platforms, e.g., iTunes.
Airline Industry News
Governmental & Regulatory
Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, has been appointed chairman of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee's Aviation and Space Subcommittee. "We look forward to working with Senate Commerce Committee chairman [Roger] Wicker, Aviation Subcommittee chairman Cruz and the other committee leadership members on issues that will advance the commercial aviation industry for the traveling and shipping public," said Airlines for America in a statement.
Airlines, Industry and Labor
Nippon Cargo Airlines and Atlas Air have expanded their agreement by adding three NCA-owned 747-400s for its operational agreement with Atlas Air to begin routes in April, July and September of this year. "NCA was selected Atlas Air to operate its entire 747-400F fleet, and we look forward to continuing to provide NCA and its customers with an unmatched service and a platform for future global expansion," said Atlas Air President and CEO William Flynn.
In 2018, Boeing delivered 806 jetliners, surpassing its previous annual delivery high of 763 in 2017. Airbus also made aircraft deliveries in high numbers, reporting 800 jetliners delivered in 2018.
As the former president, CEO and chairman of American Airlines, Robert Crandall formed an easy friendship with his competitor from Southwest Airlines, Herb Kelleher, who passed away last week. Crandall remembers Kelleher as a savvy businessman who also "had an effervescent sense of humor and liked to take ordinary situations and turn them into fun events if he could."
United Airlines' fourth-quarter earnings beat analysts' expectations, despite higher-than-expected fuel costs in 2018. In an effort to earn more customers, the airline has been focused on improving its on-time performance, reducing canceled flights and launching 93 new routes last year.
Alexandre de Juniac, CEO of the International Air Transport Association, predicts that commercial electric aircraft will start entering the market over the next 15 years. Industry watchers can also expect increased air-traffic congestion and a more streamlined security and customs experience for passengers.
Aviation industry observers including journalists and consultants and predictions offer insights about how the industry could change and grow in 2019.
A CNBC reporter gets behind the controls at the United Airlines Flight Training Center in Denver. The training center features 31 simulators and plans to add nine more in the next 12 to 18 months.
Building-permit applications show that FedEx has big plans for its hub at Tennessee's Memphis International Airport, which handles more than 450 daily arrivals and departures. FedEx announced in March plans for $1 billion in improvements to be made at the hub from 2019 through 2025.
Thinking of retirement?
Come to our Pre-Retirement Seminar!
Teamsters SFO is hosting a pre-retirement seminar for all active and retired Mechanics & Related members at United Airlines in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Come to our Pre-Retirement Seminar!
Teamsters SFO is hosting a pre-retirement seminar for all active and retired Mechanics & Related members at United Airlines in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Saturday, February 9, 2019
9 AM - 12 PM
Teamsters 856
453 San Mateo Ave., San Bruno
Light refreshments will be provided.
Parking is available on the street and in the parking lot through the alley across the street from Teamsters 856.
Teamsters Aviation Mechanics Coalition Newsletter
December 2018 | Volume 9, Issue 4
Check out the Winter 2018 edition of the TAMC Newsletter! In this edition, we cover Teamsters Disaster Relief following hurricanes and wildfires, ramp safety, TAMC outreach and much more!
December 2018 | Volume 9, Issue 4
Check out the Winter 2018 edition of the TAMC Newsletter! In this edition, we cover Teamsters Disaster Relief following hurricanes and wildfires, ramp safety, TAMC outreach and much more!
Mechanics Dispatch — December 13, 2018
News & Updates
LOA #29 – Industry Reset, the first update of the Reset Cost Model has just been performed, comparing updated pay and other economic items for technicians at United Airlines, Delta Airlines and American Airlines. Financial and actuarial analysts from both the IBT and United Airlines recently met to review data, update the cost model and to calculate a new relative value.
Dear Members,
LOA #29 – Industry Reset, the first update of the Reset Cost Model has just been performed, comparing updated pay and other economic items for technicians at United Airlines, Delta Airlines and American Airlines. Financial and actuarial analysts from both the IBT and United Airlines recently met to review data, update the cost model and to calculate a new relative value. The updated output from the cost model indicates that the overall value of United Airlines technician’s contract items remains well above the two percent minimum advantage over Delta and American, as required in LOA #29. As shown below, the cost model analysis indicates that the overall value of United Technician’s selected contract items is 7.7 Percent above the average value of those items at Delta and American.
This result is not surprising considering two main factors affecting the updated valuation:
No significant change for American Airlines’ technicians since 2016, and
A material increase in United technicians’ retirement benefit costs.
While there have been some significant improvements in Delta technicians’ pay and profit-sharing since 2016, the value of these improvements was undermined by the stagnant value of the technicians contract at American Airlines, where they have not yet reached a new Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA). In addition, the relative value of the United technicians’ contract has increased due to a large increase in the valuation of the defined benefit plan, CARP, which now includes UA technicians. The improvements in United technicians’ retirement plan and pay rates combined with the lack of progress at American have resulted in the value of United technicians’ contract items to remain well above the minimum two percent threshold compared to Delta and American (as required in LOA #29). Therefore, no pay increase is due from the first round of the reset analysis that was performed in December of 2018.
However, the Reset Cost Model would have determined that a 1.4 percent pay increase was due to United technicians if technicians at American Airlines (and former US Airways) were able to reach a JCBA in the past two years that contained improvements equivalent to those in the United JCBA. These would include a base pay increase, A&P license pay, line pay, VEBA, vacation hours, medical cost sharing, retirement pay and profit sharing. If American technicians agree to a JCBA over the next two years, in addition to reaching wages and other improvements that are equivalent to or better than those contained in the current UA JCBA, the reset evaluation in 2020 will most likely provide an improvement to United technician pay rates.
The data, methodology and results of the 2018 reset evaluation were calculated, evaluated and assessed by IBT’s external financial analyst Dan Akins and by IBT’s external actuary, Peter Hardcastle. The data, methodology and results of the 2018 reset evaluation have been deemed to be reasonable and accurate. The large increase in the cost of United’s retirement plan was reviewed by Mr. Hardcastle, who states the following:
“I met with United's external actuary to discuss the methodology and assumptions behind the calculation of the cost of CARP. The methodology used by United's actuary considers the market value of the accruals and is consistent with U.S. accounting standards. The cost is based solely on the population of United mechanics and only relates to the cost of benefit accruals for the year. I am in agreement with the methodology used, and I know from experience that the results lie within the range of my expectations. The increase in United's service cost for CARP since 2016, as applied in the cost model, is consistent with my expectation given the increase in benefit population due to the inclusion of the larger and more senior UA Mechanics group, as well as a further drop in the discount rate since 2016.”
Both Mr. Akins and Mr. Hardcastle agree that the relative value of the items as calculated by the cost model indicate a 7.7 percent relative advantage of the United technicians’ contract items compared to the average value of those same items at Delta and American. The next update of the cost model will be undertaken in early December of 2020, when the then current values of the five contract items will be recalculated and assessed.
In Solidarity,
Vinny Graziano
Mechanics Dispatch — November 28, 2018
Update Regarding Industry Reset
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Business agents from all across the United Airlines System and Airline Division Representatives met at IBT headquarters in Washington D.C. today, where they listened to a presentation from Economist Dan Akins that addressed the Industry Reset (LOA 29). The purpose of this meeting was to determine the state of the industry regarding pay and the possibilities of pursuing a pay adjustment for United workers represented by the IBT.
Update Regarding Industry Reset
Dear Brothers and Sisters,
Business agents from all across the United Airlines System and Airline Division Representatives met at IBT headquarters in Washington D.C. today, where they listened to a presentation from Economist Dan Akins that addressed the Industry Reset (LOA 29). The purpose of this meeting was to determine the state of the industry regarding pay and the possibilities of pursuing a pay adjustment for United workers represented by the IBT.
Although there is slight disagreement on the exact values calculated to create the percentage average described in LOA 29, even with the most aggressive numbers the United Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) still puts us outside the two percent threshold that requires an adjustment when compared to the average for Delta Air Lines and American Airlines. A large reason for this is the failure to finalize an agreement at American Airlines, as well as a United CBA that remains superior to both companies. Although Delta Air Lines shows a slight wage increase over United mechanics, the LOA states that the two carriers will create an average value that must be at least 2 percent over United. With American Airlines making slightly less, the average puts Delta and American Airlines slightly below United (please note that the calculations used were prior to the upcoming United pay increase scheduled in December of this year).
To ensure that the numbers the company provided are correct, we have asked Mr. Akins and an outside actuary, Peter Hardcastle, to continue the review that had already begun under the LOA. These numbers need to be verifiable to both parties for the next measurement period with the hope being that American Airlines will reach a deal by that time. After this review is complete, a report will be shared with the membership in the same fashion as the 2016 dispatch that laid out the industry average.
In Solidarity,
Vinny Graziano
November 2018 Business Agents' Report
Teamster Member Assistance Program Training held September 26th-28th
Once a year, the Teamster Member Assistance Program (TMAP) Regional Coordinators put together a training session for the TMAP volunteers from around the system. This year, the training was held at the Los Altos Jesuit Retreat Center on September 26th thru September 28th.
Teamster Member Assistance Program Training held September 26th-28th
Once a year, the Teamster Member Assistance Program (TMAP) Regional Coordinators put together a training session for the TMAP volunteers from around the system. This year, the training was held at the Los Altos Jesuit Retreat Center on September 26th thru September 28th.
The event was attended by 18 volunteers representing LAX, IAH, ORD, DEN, EWR, PHX, CLE as well as our two SFO volunteers, Chris Curtis (MM) and Bryan Bartling (RQ). In preparation, our two SFO Regional Coordinators, Steve Crummey and Steve Loone worked the logistics of the event, including transportation and resource gathering, and assisted the other system Regional Coordinators, Caleb Good (ORD), Mike Brooks (DEN) and Dominic Fiero (IAH) with developing the agenda and selecting presenters for the 3-day session.
The training included discussions on Prescription Drugs in a DOT environment, including Opiates and THC, Leave of Absences and Workers Comp Guidelines as well as Ethics, Benefits, FMLA, LTD insurance and the sharing of experiences from around the system to better serve our membership.
A special thanks to the Local 986 Principal Officer Chris Griswold and Local 856 Principal Officer Peter Finn for their continued support of this extremely important program. Thanks also to the two Steves for helping put this event together and for all of the outstanding work they do for our members on a daily basis.
If you or anyone you work with is having trouble coping with a personal problem that is affecting their work or, you just want some info on FMLA, State Disability, Paid Family Leave, a benefits question or just an ear to listen. Reach out to our TMAP Coordinators Steve Crummey (Jet Shop/Backsops) 650-745-5867 or Steve Loone (Airframe/MM) 650-745-5864.
Aflac Representatives Visit SFO
Aflac representatives spent several weeks here at SFO last month and we were able to make them accessible to nearly every work area at the Base and the Line on all three shifts. These folks are providing a dynamic set of insurance products, including Whole Life Insurance, Critical Illness, Accident Insurance and Short-Term Disability, to supplement and solidify your personal insurance portfolio and plug all the gaps in your coverage. Additionally, we were able to get another round of ‘guaranteed issuance’ approved by Aflac for this year so that our folks again were able to sign up for any of the products offered without undergoing any type of physical evaluation. Overall, it was a very successful effort and we want to say ‘Thanks’ to all of the TeamstersSFO Committee members who spent long hours escorting Aflac personnel around SFO. Special thanks to Coordinator Fred Wood, who spearheaded the logistics of this Aflac visit, which was no small accomplishment.
Family Day at the Base
United Airlines held another family day at the Base on Sunday, October 7th. At the Teamster table, our TeamtersSFO Committee members were joined by reps from the Aflac team and folks from the WE Rise SF Labor Center. The team handed out TeamstersSFO water bottles and pens as well as a number of other goodies. The overwhelming favorite moment of the day occurred when one of the young visitors got a special gift from the Aflac folks. We thought that we would share the moment because it really signifies what the day is about. Thanks to Fred Wood for the fabulous photo.
SFO Grievance Update
We had an arbitration hearing in Chicago for a contract grievance (MEALP) and we are currently awaiting the decision. We also had an arbitration hearing on Wednesday, November 14th, for a terminated member.
The System Board deadlocked for another contract grievance (EFS Bypass) and it has been appealed to the 4th Step (Arbitration). We now have three contract cases (EFS Bypass, PCL closing DAT columns, and GSE Lead pay) that have been appealed to arbitration and are awaiting agreement on arbitrators/dates from the Company. Also, another contract grievance (HAS/HRA for 2017) has already been scheduled for February 21st in Miami, Florida.
We have System Boards scheduled for January 22nd and 23rd of 2019 and we intend to present three 3rd Step grievances each of those days. We have scheduled preliminary discussions with Labor Relations beginning next week to discuss about 10 current 3rd Step grievances in the pipeline to see if there is an appetite on the Company side to settle the grievances before we have to hear them. Whichever grievances are not settled will then be ranked by priority and the top six will get heard in January.
There is also ongoing settlement discussions around another contract grievance (2nd EFS Bypass) where the System Board hearing in September was suspended and the grievance remanded back to the parties for disposition. Failure to reach an agreement will mean that another System Board will have to be scheduled for the case. We are hoping that this will not be the case.
A Few Words about some Important Issues
One of the things we do in our grievance update is provide some information about termination hearings at System Board or Arbitration. You might have also noted that we do not provide any details about those terminations. That’s mainly because of our privacy obligations to our members. As a result, we generally do not announce details of our successful attempts to get our folks back to work, despite the significant amount of time we spend on termination-related issues. However, we do feel that it is important for our members to know some important information regarding some disturbing trends we are seeing. These have to do with members having confrontations and also with members signing for work that they did not complete. We should not have to say how important it is for you to not engage in either of these behaviors. But we are mentioning it because this type of stuff is happening way too much. And if you are involved in a physical or verbal confrontation that gets out of hand or you are irresponsible enough to sign for work that you have not accomplished, there is a very good chance that you are going to end up on the outside looking in, wondering how you are going to feed your family. Those folks who have been on the outside know just how hard it is to get back in and the significant time and effort it takes on the Union’s part to make that happen. But we are not always successful. And when we are not successful, there is a good chance that one of these two issues were the reason. Don’t do it. Enough said.
2019 Craft Meetings Schedules
We are always striving to have the right balance of floor time and craft meeting time every month. After receiving much feedback on the issue, we have decided that we will move the Swing shift Craft Meeting start time back to 11pm. Midnight meetings and Dayshift meetings will remain unchanged at 7am and 3pm, respectively. We will also continue our commitment of rotating monthly floor visits to Airframe, Jet Shop, Backshops, and the Line on all three shifts, but we are also going to mix up days because we got some feedback that we were missing a whole segment of the population by consistently visiting on the same days every moth. Thank you all for your feedback and we look forward to seeing you all in the New Year.
Happy Thanksgiving
We want to wish you all a very Happy Thanksgiving and a wonderful Holiday Season! This is the time of year for us all to enjoy time with family and friends and to reflect on our achievements and to set next year’s goals for both life and work. And to try not to eat too much!
If you have an opportunity, please also do something positive for your community this season. It is good for the soul. And there are many folks out there who are in desperate need. We all have a responsibility to help in some small way.
Have a fabulous New Year and see you in 2019!
Stay Informed
The communication process is an extremely important part of what we do to represent our folks here at SFO and, as we have been outlining for quite some time, we have been blasting out the BA Report along with any other communication we get from the Airline Division or the International to anyone who registers at the TeamstersSFO website. We feel that it is essential for all of our members to be engaged and informed at all times. Therefore, we encourage all of you to spread the word to your fellow technicians to go to the TeamstersSFO website and click on the ‘email signup’ tab to get on the list.
Additionally, the Chief Stewards hold weekly meetings with the Shop Stewards to pass on any important informational items that may come up during the month. It is crucial to our process that every work area on every shift have Shop Steward representation and that the Shop Steward give, at a minimum, weekly briefings to his/her crew so that all the information gets to our members and members have the opportunity to ask questions.
Most importantly, we urge you to also consider getting more involved. Every month, on the last Thursday, we hold Craft Meetings at Local 856. At these meetings, the membership hears reports from the Business Agents and other members of the SFO Committee on Grievances, Safety, Member Assistance, and the TSAP program. Additionally, all members have an opportunity to ask questions and to bring up topics for discussion. Check your IBT Bulletin Board for dates and times and make it a point to stop by whenever you can.
As always, stay informed!
In Solidarity
Mark DesAngles Javier Lectora
Business Agent Business Agent
Local 986 Local 856
Airline Division Week in Review — November 11, 2018
IBT Locals Join Forces to Provide Hurricane Disaster Relief
We may never be able to fully understand the path of Mother Nature’s fury. Or why storms move the way they do, leaving a swath of destruction on one side of a street and the other side remains untouched. What we do know is the human tragedy in terms of lives and property destroyed and the immediate need for assistance to those left in the path of the fury.
IBT Locals Join Forces to Provide Hurricane Disaster Relief
We may never be able to fully understand the path of Mother Nature’s fury. Or why storms move the way they do, leaving a swath of destruction on one side of a street and the other side remains untouched. What we do know is the human tragedy in terms of lives and property destroyed and the immediate need for assistance to those left in the path of the fury.
Local 769 Business Agent David Renshaw has been up close and personal on more than one occasion. It was 26 years ago when he and his family weathered the monster known as Hurricane Andrew that devastated their home and belongings. Last year after Hurricane Maria levelled Puerto Rico, he was a key point of contact in marshalling not only supplies, but in securing both airlift with Airline Division member airlines and sealift with Crowley Shipping to get urgently needed supplies to Puerto Rico. Working hand in hand with Division Director David Bourne and multiple other local Unions and Joint for TLU 901 in Puerto Rico, Teamsters were a major force in the effort to get help to those in need. In the Northeast, VP George Miranda worked coordinating supplies and volunteers to take personal time to fly there and help folks in need. In addition to helping the people of Puerto Rico, he oversaw multiple deliveries of truckloads of food, water and supplies to the victims in the Florida Keys that came from across the nation.
And yet again, with the impact of yet another hurricane this year, Teamsters have stood up to help fellow Americans in need. Hurricane Michael, which appeared to pose some threat to the Florida Panhandle did what so many storms did; it turned into a monster when people weren’t looking and gave little or no time to react. The result was utter devastation in areas that least expected it and were ill equipped to deal with the aftermath. Hurricane Michael in terms of pressure was the third-most intense Atlantic hurricane to make landfall, in addition it was the strongest storm on record to strike the Florida Panhandle.
Brother Renshaw, now with an unplanned new title as Southeast Regional Disaster Coordinator stepped up, under the direction of Roy Gillespie of the Teamsters National Disaster Relief coordinator. Working hand in hand with Local 991and Joint Council 75, the AFL-CIO reached out to the Teamsters and joined hands for a union colocation relief team along with others to mount a massive support effort for the people of the Florida Panhandle who have had their lives upended now. While we all saw the pictures from the security and warmth of our homes, David and others have been on the front line since days after the storm hit.
“I had paramedics from South Florida positioned there before the storm hit,” he said. “And what we have seen and witnessed firsthand defies words. Cities like Mexico no longer exist. It’s not a matter of just restoring power and water…there’s nothing to restore and nothing to restore it to. The towns are gone. Just like a bomb had been dropped on them. Roads aren’t damaged, they no longer exist. Infrastructure is gone. Towns like Panama City, Blountstown, Port St. Joe also took a devastating hit as their sense of normality has been turned upside down, some with nothing but the clothes on their back and a few personal belongs they have. This is a long-term recovery.”
How your Local Union and Joint Council can help our Brothers & Sisters and their community in need is the following:
Monetary donations, contact: Jim Gookins-Principal Officer TLU 991 (251) 433.1521
Donate goods, contact: Jim Schurling-President JC 75 (904) 786.7649
Local teachers; members of the FL Educational Association, joined by school administrative staff and members of the FL AFL-CIO, joined in with members of the IBT to unload the first delivery of disaster relief supplies for residents of Franklin County after the devastating hurricane. The delivery, as well as most of the others, were daunting as the roads; in many areas were completely destroyed. Working in coordination with local law enforcement and others, members of the IBT and AFL-CIO went out first to find roads that were able to handle trucks and ensure they were safe to drive on.
“Hotshot” is a term used to describe a short notice call for immediate assistance. This photo is right after such a delivery. An IBT Local 991 Steward contacted the crew who was able to get an immediate delivery of supplies to a local church whose pastor was coordinating donations and distribution to many elderly people and those who had no access to transportation. IBT Disaster Coordinator and Local 769 Business Agent David Renshaw is in the foreground with Brother Roy Gillespie, IBT Disaster Relief Coordinator (Second on right)
Volunteers led by IBT Hurricane Relief Coordinator Roy Gillespie and the local AFL-CIO; worked long days driving to inaccessible, rural areas to ensure that elderly hurricane victims and others were supplied with critical assistance and checked on to make sure they were safe. With the outstanding assistance of Costco in Tallahassee, FL they were able to marshal much needed supplies, which were sorted and palletized by Costco employees to streamline the delivery process.
Teamsters Aviation Mechanics Coalition Newsletter
October 2018 | Volume 9, Issue 3
In this edition, we cover NTSB crash investigation training, the fall safety infoshare, the Local 210 United Airlines Shop Steward Training and much more!
October 2018 | Volume 9, Issue 3
Check out the Fall 2018 edition of the TAMC Newsletter! In this edition, we cover NTSB crash investigation training, the fall safety infoshare, the Local 210 United Airlines Shop Steward Training and much more!
Highlights from UAL Teamster Member Assistance Training
Our annual, Local 856 and Local 986 sponsored Teamster Member Assistance Program (TMAP ) 3-day training event too place September 26 - 28, at the Los Altos Jesuit Retreat Center.
Our annual, Local 856 and Local 986 sponsored Teamster Member Assistance Program (TMAP ) 3-day training event too place September 26 - 28, at the Los Altos Jesuit Retreat Center.
Eighteen Member Assistance Reps flew in from ORD, EWR, CLE, PHX, IAH and LAX to attend the training.
Our five full-time TMAP Coordinators put together the training program for the 18 volunteers who attended. We covered benefits, leaves of absence, workers comp, DOT regs for opiates and THC for FAA licensed mechanics, ethics, and workplace roleplay scenarios.
The Teamsters SFO members who attended were TMAP Coordinators Steve Crummey and Steve Loome, and well as our volunteer reps, Bryan Bartling and Chris Curtis with Jim Mckeever and Rudy Silva from LAX.
Mechanics Dispatch — September 24, 2018
NEWS & UPDATES
With open enrollment right around the corner, October 8-26 for employees and October 29-November 9th for retirees, it is important that you are aware of changes to your benefit choices. The Company flyer is in the mail or you have already received it.
NEWS & UPDATES
With open enrollment right around the corner, October 8-26 for employees and October 29-November 9th for retirees, it is important that you are aware of changes to your benefit choices. The Company flyer is in the mail or you have already received it.
Medical
There are new options this year. The BYO plans are being replaced with EPO plans. Be aware of what the default options are.
Dental
The MetLife plans are being replaced and will be offered by Cigna.
LTD
Long-Term Disability (LTD) will be offered through Prudential rather than MetLife. If you are currently enrolled in LTD you will default to Prudential starting in 2019.
Employees who wish to enroll in LTD during Open enrollment will not be required to show Evidence of insurability through Prudential.
This is a one-time exception where Evidence of Insurability will be waived for those choosing to enroll in LTD during Open enrollment.
Benefit fairs are being scheduled around the country. Take the opportunity to review all the changes in Benefits.
Aflac
Year one is almost complete for enrolling in the voluntary programs being offered through Aflac. Over 5000 members have enrolled in a plan(s) to date. The plans offered are Short-term disability, Critical Illness, Whole Life Insurance and Accident Insurance. We have been able to negotiate Guaranteed Issue on pricing and the plans for 2019 the same as 2018. These plans are voluntary, and you have the option to take any combination of plans, a single plan or none, the choice is yours. Aflac enrollers will be visiting stations to explain the plans and take enrollment requests.
Fraternally,
Ken Meidinger
UAL Benefits Coordinator
September 2018 Business Agents' Report
Lying Liars and the Lies They Tell
It has generally been our policy not to address the barrage of misleading information, personal attacks, recycled fliers from the 1990’s, half-truths and outright lies that have been circulated around the Base for a while now because we know that most folks remember what happened when Jim Seitz previously had an opportunity to lead. But, in some cases, we must make an exception. That’s because Jim’s lies now have a real possibility of hurting our members. It is there that we must draw the line.
Lying Liars and the Lies They Tell
It has generally been our policy not to address the barrage of misleading information, personal attacks, recycled fliers from the 1990’s, half-truths and outright lies that have been circulated around the Base for a while now because we know that most folks remember what happened when Jim Seitz previously had an opportunity to lead. But, in some cases, we must make an exception. That’s because Jim’s lies now have a real possibility of hurting our members. It is there that we must draw the line.
First off, none of the stuff we are going to talk about is new. Our Stewards here at SFO have been briefed on all of this information from the beginning on an ongoing basis and, in turn, this information has been passed to the floor. Throughout the last year or so, we have also spoken to many of you directly about this issue, as we have fielded many questions on the topic. But we also recognize that how much of the entire story each individual member knows is always a function of many factors. Therefore, we think it is a very good exercise to go back and summarize the entire process for you in one shot. Then, you be the judge.
The first issue we will discuss is the attendance policy and the assertion that it came into being through an LOA between the UAL and the IBT. That is simply false. Jim is practicing an age-old guerilla tactic here: If you say something enough times, people will eventually start to take it as fact. But we did not agree to this policy, folks. The Company announced and implemented the policy all by itself. And, at that time, we immediately began internal discussions, including consultations with attorneys, to determine our options for dealing with it. Through this process, one thing became very clear: There is no law prohibiting any company from implementing an attendance policy in any workplace, even if is a point-based policy. Also, United’s establishment of a point-based attendance policy does not, in and of itself, violate the Collective Bargaining Agreement. That is the reality of the situation. However, no provisions of an attendance policy can violate the CBA. And we believe that some of the provisions and related practices of the attendance policy do, in fact, violate the CBA. We will detail those for you later.
But first, back to the beginning. There are two primary strategies when dealing with a policy that contains any provisions that may violate the CBA. The first is to file a single grievance against the entire policy in the hopes that you can get the whole thing thrown out by an arbitrator. This is more of a longshot approach unless the entire premise of the policy violates the CBA. The second strategy is to file individual grievances against any portion of the policy which is offensive to the CBA as it is implemented. This is generally the more effective approach, as it focuses directly on the offending provisions or practices contained in the policy. At the time, we decided to do both, despite it being redundant.
Now, there was one particularly offensive clause of the attendance policy that we are sure you will all remember: The ‘conversion’ table. When the Company applied these conversions for the transition to the new attendance policy, many members suddenly found themselves precariously close to zero points. Although we believed that these conversion tables were indefensible and that, ultimately, once they were brought before an Arbitrator, any terminations that resulted from their use had a very good chance of not meeting the ‘just cause’ standard, there was still a significant concern.
Because it takes time to get through the Arbitration process. And many leaders were uncomfortable with having any members who were unfairly terminated sitting out there for an extended period of time waiting for the process to work itself out and trying to figure out how to put food on the table. This was the primary issue at hand when the Business Agents met to discuss the ramifications of the attendance policy in 2017. And that argument proved to be one that was very persuasive. So, with that in mind, it was agreed that the single-grievance approach would be discarded in return for all members being allotted a full balance of seven points. That is the agreement that was made. And whether or not an individual agrees or disagrees with that decision, as is their right, it was made because of concern for the membership.
Additionally, and most importantly, the Union expressly reserved the right to file individual grievances against the policy as it was applied and we have been doing so from the beginning. We have currently identified 6 buckets of et al grievances (which are filed on behalf of the entire system) containing a total of nearly 75 grievances. They are as follows:
1) No Union representation during management interactions
2) Being assessed Points while under a Doctors Care
3) Progressive Discipline (due to skipping steps for multiple incidents)
4) Not allowing Kincare usage for Self for 2017
5) Incentive Program discrimination against protected leaves (FMLA/Kincare)
6) Converting whole bid vacation weeks for FMLA
7) Lack of full point restoration after 1 year
Most of these grievances, with the exception of #7, are on the 3rd Step Docket and we will be sure to keep you informed of their progress as they move forward in the grievance process (as they had been in a holding pattern pending the outcome of the MCO discussions between the SF Office of Labor Standards Enforcement and UAL).
Now we must ask you to consider a simple question. If we are in agreement with the attendance policy, why would we have this many grievances against it?
Now let’s talk about the San Francisco Minimum Compensation Ordinance (MCO). Here is where it gets just plain weird when it comes to Jim and whoever is helping him produce these fliers. They have decided to forego all integrity in a blatant attempt to dupe the membership and claim responsibility for something with which they had no involvement for some political gain. It is sad.
To give you a clear picture, we are going to go back to the beginning again, to the time when the attendance policy was announced. After searching state and local laws and attendance ordinances, we initially did not find anything that would affect the implementation of the attendance policy. However, one of our Shop Stewards at the time did find the MCO and called the San Francisco Office of Labor Standards Enforcement to ask about it. After reporting to us that the Compliance Officer had agreed to look into the matter, we immediately assigned the Grievance Secretary to follow up. Since then, the Union has been kept appraised of the situation directly by the Compliance Officer, first through the Grievance Secretary, then through one of our attorneys, which we called shortly thereafter. Also, from the beginning, the Compliance Officer made it clear that she wanted only one point of contact from the IBT calling for information about the situation. That point of contact was assigned by us. Also made abundantly clear was the fact that this process and subsequent discussions were solely to occur between the Compliance Officer and United Airlines.
Once United was held to be out of compliance, there began an extended period of negotiations between United and the Compliance Officer and we were not involved in those discussions. All we were able to do is wait like everyone else and occasionally have our attorney check in with the Compliance Officer to gauge the progress. That is something that has been briefed extensively.
And it is an undeniable 100% fact that this group of ALTA jokers had absolutely no involvement whatsoever during these discussions. Period.
Let's look at a couple of the other more egregious lies told by the lying liars. First, we have not ever told anyone that the MCO “did not apply because we had a CBA”. That statement was made in reference to the California Paid Sick Leave Act (and it is true, by the way). Why the heck would say that about the MCO when we knew that the SF Compliance Office had informed United that it was out of compliance? It does not add up, folks. This is another trick typically employed by Jim and his bullcrap machine. These guys have completely lost all morality.
More importantly, and the primary reason for this information piece, is ALTA’s claim that “Employees cannot be disciplined for using their sick leave”. This is simply not true and we think it is dangerous and irresponsible for this type of false statement to be hurled at the membership. We do not want anyone taking this to heart and then getting themselves in trouble because of it. The irresponsibility and complete lack of integrity shown by Jim and his accomplices here, although very characteristic, is extremely troubling because of its potential negative impact on our membership!
Lastly, and also profoundly disturbing is ALTA’s latest attempt to smear the IBT using a bunch of made up statements supposedly attributed to the SF Compliance Officer. All of the Union’s interaction with her have been amicable and courteous and we have a tremendous amount of respect for the thoughtfulness and diligence with which she handled this process. It is, therefore, simply disgusting to us that these characters would stoop that low.
Now we want to focus on the agreement between the Compliance office and UAL regarding the MCO and what it means to you. The MCO has two primary elements. First, it allows for 12 paid days off per year. As it relates to you, this means that the first 12 days off in any calendar year, such as holidays, vacation, sick leave or any other paid days off, must be considered MCO days. Therefore, they cannot be subject to any point reduction or discipline as a result. The second element of the MCO is the allowance for 10 unpaid days in a calendar year. Unpaid MCO days could only be used when an employee has exhausted all paid time off available to him/her including Vacation Time, Sick Time, and Holidays (including Christmas). Because of that, unpaid MCO days can be utilized very rarely when it comes to our members.
Additionally, another condition of the agreement between the Office of Labor Standards Enforcement and United Airlines is the requirement for an audit to determine who has had points reduced and/or discipline assessed in violation of the MCO and for modifications to be made to their attendance record to reflect the MCO protections. That audit is ongoing. If you have any questions about the MCO and its implications, please see your Shop Steward or Chief Steward. If you are getting your information from anyone else, there is a good chance it is not going to be accurate. Remember, however, that it is ultimately the Company’s responsibility to comply with the agreement.
The Kincare Issue
We have been receiving many questions about the use of Kincare and how it relates to the Attendance Policy modification due to the MCO.
First, as we mentioned in the prior piece, we have an active grievance to address the issue of using Kincare for yourself in the year 2017 because the effective date of the California modification to Kincare usage was in early 2017. Many members were not afforded the opportunity to use Kincare for themselves at any time during 2017 because there was no notification of the change by the company. As we also mentioned, that grievance is ongoing and we will report any progress we make going forward.
However, what is most concerning our members now, is the rumor that any Sick Days taken them that fall under the 12 paid MCO days at the beginning of each calendar year will be automatically run concurrently as Kincare days by the Company. If it is true, the Union would certainly not be in agreement. Therefore, if any member calls in sick and is automatically assigned a Kincare day, we would like you to immediately contact your Shop Steward.
Teamsters National Black Caucus Meeting
There will be a Chapter Introduction Meeting of The Teamsters National Black Caucus (TNBC) at Teamsters Local 315 on Saturday, October 20th, from 9am-11am. The meeting will be hosted by Teamster Locals 315, 853, and 856. The purpose of the meeting will be for members to learn more about the TNBC to possibly start a NorCal Chapter. Incoming TNBC Chair James Curbeam will be the special guest speaker. All Teamster members are welcome. Teamsters Local 315 is located at 2727 Alhambra Ave in Martinez. We hope that you can make it by.
eTa System Deployment at SFO Leads to Confusion about Shift Trades
It is our understanding that the recently deployed eTa system at SFO may unfortunately not be allowing our members to schedule a second back-to-back
(double) shift in the same week. Article 7 (Hours of Service) is very clear on this matter. Specifically, Paragraph 7.M.1.d reads as follows:
Employees may trade for a maximum of four (4) additional shifts in any work week. Of these four (4) additional shifts, employees will be allowed to work a maximum of two (2) back-to-back (double) shifts per week, subject to the Duty Limitations set forth in Paragraph I above. (For example, an employee normally scheduled to work day shift with Saturday and Sunday off may work additional trade shifts on Monday and Tuesday, but would not be eligible to work a trade shift on Wednesday; he would then be eligible to work additional trade shifts on Thursday and Friday.)
This language is clear and unambiguous. If you are not able to schedule trades conforming to the example shown, please contact your Supervisor to make sure that the trades are entered into the system correctly. If you are denied the ability to execute this type of trade, please contact your Shop Steward.
Occupational Injuries
If you are injured at work, please remember that you are supposed to be coded OCC (Occupational) for payroll purposes from the very beginning. Some folks were under the impression that an employee would be coded N-Time (Sick) until the investigation and certification of the injury as Occupational by Sedgwick. That is simply not true. You must be coded as OCC and if it is subsequently found that your injury is not work-related, the Company has the right to reclassify that time as N-Time or UNP (Unpaid), depending on your sick balance. If you are injured and you paycert does not indicate OCC from the date of your injury forward, then please contact your Supervisor to have it changed. If you have any questions or concerns, please see your Shop Steward.
Hurricane Maria Raffle Winner
The winning raffle ticket was pulled at the August Dayshift Craft Meeting. We would like to congratulate the owner of the winning ticket, Mary Gutekanst who is an Avionics technician in SFORQ. Mary is the proud new owner of a Vizio 50-inch flat screen TV. Thanks to all who participated in this worthy cause!
Grievance Update
There were two days of System Board hearings in September. We had three termination cases and four contract cases on the docket. Ultimately, two grievances were withdrawn (Recall bypass) due to lack of merit and one grievance was settled (Lead Overtime Bypass). The remaining four cases were heard on September 11th and 12th.
There is also an Arbitration scheduled for October 17th in Chicago regarding the MEAL P (post Date of Ratification).
Stay Informed
The communication process is an extremely important part of what we do to represent our folks here at SFO and, as we have been outlining for quite some time, we have been blasting out the BA Report along with any other communication we get from the Airline Division or the International to anyone who registers at the TeamstersSFO website. Additionally, there are weekly meetings held with the Shop Stewards to pass on any important informational items that may come up during the month. It is crucial to our process that every area on every shift has Shop Steward representation and that the Shop Steward give, at a minimum, weekly briefings to his/her crew so that all the information gets to our members. We feel that it is essential for all of our members to be engaged and informed at all times. Therefore, we encourage all of you to spread the word to your fellow technicians to go to the TeamstersSFO website and click on the ‘email signup’ tab to get on the list. And, most importantly, we urge you to also consider getting more involved. Every month, on the last Thursday, we hold Craft Meetings at Local 856. At these meetings, the membership hears reports from the Business Agents and other members of the SFO Committee on Grievances, Safety, Member Assistance, and TSAP. Additionally, all members have an opportunity to ask questions and to bring up topics for discussion. Check your IBT Bulletin Board for dates and times and make it a point to stop by.
As always, stay informed!
In Solidarity
Mark DesAngles Javier Lectora
Business Agent Business Agent
Local 986 Local 856
Airline Division Week in Review — Labor Day 2018
Southwest Material Specialists vote down, “Last, Best and Final” offer, file for mediation.
On August 28th, Material Specialists at Southwest rejected the company’s “Last, Best and Final” contract offer. The Union and Company jointly filed for Mediation. The National Mediation Board has responded and assigned a case number. As of this time, no dates for the first meeting have been announced.
Southwest Material Specialists vote down, “Last, Best and Final” offer, file for mediation.
On August 28th, Material Specialists at Southwest rejected the company’s “Last, Best and Final” contract offer. The Union and Company jointly filed for Mediation. The National Mediation Board has responded and assigned a case number. As of this time, no dates for the first meeting have been announced.
Airline Industry News
Governmental, Regulatory and Industry
The Federal Aviation Administration announced its fourth round of airport infrastructure grants, totaling $616.9 million to fund 408 projects at 226 airports. Projects funded include runway and taxiway improvements, aprons, terminals, snow-removal equipment, and firefighting equipment and training.
United Continental Holdings, parent of United Airlines, will transfer its listing to the Nasdaq Global Select Market from the New York Stock Exchange on Sept. 7. "Their highly respected trading platform and marketing initiatives offer the most cost-effective listing alternative and support our work to deliver on our cost targets," United Chief Financial Officer Gerry Laderman said.
United Airlines is using iPads for aircraft maintenance, saving at least 17 minutes during maintenance. "The iPads give us that edge," said David Caster, maintenance manager. "It gives us efficiency we need that allows us to operate in a safe and on-time manner."
Labor Day 2018
On this weekend when millions of Americans celebrate the end of summer and the beginning of the school year, we wish to recall the true meaning of Labor Day; to honor the hard-working men and women who have built this nation. It is for them and their legacy, and each of you, that we honor those who have stood the test to make it possible for millions to enjoy the benefits that your solidarity has made possible.
Out of respect for those who led the way over the decades, for you and your union brothers and sisters and your families, and mindful of those who will follow you in the future, the offices of the Airline Division will be CLOSED on Monday, September 3rd. We will reopen for regular business on Tuesday morning, September 4th.
We wish you, your families and your union brothers and sisters a happy and safe Labor Day.
Mechanics Dispatch — August 20, 2018
Mechanics Update
Dear Members,
Several of you from around the system have asked me about the seniority grievance that was just recently arbitrated which would restore company seniority for those S-CAL and S-CMI members who had adjustments made in accordance with their respective agreements for periods of inactive service.
Mechanics Update
August 20, 2018
Dear Members,
Several of you from around the system have asked me about the seniority grievance that was just recently arbitrated which would restore company seniority for those S-CAL and S-CMI members who had adjustments made in accordance with their respective agreements for periods of inactive service.
The Arbitrator has ruled in favor of the Carrier and had denied the grievance, but did add the following recommendation:
“Despite the Boards recognition that is does not have the jurisdiction under the agreement to restore prior adjustments made to Company seniority at s-Continental and s-Micronesia, we recommend that the parties discuss the restoration of seniority solely for the purpose of vacation bidding”
To be clear, this recommendation, if acted on, would not restore or add any vacation time to any person’s bank. This would merely reorganize the order that members at different stations across the system could bid vacation time.
The union’s main concern was the overall impact to the membership at large and how that impact could affect bidding. After a thorough analysis the union learned that 7,621 members would be directly affected if this recommendation were to be implemented. Out of the 9,488 members in total 7,107 members are worse off for vacation bidding purposes then they are today.
After several discussions between the parties, the Carrier has made it clear that they do not intend to act on the arbitrator’s recommendations to its negative implications.
The division, along with the Business agents have come to the realization that attempting to pursue this matter flies in the face of every effort we have made to keep the historic order at each property entered into this merger. Not only does it negatively impact more then two thirds of the membership it will have negative implications to relative seniority as it pertains to vacation as well. Therefore, due to the overwhelming negative impact this would cause to our membership at large, the union has made the decision NOT to pursue this matter further.
For any further questions please feel free to reach out to your respective Business agents.
In Solidarity,
Vinny Graziano
Airline Division Week in Review — August 17, 2018
Southern Air pilots ratify Tentative Agreement
Pilots who fly for Southern Air, a subsidiary of Atlas Worldwide Holdings have ratified a Tentative Agreement that brings their contract on par with those of pilots at AAWW-owned Atlas Air. Pilots at both airlines are represented by their union, the Airline Pilots Association, Teamsters Local 1224.
Southern Air pilots ratify Tentative Agreement
Pilots who fly for Southern Air, a subsidiary of Atlas Worldwide Holdings have ratified a Tentative Agreement that brings their contract on par with those of pilots at AAWW-owned Atlas Air. Pilots at both airlines are represented by their union, the Airline Pilots Association, Teamsters Local 1224.
The LOA provides some temporary relief for the pilots who were forced to negotiate their contract with Southern Air during bankruptcy. As a result, Southern Air--which flies exclusively for DHL--has been unable to attract and retain pilots.
The voting period for the Southern Air LOA closed on Thursday, August 9th. Nearly 94% of their membership voted, with 181 (94.76% voting in favor and 10 opposing the agreement.
Teamsters win industry leading agreement for UPS Mechanics
After four years of bargaining, over one thousand three hundred UPS aircraft mechanics and related employees represented by Teamsters Local Union No. 2727 have secured significant raises in pay, improved retirement security and the protection of health care benefits in a new tentative contract agreement reached with the shipping company.
The tentative agreement, which will be voted on in the coming weeks by the Union’s membership, sets a new bar for aircraft mechanics in the U.S. airline industry, with pay rates and benefits that surpass those at FedEx and all other major U.S.-based carriers. Upon ratification of the new contract, Local 2727 members will become the highest paid aviation mechanics in the country by a wide margin.
“It’s because of the tremendous resolve and unity of our members and their families that we’re celebrating this historic agreement with UPS,” said Tim Boyle, President of Louisville-based Teamsters Local 2727. “We knew if we stuck together and stayed committed to protecting the pay and benefits we’ve earned over decades of hard work, we’d do what many thought was impossible and win big for our families, the future of our company and our customers. This contract does just that along with raising standards throughout the aviation industry.”
Highlights of the new tentative agreement include:
- Dramatic increases in pay for all mechanics and related employees, including an immediate 16 percent pay increase
- Three percent raises each year, resulting in a 30.7% increase in pay from current rates by the end of the contract
- Full retroactive pay for all hours worked from November 1, 2013 (the day the current contract first became amendable) to the date of ratification
- Protection of an unparalleled health care package with no premiums
- An increase in UPS’s pension contribution
“I want to extend my congratulations to the Teamsters Local 2727 negotiating committee. This agreement is the culmination of over four years of long hours, hard work and dedication from them. Their focus on improving the existing agreement and quality of life for our UPS members is what now enable us to bring this industry-leading contract to the membership for their review and decision,” said Capt. David Bourne, Director of the Teamsters Airline Division.
“UPS aircraft mechanics went for years without a raise and we’ve worried long enough about the future of our medical care,” said aircraft mechanic Jack Chatburn who was on the bargaining committee. “We are eager to share the details of this top-notch agreement with our members and our families who will now have the top-notch pay and health benefits we’ve been fighting for. We believe the contract will be ratified swiftly.”
The full details of the tentative agreement will first be disclosed to and discussed with Teamsters Local 2727 members. Members will vote whether to ratify the agreement in a secret ballot referendum that will be conducted in September.
Members of Local 986 and Local 959 Gain Wage Increases, Benefit Improvements
Teamster pilots with Aloha Air Cargo (AAC) and Northern Air Cargo (NAC) voted overwhelmingly today to ratify an agreement providing for wage increases, benefit improvements and increased job protections. The 104 pilots are members of Teamsters Local 986 in South El Monte, Calif., and Local 959 in Anchorage, Alaska.
The pilots are based in Anchorage, Honolulu, and Miami, and operate Boeing 737 and 767 aircraft.
Negotiations for separate agreements at AAC and NAC were already in progress in 2017 when the carriers announced a merger of the pilot groups. After months of hard work and dedication by the rank-and-file members, negotiating committee members and union leaders, a tentative agreement with the company was reached in June 2018. Upon ratification of the agreement today, the AAC and NAC pilots became one pilot group under a single seniority list.
“Under this agreement, the pilots will be better compensated and enjoy a higher standard of living and protections on the job,” said Capt. David Bourne, Director of the Teamsters Airline Division. “Thanks go out to the pilot negotiating committee, as well as our international representatives and local business agents. In addition, the support from Secretary-Treasurer Rick Boyles of Local 959 and Chris Griswold of Local 986 has been invaluable.”
Airline Division Week in Review — July 18, 2018
Joint Agreement reached between Aloha, NAC pilots and management
Following an Agreement in Principle (AIP) that was achieved on May 3, 2018, representatives of both pilot groups have notified their memberships of a Tentative Agreement that was reached with management.
Joint Agreement reached between Aloha, NAC pilots and management
Following an Agreement in Principle (AIP) that was achieved on May 3, 2018, representatives of both pilot groups have notified their memberships of a Tentative Agreement that was reached with management.
In a message to the membership of both carriers dated July 6th, the Negotiating Committees of both carriers said, “Roadshow Meetings were held with the Pilots from both Domiciles over the previous two weeks to explain the terms and details of the Joint Agreement. During these meetings, you had the opportunity to participate in a thorough presentation and group discussions with your negotiators, along with representatives from the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Locals 959 and 986, and other individuals who played a part in assisting us in achieving the improvements that are found in this TA.
After the ratification of this TA, the AAC and NAC pilots will become one Pilot group under a single Seniority List. Your Joint Negotiating Committee believes that our pilots should be well compensated and enjoy a high standard of living and continued job security. Our commitment to these principles is found in every Section of this new TA.” The ratification process is being conducted by an outside company selected by the IBT. The ratification voting period will continue until July 24, 2018, at 2:00 P.M. EDT. At the close of the voting period, the ballots will be counted and the results will be announced.
Atlas Air Management proposes full parity for Southern Air pilots
During discussions in Washington, Atlas Air offered a proposal to bring the crewmembers of Southern Air Cargo, which was purchased by Atlas Air Worldwide; to full contract parity with the crewmembers of Atlas Air. In a message to the membership released by the ExCo and Negotiating Committee said, “As you may know, yesterday members of your Southern Air Pilots EXCO, Atlas Air Pilots EXCO, Local 1224 President Dan Wells, Vice President Cameron Graff along with Airline Division Director David Bourne met with company officials in Washington, D.C. to conduct contract parity negotiations. We can report that we believe we have reached an agreement in principal with the company on an LOA that would bring our counterparts at Southern to parity with Atlas Air pilots, while we continue contract negotiations. The document is detailed and complicated and will require a full review by our representatives and legal team before we can officially confirm we have reached a TA.”
The proposal is currently under review by both the committees and Local 1224 legal staff and will then be put into a final draft form to be presented to the Southern pilot group for a ratification vote. No date has yet been set for a ratification vote as there must first be road shows scheduled to present the document and answer any questions from the membership. Once these dates are finalized, the will be published to the members and in The Week in Review.
Teamsters Decry Supreme Court ruling that rolls back rights of union members
This week, in a 5-4 ruling, the U.S. Supreme Court sided with anti-union advocates attempting to undercut the rights of millions of public employees to negotiate with their employers for a fair return on the value of their work. By backing the plaintiffs in “Janus v. AFSCME,” the high court’s decision is an attempt to limit the collective voices of not only government workers, but those in the private sector as well.
In a press release issued Wednesday after the ruling; General President Jim Hoffa said, “The Supreme Court’s ruling is at a time when so many Americans are struggling just to make ends meet. The Teamsters and our allies in the labor movement will redouble our efforts to ensure that working men and women have a voice on the job through strong unions.”
The median salary for working people represented by labor unions is $11,000 a year more than non-union people who have no right to negotiate.
“By overturning 40 years of judicial precedent, conservative judges endorsed an agenda supported by corporations and the wealthiest in our society to take away the right of public employees to negotiate over wages, benefits and working conditions,” said Michael Filler, Director of the Teamsters’ Public Services Division.
Horizon Pilots Lawsuit against Alaska Air Group dismissed, sent to SBA
The lawsuit filed by Horizon pilots over the company’s violation of the Fleet Commitment Letter; which gave Horizon pilots the exclusive rights to the flying of the new E175 jet fleet, was challenged in court by management, seeking to have the lawsuit dismissed. On July 6th the court ruled in favor of management by dismissing the lawsuit over venue. In a message to the membership, the ExCo said,
“On July 6, 2018, the Honorable Judge Pechman dismissed our lawsuit from federal court. She rejected our position that when Horizon and AAG (Alaska Airlines’ parent company) diverted the five E175’s to SkyWest last fall, they clearly violated our Fleet Commitment Letter of Agreement and thus attempted to change that Letter Agreement without negotiating with us, as the Railway Labor Act (“RLA”) requires.
Instead, she agreed with the company, finding that it presented a plausible interpretation of the Fleet Commitment Letter that arguably justified its diversion decision. In reaching this decision, she did not decide who had the better argument, the company or us. Instead, she decided that the question did not belong in federal court because an arbitrator—or a System Board of Adjustment in RLA parlance—had to make that decision. We respectfully think Judge Pechman’s decision is deeply mistaken.”
Allegiant Strike Authorization Vote Totals Announced
The voting period for the Strike Authorization Vote for Allegiant Air crew members closed n July 6th. Following are the results of the membership vote:
YES: 701 (93.5% of the voting members)
NO: 49
Total Ballots: 750
Total Electorate: 877
Percentage Voted: 85.52%
The Strike Authorization Vote passed a membership vote by an overwhelming margin. This vote authorizes the International Brotherhood of Teamsters to call a strike against Allegiant Air in the event it becomes necessary.
UAL QC Inspector Spells Stress Relief “Point it and Punch it”
Everyone has their own way of unwinding after a long shift. If you’re Brother Dan Stunda, a United Airlines Quality Control Inspector in Houston, you head into the garage.
Along with son Dane, they are on the road again participation in the “Hot Rod Power Tour” sponsored by Hot Rod magazine and Chevrolet with many vendors and sponsors. Their seventh and sixth consecutive tours respectively, they are part of a the largest roving car show in the world; hitting seven cities in seven days, racing in each city before heading to the next. Of the 6,000 applicants, 3000 are selected for the tour. The “Longhaul Gang,” begins each new series where they left off the year before.
Now in its 25th year, this year’s race began in Bowling Green, Kentucky and went to Chattanooga, TN, Birmingham AL, Atlanta GA, Darlington SC, and Raleigh, NC and ended in Charlotte NC.
As Dan said, “some guys go hunting and fishing- “Lil guy and I run badass rides through the country leaving tire rubber patches, all fun. And we’re already building next year’s rides for 25th anniversary Power Tour 2019 run.
My son Dane and I do Hot Rod Power Tour every year and this was our 7th, 6th consecutive. Hot Rod Power Tour. 7 days 7 cities largest roving car show in world thru the backwoods of the America. Over 6000 entries and upwards of 3000 that do whole tour. The "Longhaul Gang" starts from the city it stops at from prior year.
I try and do different ride every year, said Dan. In 2014 -15 my 15 year old son wanted to build his first ride. We bought 1997 Chevy S-10 in pieces and repowered swap/4l60 with rear under bed turbo along with a complete overhaul and paint job. We completed it three days prior to the start of the tour. Left for the Wisconsin Dells with my sons driving permit was six days old. He drove 80% tour with me as his right seat nav man, ending up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana that year, an over 3800 mile round trip.”
When asked what it was like on the tour, he said “It's a total blast running the countryside with six thousand other gearheads with bad ass street rods. Gas fumes, oil and tire smoke. If you do it will change your life.”
We couldn’t agree more.
Brother Dan Stunda and son Dane.
Running a 12.32 ET and 118 at Beech Bend Raceway
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Mechanics Dispatch — July 15, 2018
GSE “GQ”/FAC “PV” Review Committee Update
Dear GSE/FAC Brothers and Sisters,
Your review committee met with the company in Chicago on May 31, 2018 to discuss issues concerning both GQ/PV departments. Discussions began with how Core Four would be implemented and how this philosophy would better serve the company as well as creating a working environment for employees that constitutes the basic core four principals.
GSE “GQ”/FAC “PV” Review Committee Update
July 15, 2018
Dear GSE/FAC Brothers and Sisters,
Your review committee met with the company in Chicago on May 31, 2018 to discuss issues concerning both GQ/PV departments. Discussions began with how Core Four would be implemented and how this philosophy would better serve the company as well as creating a working environment for employees that constitutes the basic core four principals.
Following the Core Four discussion we begin speaking about “ARC prevention” uniforms. Cintas is the current vendor and will be furnishing these types of uniforms to stations that require the use for special clothing. Now; the use of such a uniform is extremely uncomfortable and hot, but these types of uniforms must be available when needed and must be worn when needed. Remember ARC flashing is extremely serious and can result in injury or even death.
Throughout the year, department heads will be making station visits meeting with employees and local committees regarding your concerns relating to your respective areas. Please do your due diligence, along with your union steward by explaining your concerns regarding how to improve your departments safety standards, tooling, training etc. Improvement begins with all of us getting involved collectively and expressing how best to improve.
Conversations continued regarding how best the iPad could be used in departments such as ours. Ideas were discussed and the company is committed to reviewing the potential benefits and efficiencies that using this technology can bring. The more tools we have at our disposal the more efficient and safer we become.
Bid areas 108 (Welders) and 109 (Machinist) were discussed with the company in length and fully explained that these two bid areas are independent from one another and must remain separate in accordance with all outlining provisions that are in the agreement. There will be no special considerations for the intermixing of these two bid areas.
As some of you might be aware, there is a new facility being built in Orlando that will be staffed for five (5) GQ Techs, three (3) PV Techs and one (1) Lead Technician. Postings for these positions will commence on or around July of this year. Updates will be furnished once more information is obtained regarding the new facility.
Currently at the Houston base the vendor, JBT is maintaining the baggage system. A request for proposal (RFP) has been maybe, along with staffing models as well as a complete cost analysis. We are hopeful that this analysis can show that it can be cost effective if we do this type of work or part of it in-house. In addition to this, jet bridge maintenance is also being explored which may allow for more flexibility in manpower. We will continue to focus on bringing as much work in-house as long as it shows its cost effectiveness.
On the west coast, United will be vacating the west hanger in Los Angeles and American will be taking it over in the near future. Plans for a new United hanger look promising and will be maintained by those on the Techs Ops seniority list.
In Newark, there is currently an outside vendor who maintains all the hangers as well as the back shop facilities. We will continue to further examine if this work is economically feasible to have union members maintaining these facilities and how best to bring this work in-house if not all then in part.
There has been concern regarding who will maintain the new terminal at LaGuardia airport and how this may affect current manpower. Currently, discussions regarding the scope of work an who will be maintaining this terminal are on-going. Once further details emerge and we get a better understanding on the Port Authority plans then will we update accordingly.
Chicago has a new GSE shop and construction is progressing with the anticipation that September will be the tentative move date, but once there is confirmation of when the shop will be ready an update will follow. In addition, there also is a new aircraft MX hanger and facility shop being built and there currently is no confirmed date as when these two facilities will open.
In regards to trade testing; both parties have been in discussion and the trade testing curriculum has been reviewed in part and will be presented to all the Business Agents throughout the system at the next meeting.
Facilities testing still remain an issue of how what type of practical test will be agreed upon and how fairly that test will be administered to all those that wish to bid into Facilities MX. Once that is completed the Business Agents will review and determine the best way to proceed.
Concerns have risen regarding how our Utility Specialists are trained. The company stated that each station has different needs and training revolves around what those at that particular station may be as outlined and not to exceed that which is listed in the collective bargaining agreement.
One area of training that was agreed upon was that of tires. Utility Specialists for GSE will be sent to a two day course regarding tires. We asked that once this course is completed that the DST or Lead work with the Utility Specialist on the different types of tires and wheels we use in order to assure all safety standards and safety precautions are adhered too. Additional work for the Utility Specialist still remains a topic for future discussion and will continue to be reviewed.
Fraternally,
Ken Meidinger
Committee Chair
GSE/FAC committee members:
Scott Baroni, Angel Cantu, Allen Cosides, Dion Cornelius, Greg Sullivan