Airline Division Week in Review -- July 12, 2019
A bipartisan group of House lawmakers assembled on the lawn of the US Capitol July 10 alongside union officials representing pilots, flight attendants and technicians to announce legislation that would renew stalled efforts to target “flag of convenience” carriers.
The US Commerce Committee voted along party lines to advance Steve Dickson’s nomination to head the FAA, setting the stage for a showdown on the Senate floor over whistleblower allegations that surfaced recently regarding his tenure as Delta Air Lines SVP-flight operations.
Industry News Update
July 12, 2019
Governmental and Regulatory
A bipartisan group of House lawmakers assembled on the lawn of the US Capitol July 10 alongside union officials representing pilots, flight attendants and technicians to announce legislation that would renew stalled efforts to target “flag of convenience” carriers.
The US Commerce Committee voted along party lines to advance Steve Dickson’s nomination to head the FAA, setting the stage for a showdown on the Senate floor over whistleblower allegations that surfaced recently regarding his tenure as Delta Air Lines SVP-flight operations.
Four unions representing US aviation safety inspectors and mechanics wrote to Department of Transportation (DOT) secretary Elaine Chao urging the Department to implement three long-delayed Congressional directives intended to boost oversight of foreign repair stations that work on US aircraft.
US Department of State announced (24-Jun-2019) the US and UAE held their sixth economic policy dialogue on 20-Jun-2019, during which delegations from the countries discussed civil aviation matters. Both governments reaffirmed their support for the US-UAE air transport agreement (ATA) of 11-Mar-2012 and the understandings in the record of discussion between the governments of 11-May-2018.
Airlines, Industry and Labor
Atlas Air's William Flynn will retire from his role as CEO effective Jan. 1, 2020, and will become chairman of the board. The company also announced that current Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer John Dietrich will succeed Flynn as CEO. Current Board Chairman Robert Agnew, who will assume the role as the Board's Lead Independent Director in January, praised Flynn's 13 years of extraordinary leadership and expressed confidence that Dietrich is uniquely suited to ensure the company's continued success in the future.
U.S. airlines are rediscovering the rest of the world after years of ceding market share to rivals and international partners on overseas flights.
FedEx Corporation has announced that it has filed suit in U.S. District Court in the District of Columbia seeking to enjoin the U.S. Department of Commerce from enforcing prohibitions contained in the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”) against FedEx.
David Neeleman’s new airline, tentatively named “Moxy”, is due to receive its first Airbus A220-300 from GECAS in April 2021. The new carrier is planning to launch operations in May 2021.
A man has been ordered to pay Hawaiian Airlines more than $172,000 due to disruptive behavior that forced a flight bound for South Korea to return to Honolulu. The traveler was also sentenced to six months in jail for interfering with flight attendants and crew members.
American Airlines announced plans to retire its McDonnell Douglas MD-80 airplanes on Sept. 4 as a part of the company's ongoing fleet renovation. The airline has 26 planes still in service.
May/June Business Agents' Report
2019 National Safety Council Labor Division Spring meeting
Keri Martin, Mike Valladares and Ralph Ortiz attended the National Safety Council (NSC) Labor Division Spring meeting in Kansas City from April 28th to May 1st, 2019. The Labor Division of the NSC is comprised of labor unions that meet and discuss safety issues in various industries. The purpose of the Labor Division is to be the conduit for safety-focused information sharing and idea exchange with other Unions and its members and to discuss safety issues with other safety professionals who share the same job responsibilities, have experienced the same challenges and can share their thoughts and ideas to help Unions and its representatives develop solutions.
2019 National Safety Council Labor Division Spring meeting
Pictured: Teamster Representatives at the NSC Labor Division Spring meeting
Left to Right: Mike Valladares - SFO Local 856/986, Keri Martin - SFO Local 865/986,
Vic Austin - Local 455, Ralph Ortiz - SFO Local 856/986, Joe Grabinski - Local 1150, Randy Dutertre - Local 1150, Mike Faschingbauer - Local 2727
Keri Martin, Mike Valladares and Ralph Ortiz attended the National Safety Council (NSC) Labor Division Spring meeting in Kansas City from April 28th to May 1st, 2019. The Labor Division of the NSC is comprised of labor unions that meet and discuss safety issues in various industries. The purpose of the Labor Division is to be the conduit for safety-focused information sharing and idea exchange with other Unions and its members and to discuss safety issues with other safety professionals who share the same job responsibilities, have experienced the same challenges and can share their thoughts and ideas to help Unions and its representatives develop solutions.
During the four days of the Labor Division meeting, various committee meetings, education sessions, networking and Union caucuses were scheduled. On the Transportation committee, chaired by Ralph Ortiz, Safety & Health topics discussed included availability of chemical resistant gloves for use with Skydrol, concerns related to employees working alone or in isolated areas, aircraft tow tractors and other powered industrial trucks lacking a fall protection system, First Aid Kits that meet the ANSI standards, new hearing testing equipment being used by some Airlines, and fuel freeze testing labs that may lack proper safety protections.
At the IBT Caucus, they also met with Teamsters representatives from Local 1150 (Sikorsky) Local 2727 (UPS mechanics) and Local 455 (DEN - UA) and Local 781 (ORD) to discuss ongoing safety and health issues and challenges each representative is dealing with.
Educational sessions presented at the Labor Division meeting included:
◊ Social Media and Harassment: A Trade Perspective.
◊ How to effectively communicate safety & health to members.
◊ Communcating safety and health with young and new workers.
◊ Working with OSHA Labor Liaisons.
◊ Violence at work are safety hazards too.
Fed-OSHA labor liaisons from regions 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 &10 provided OSHA updates and current activities.
VEBA 2017 Arbitration Decision – What it means to you
As you have no doubt heard, the arbitrator ruled in our favor on the 2017 VEBA grievance. In sustaining the grievance, the arbitrator declared that, “The Company violated Article 16.G.2.d when it capped the VEBA contributions in 2017 by a total of 1560 hours per employee. Any employee who worked more than 1560 hours in 2017 between April 1st and December 31st, 2017 while in active employment will be made whole with respect to VEBA contributions.” What it means for you is exactly that. If your compensable hours for 2017 totaled more than 1560 between April 1st and December 31st, you are owed $1.20 per hour for every hour over 1560, up to a total of 2080 hours max. As an example, if you worked a lot of overtime and are owed for the full 2080 hours this will mean an additional contribution of 520 hours, at $1.20, or $624 to your VEBA account for the year 2017. As soon as we have any additional information on how the Company plans to implement the process to make our members whole, we will be sure to get that out to you.
MEALP/LUCA ISSUE
We were informed by the Company that those individuals working overtime in conjunction with their regular shift will no longer be afforded the ability to leave ½-hour early and receive pay in-lieu of taking a lunch, as is outlined in Article 17.E. The Company is claiming that this is due to the California meal period requirements under California Labor Code Section 512. Frankly, we do not agree with the Company’s assertion that that this section of the Labor Code should apply to overtime shifts covered by our CBA and we consider it to be more of an eTa programming issue. That being said, there are ongoing discussions related to the matter and we are hopeful that we can get an acceptable resolution as soon as possible.
In the meantime, however, if you are working a 4-over in conjunction with your regular shift and are not being allowed to leave ½-hr early using MealP you should insist on taking your full lunch 2 hours into the shift. If you are working 8-hour Hold Over Overtime in conjunction with your regular shift and are not being allowed to leave ½-hour early using MealP you should insist on taking a lunch after two hours and again after 6 hours of overtime. If any management person denies you any of your lunches, we want you to immediately contact your Shop Steward of Chief Steward.
2019 Scholarship Recipients attend May Craft Meeting
Several of this year’s scholarship recipients along with their proud parents attended the May Dayshift Craft meeting held on May 30th at Local 856 in San Bruno. Scholarship checks were presented by Local 856 Principal Officer Peter Finn and Local 986 Airline Division Coordinator Clacy Griswold. The meeting had a decidedly festive atmosphere thanks to their presence and we sincerely appreciate everyone coming out.
Raffle Drawings held at May Craft Meeting
We also held two prize drawings at the May Dayshift Craft Meeting for the Harry Beier Benefit Raffle and the Giants Ticket Raffle benefiting the TeamstersSFO Solidarity Fund. The winner of the Samsung 55-inch Flat Screen TV was Johnny Kong from SFORQ and the winner of the August 10th pair of Giants tickets was Kevin Grover from SFOGX. Thanks to all of you who participated.
Grievance Update
As stated previously, the arbitrator sustained our grievance for the cap on 2017 VEBA contributions. We are currently awaiting an arbitration decision on another grievance (EFS Bypass). We have two grievances at arbitration level that are on hold, pending decisions in related cases: one grievance (Line EFS Bypass) is on hold pending decision of above EFS Bypass case and one grievance (GSE Lead Pay) on hold pending the outcome of a similar grievance from Orlando.
We had an initial discussion with the Company regarding the SFO outsourcing grievances currently at arbitration level and will be scheduling additional discussions in the near future.
As for 3rd Step grievances, we received System Board decisions on the three grievances heard in late March. One grievance (Dock 3 Tool Crib) deadlocked (2 to 2 tie) and was immediately appealed to arbitration. One grievance (BAQ116 work by BAQ128 personnel) was remanded back to the parties for discussions/resolution. In the case of a grievance that is remanded back, the parties must make an attempt to find a resolution. If no resolution is reached, then the most likely outcome is a revision of the decision to reflect a ‘deadlock’ and appeal to arbitration immediately thereafter. One grievance was denied (VAC conversion for FMLA) and is now closed.
Additionally, we must make a correction related to the prior BA Report in April. In it, we stated that we were awaiting System Board decisions for four grievances. In fact, one grievance (progressive discipline) was settled by the Company just prior to the System Boards. This involved the Company providing an amended response to the initial grievance which was acceptable to the Union. Therefore, we were only awaiting decisions on the 3ea above grievances and not four as we previously stated.
As for the remaining 3rd Step grievances, we have our next System Boards scheduled at SFO on August 20th and 21st. We will be engaging Labor Relations in discussions for a potential docket later in July.
As always, if you have any questions about any of the information we have provided above, or about any specific grievance at 3rd Step or arbitration level, please feel free to stop by the Union office for a chat or contact your Shop Steward or Chief Steward.
Fourth of July Message from your Member Assistance Professionals
With the Fourth of July Holiday fast-approaching we felt is necessary to remind you all of the valuable resource that is at your disposal. Our TMAP (formerly EAP) Coordinators offer free confidential services to help out Teamster members and their families identify and resolve personal problems or concerns. They can assist you in developing a plan of action or refer you to appropriate licensed professionals. Some of the issues they can assist with include Alcohol/Drug dependency, Addictive Behaviors, Mental Health, Grief and Loss, Child/Teen Conduct, Domestic Violence, Elder Care, Trauma, and Relationship Concerns. They can also assist with Retirement questions, Workers Compensation, State Disability, FMLA, Reasonable Accommodation, and other state, federal, or Company Benefits. All of these services are free, voluntary, and confidential and cannot be discussed with anyone without written consent from you. If you have a problem or situation that you would like to discuss in private, please call: Steve Loone for MM/GX/PV/OV 650-745-5864 or Steve Crummey for Jet Shop/Backshops 650-745-5867
Labor History
July 6th, 1889 - Striking laborers employed by contractors on street and sewer improvements in Duluth, Minnesota, attempt to break through the police presence protecting scabs doing their work. The police opened fire and a gun battle ensued that resulted in the deaths of four workers and a bystander; many more were seriously wounded. The state militia was called in and drove the workers back with fixed bayonets. Strike leaders were arrested and the police who participated were given gold medals.
July 17th, 1944 - An explosion while loading munitions onto a cargo vessel at the military depot at Port Chicago, California, kills 320 and injures nearly 400 sailors (mostly African-American enlisted men who were part of a segregated unit) and civilians. Following the disaster, many of the surviving sailors refused to resume loading munitions, citing unsafe working conditions. Fifty men were convicted of mutiny and received 15-year sentences. It was the largest mass mutiny trial in U.S. history.
July 31st, 1999 - The Great Shipyard Strike of 1999 ends after steelworkers at Newport News Shipbuilding Inc. ratify a breakthrough agreement which nearly doubles pensions, increases security, ends inequality, and provides the highest wage increases in company and industry history to nearly 10,000 workers. The strike lasted over 16 weeks.
We must never forget!
Labor Quotes
So much of what we call management consists in making it difficult for people to work. - Peter Drucker
If hard work were such a wonderful thing, surely the rich would have kept it all to themselves. - Lane Kirkland
When a man tells you that he got rich through hard work, ask him whose.
Don Marquis
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 -- June 26, 2019
US Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao announced on Monday $57.1 million in Federal Aviation Administration grants for Texas airports, including $23.2 million for Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and $2.6 million for Dallas Love Field Airport. "With improved transportation infrastructure in place ... the airports and communities can build a better quality of life, increase safety, move people and freight faster, and create more jobs and opportunities," Chao said.
US Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao announced on Monday $57.1 million in Federal Aviation Administration grants for Texas airports, including $23.2 million for Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and $2.6 million for Dallas Love Field Airport. "With improved transportation infrastructure in place ... the airports and communities can build a better quality of life, increase safety, move people and freight faster, and create more jobs and opportunities," Chao said.
Amazon Air will begin flights to Anchorage International Airport (ANC) later this week, on June 27. According to a post ANC published on Twitter last week, Amazon Air will operate daily services to the airport utilizing its 767 freighter network.
Air Transport Services Group’s subsidiary carrier, ABX Air, has partnered with turboprop freighter operator Air Cargo Carriers under a program designed to allow the latter’s pilots to more easily enter ABX’s training class.
United Airlines CEO Oscar Munoz talks about a variety of aviation topics, including financial stability, sustainability, cybersecurity and regulatory issues.
Shortly after FedEx announced it would not be renewing its express delivery contract with e-tail giant Amazon, Amazon signed an order for 15 additional narrowbody 737 freighters via lessor GECAS at the Paris Air Show today.
Salt Lake City's new airport set to open next year is a rarity as the first wholly new airport built in the US in over 20 years, writes Amanda Olson. Although the need for new construction is great, airports are usually redesigned instead of being rebuilt due to a wide range of challenges, including a lack of new land and the need to avoid congestion.
US Transportation Secretary announced a $65 million investment in Chicago's O'Hare Airport with part of it going to fund new runways. "The construction of runways will help Chicago maintain its status as one of the busiest in the world," Bailey Edwards of the Federal Aviation Administration said.
FedEx Corporation has announced that it has filed suit in U.S. District Court in the District of Columbia seeking to enjoin the U.S. Department of Commerce from enforcing prohibitions contained in the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”) against FedEx.
A new generation of plane-sized autonomous delivery vehicles is capable of carrying hundreds of pounds for hundreds of miles. They’re called cargo drones. They are fast, more environmentally friendly, and could completely change the cargo industry.
Teamsters Airline Division Prevails as Arbitrator Berger Sustains Health Reimbursement Account Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association Grievance!
Arbitrator Berger has found that United Airlines violated Article 16.G.2.d when it capped the Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA) contributions in 2017 by a total of 1,560 hours per employee. Any employee who was working under active employment status during this time period shall be made whole with respect to VEBA contributions.
Arbitrator Berger has found that United Airlines violated Article 16.G.2.d when it capped the Voluntary Employee Beneficiary Association (VEBA) contributions in 2017 by a total of 1,560 hours per employee. Any employee who was working under active employment status during this time period shall be made whole with respect to VEBA contributions.
Once all of the data and details are gathered regarding how and who shall receive payment, that information will be made available to each respective local. Please be patient as we are starting this process within the upcoming weeks under the guidance of our attorney Josh Mcinnerny.
Special thanks goes out to the Airline Division and their resources, along with Mcinnerny who presented an outstanding case with our expert witnesses: Economist Dan Akins, International Representative Bob Fisher and Local 986 Business Agent Clacy Griswold.
Thanks to all,
Vinny Graziano
National Coordinator, Airline Division
Teamsters Stand In Solidarity With IAM, TWU Workers At American Airlines
(WASHINGTON) – The following is a statement from Teamsters Airline Division Director Capt. David Bourne regarding American Airlines’ ongoing negotiations with the Transport Workers Union (TWU) and International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM):
“American Airlines has accused the TWU and IAM of participating in an illegal work slowdown. The men and women of the IAM and TWU have been in contract negotiations with American Airlines management to keep the maintenance work from being sent offshore.
Company Needs to Keep Maintenance in Hands of Unionized Professionals
(WASHINGTON) – The following is a statement from Teamsters Airline Division Director Capt. David Bourne regarding American Airlines’ ongoing negotiations with the Transport Workers Union (TWU) and International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM):
“American Airlines has accused the TWU and IAM of participating in an illegal work slowdown. The men and women of the IAM and TWU have been in contract negotiations with American Airlines management to keep the maintenance work from being sent offshore.
“The highly trained professionals at the IAM and TWU show their dedication each day as they put the safety of our passengers and crew first when doing their jobs. Sending aircraft maintenance overseas threatens the safety of workers and passengers. We support and stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters of the IAM and TWU in their fight to secure a fair contract.”
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamsters.
Airline Division Week in Review — May 31, 2019
This Tuesday, tune into our livestream of the Aircraft Maintenance Outsourcing Summit!
On June 4, TAMC Chairman Chris Moore will be speaking at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. about the importance of fighting outsourcing in the airline industry. Moore will be joining trade unionists, aviation industry stakeholders and consumer advocates – including activist Ralph Nader – for a discussion on why airline maintenance outsourcing threatens oversight and safety in a way that is hazardous for both workers and passengers.
This Tuesday, tune into our livestream of the Aircraft Maintenance Outsourcing Summit!
On June 4, TAMC Chairman Chris Moore will be speaking at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. about the importance of fighting outsourcing in the airline industry. Moore will be joining trade unionists, aviation industry stakeholders and consumer advocates – including activist Ralph Nader – for a discussion on why airline maintenance outsourcing threatens oversight and safety in a way that is hazardous for both workers and passengers.
The livestream will go from 9:00AM to 1:00PM on the Facebook pages for the Teamsters and the TAMC. For more information, please call the IBT Communications Department at (202) 624-6911 or e-mail mmcquaid@teamster.org.
2019 Teamsters 856/986 Scholarships Awarded
We celebrated the latest recipients of the Teamsters 856/986 Scholarships and the Bernie Fleischer Memorial Scholarship Award during yesterday’s day shift craft meeting.
We celebrated the latest recipients of the Teamsters 856/986 Scholarships and the Bernie Fleischer Memorial Scholarship Award during yesterday’s day shift craft meeting.
Local 856 Secretary-Treasurer Peter Finn and Local 986 Airline Division Coordinator Clacy Griswold presented the recipients in attendance with their scholarship and a certificate.
The recipients of the $1000 Teamsters 856/986 Scholarships are:
Dylan Lopez, Son of SFOMM Line Technician Jonathan Lopez
Paige Thrush, Daughter of Jet Shop Technician Ray Thrush
Riley Savage, Daughter of Airframe General Technician Brian Savage
Camille Starr, Daughter of Jet Shop Technicians Skip and Mary Starr
Lillysvette Joya-Campos, Daughter of Machinist Omar Joya
Lillian Crummey, Daughter of Technicians Steve and Debbie Crummey
Natalie Moresco, Daughter of Base Welder Paul Moresco
The recipient of the $2500 Bernie Fleischer Memorial Scholarship Award is:
Bryan Ngo, Son of Airframe R&E John Ngo
Congratulations to all these deserving students and their proud parents!
Find more information about available scholarships at www.sfoteamsters.com/scholarships.
March/April Business Agents' Report
For Workers Memorial Day, April 28th, a Statement from Mr. Hoffa
In the United States, Canada, and many other countries, Workers’ Memorial Day is when we remember and honor our fallen brothers and sisters in the labor movement. It is a time to look back and mourn for workers killed and injured on the job, as well as a time to look ahead and rededicate ourselves to the fight for safe workplaces.
For Workers Memorial Day, April 28th, a Statement from Mr. Hoffa
In the United States, Canada, and many other countries, Workers’ Memorial Day is when we remember and honor our fallen brothers and sisters in the labor movement. It is a time to look back and mourn for workers killed and injured on the job, as well as a time to look ahead and rededicate ourselves to the fight for safe workplaces.
Last year, many working men and women throughout the United States and Canada, including Teamsters, were killed and injured on the job due to unsafe conditions. On behalf of all 1.4 million Teamsters, I ask that each of you take a few minutes to remember these workers.
Forty-nine years ago, Congress passed the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), promising every worker the right to a safe job. Decades of struggle by workers and their unions resulted in significant improvements in working conditions. Unions won regulations, standards and other protections that have made workplaces safer for all workers. Union contracts have also given workers a voice on the job.
The toll of workplace injury, illness and death remains enormous. Some Teamsters within the union’s 22 trade divisions and conferences, both in the private and public sectors, are particularly at risk, suffering very high rates of job injuries and fatalities. Roadway incidents continue to be the leading cause of on-the-job fatalities and truck drivers suffer more on-the-job fatalities than any other individual occupation. Ergonomic hazards cripple and injure hundreds of thousands of workers every year and musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) occur in one out of three (31%) injury and illness cases requiring days away from work in 2017, without corresponding standards to prevent them. Many people have no union protections, like the workers at XPO from California to Florida to New York who are demanding that XPO respect their rights. Among them are many Hispanic and immigrant workers, who often work in the most dangerous jobs, are exploited by employers, and often are afraid to speak out. Many public sector workers also have no OSHA protection. Hundreds of workers are fired or harassed by their employers each year simply for voicing job-safety concerns or reporting injuries. Although there are dozens of whistleblower protection and anti-retaliation laws on the books, some are simply too weak and others are just not aggressively enforced due to insufficient funding of the regulatory agencies charged with enforcement. As such, whistleblower and anti-retaliation provisions are not adequately protecting workers who try to exercise their legal rights to speak out on workplace safety issues. In a policy memo1, OSHA instructed its inspectors to start investigating—and in many cases, to cite employers for violations—when the inspectors find practices that discourage workers from reporting injuries.
On this Workers’ Memorial Day, we need to join hands to seek stronger safety and health protections and better standards and enforcement. To quote Mother Jones, a small woman but a giant in the American labor movement, “Mourn for the dead and fight like hell for the living!”
Samsung 55-inch Flat Screen TV Raffle
The TeamstersSFO Committee is currently selling raffle tickets for a Samsung 55” Flat Screen. All proceeds will go towards helping member Harry Beier and his family, who find themselves in a time of great need right now. The tickets are selling for $10 each or 3 for $20. You can purchase tickets by contacting your Shop Steward or Chief Steward. The raffle ticket drawing will be held at the Dayshift Craft Meeting at 3pm on May 30th at Teamsters Local 856. You need not be present to win.
Giants Tickets Raffle
The TeamstersSFO Committee is also currently raffling off a super-sweet pair of tickets right behind home plate for the San Francisco Giants versus the Philadelphia Phillies on August 10th, 2019, at Oracle Park in San Francisco. All proceeds will go to the Solidarity Fund. The raffle tickets are selling for $10 each or 3 for $20. Again, you can purchase tickets by contacting your Shop Steward or Chief Steward. The drawing will be held at the dayshift Craft Meeting at 3pm on May 30th, 2019, at Teamsters Local 856. Again, you need not be present to win. We would like to give a very special thanks to Pete Poncia, a Technician in the Landing Gear Shop, and a great Union Brother, for kindly donating these tickets!
2019 Teamsters 856/986 Scholarship Recipients
We would like to send out congratulations to all the recipients of the Teamsters 856/986 Scholarship awards for 2019.
The recipients of the $1000 Teamsters 856/986 Scholarships are:
Dylan Lopez, Son of SFOMM Line Technician Jonathan Lopez
Paige Thrush, Daughter of Jet Shop Technician Ray Thrush
Riley Savage, Daughter of Airframe General Technician Brian Savage
Camille Starr, Daughter of Jet Shop Technicians Skip and Mary Starr
Lillysvette Joya-Campos, Daughter of Machinist Omar Joya
Lillian Crummey, Daughter of Technicians Steve and Debbie Crummey
Natalie Moresco, Daughter of Base Welder Paul Moresco
The recipient of the $2500 Bernie Fleischer Memorial Scholarship Award is Bryan Ngo, Son of Airframe R&E John Ngo
Congratulations to all these deserving students and their proud parents!
California Teamsters Hispanic Caucus Scholarship
The window is still open to apply for the 2019 Hispanic Caucus Scholarship. This scholarship is open to deserving High School Seniors graduating this year who are a daughter/son of an active Teamster whose dues are current with his/her Local Union and are attending or have been accepted by an accredited University, College, or Trade School. Please see your Shop Steward or Chief Steward to get an application. The application deadline is Friday, June 28th, 2019.
Go buy Technician Brian Tripp’s New Book ‘Briansride’
Briansride is the new book by Airframe R&E Brian Tripp. It chronicles his amazing adventure riding around the world on an old bike back in 2008. Brian has always had a great sense of humor and you will definitely laugh out loud more than a few times reading his book. But you will also come away with a true sense of how defining this experience was in Brian’s life and of just how vast our world is and of how little we all know outside of our own little corner of it. It is a great read, folks. Go buy now. Congratulations Brian!
Grievance Update
We finally got the decision on the MealP grievance. Unfortunately, the Arbitrator ruled against us and denied the grievance. That means that the status quo will continue when it comes to the paid lunches on a 2nd Shift. If you work a second shift during the week, you will continue to get paid meal periods per Article 17.E. If you work a second overtime shift on your RDO, you not receive the paid meal periods.
Our attorney for the HRA/RHA 2017 grievance has informed us that the briefs have been submitted by each sides counsel to the Arbitrator for consideration. The purpose of the briefs is to outline each sides argument in the case based on the testimony offered at the Arbitration hearing. It is customary for the decision to be rendered within 60-90 days from this point. We will let you know when we get the decision.
We are still awaiting decisions for the four grievances (Dock 3 Tool Crib, Progressive Discipline, BAQ116 work by BAQ128 Technicians, VAC conversion for FMLA usage) that were heard on March 26th and 27th. System Board hearings were scheduled for May 14th and May 15th. Beginning several weeks ago, the Union and the Company engaged in discussions regarding the seven grievances that the Union identified for disposition.
The Union agreed to the Company request to push one grievance (Improper premium pay) out to August System Boards while the parties work towards an acceptable resolution. The grievance will be heard in August if there is no agreement beforehand.
The Company settled one grievance (Improper adjusted pay).
Two grievances (Improper I-time hours and Deferred holiday hours) were put on hold pending System Board decisions at other locations in the system.
Two grievances [Kincare 2017 (Not the current Kincare grievance that are on hold pending investigation by the State of California. This was a grievance to convert 2017 N-Time to Kincare) and Incentive program] were withdrawn by the Union.
The discussions on the last grievance (Vacation allocation calculation) continue and it was agreed to schedule another call on the matter. Ultimately, it was agreed that because we had only one remaining grievance of the original seven we identified and we were still discussing resolution, we would cancel the May System Boards. There is a 15-day requirement to disclose exhibits prior to a System Board hearing and there is simply no time left to identify and pursue other grievances this close to the scheduled date.
If you ever have any questions about the grievance process or a specific grievance, please fell free to stop by the Union office for a visit or contact your Shop Steward or Chief Steward.
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 — April 19, 2019
Airline Division Participates in SciFest SoCal
Students from all over Southern California participated in the first ever Clippers SoCal SciFest sponsored by USA Science and Engineering. While on a smaller scale than the Washington DC Festival there was no lack of enthusiasm on the part of the Students their Parents or the Exhibitors. The event attracted approximately 40,000 to the LA convention center over the weekend.
Airline Division Participates in SciFest SoCal
Students from all over Southern California participated in the first ever Clippers SoCal SciFest sponsored by USA Science and Engineering. While on a smaller scale than the Washington DC Festival there was no lack of enthusiasm on the part of the Students their Parents or the Exhibitors. The event attracted approximately 40,000 to the LA convention center over the weekend.
The Festival kicked off with Sneak Peak Friday, a day for school groups only. Thousands of students and teachers stopped by the Airline Division Exhibit to learn about careers in Aviation. The kids were able to watch a time lapsed video of a 777 Engine Change, interact with aircraft parts and test equipment, build Teamster model airplanes and speak one on one with Pilots and Mechanics. The students heard first hand what it takes to get a Pilot or Mechanics License and how studying Math and Science while in school will help them achieve that goal.
Saturday’s event was open to the public and drew even more students and families than originally anticipated. A new video loop including a 747 landing gear swing, tire and break changes, CFM-56 engine operation animation and 787 avionics was added, the students and parents were fascinated, many exclaiming “I had no idea”. At one point the entire booth turned into an Airplane Building Station with Teamster Pilots and Mechanics helping the kids build their airplanes while discussing careers, schooling requirements, cost of getting a license, wages and the huge demand now and into the future for Pilots and Mechanics.
On hand for the inaugural event were Airline Division Director and Deputy Director Captain David Bourne and Allynn Allen. AD MX Representatives and TAMC Board members Bob Fisher and Chris Moore and Atlas Air 747 Captains Daniel Wells and Anna Eivor Ivarsson.
“These events are so important as we build our outreach program," said Capt. David Bourne. "Students need the one on one conversations with folks who fly and fix aircraft in order to help them choose a career in Aviation.”
As part of our growing Teamsters Outreach program, Captain Bourne commissioned the Expo Booth which enhances our ability to demonstrate through video and other means the many Teamster aviation careers that exist. We will be using the booth at events from coast to coast to bring more visibility to the Teamsters Airline Division, TAMC and the need for future Pilots and Mechanics.
(L to R) International Representative Bob Fisher, Airline Division Director Captain David Bourne, Assistant Division Director Allynn Allen, TAMC Chairman Chris Moore and Atlas Air 747 Captains Anna Eivor Ivarsson and Daniel Wells at the SciFest SoCal.
Captain Ivarsson helping one of the hundreds of students who visited the booth assemble one of the handouts.
Allegiant Air Technicians and Related Negotiations Update
The Allegiant Air Technicians and Related Negotiating Committee met with the Company on April 2nd through 4th at Allegiant Headquarters. The Union and the Company made passes and worked on Articles 12 – (Training), 19- (Grievance Procedure), 20- (Board of Arbitration), 23- (Management Rights) and 24- (Labor-Management Cooperation).
A Tentative Agreement was reached on Article 12- (Training) as well a Protocol Agreement.
The next negotiations meeting is scheduled for the week of May 14th.
Airline Industry News
FedEx chairman and CEO Fred Smith has joined with the CEOs of Atlas Air Worldwide and JetBlue Airways to strongly rebuke an open letter to US President Donald Trump from the CEOs of American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines claiming that Qatar Airways’ stake in Air Italy breaches the US-Qatar Open Skies agreement.
An FAA update of minimum training required for pilots to fly the Boeing 737 MAX will cover the aircraft’s maneuvering characteristics augmentation system (MCAS), but simulator sessions will not be needed, a draft of a new report reveals.
FAA's proposed expansion of rules that aviation maintenance technician schools (AMTS) must follow to train mechanics will not please those in the industry who were hoping for more flexibility and less bureaucracy.
FAA is targeting late May or early June for approving Boeing’s proposed changes to the 737 MAX and issuing an airworthiness directive that would mandate the upgrades and clear the way for US MAX operations to resume, the agency told airline representatives April 12.
Teamsters Aviation Mechanics Coalition Newsletter
April 2019 | Volume 10, Issue 1
Check out the Spring 2019 edition of the TAMC Newsletter! In this edition: the Clippers SoCal Science Festival, the Aero Engines Americas Conference, The Airline Division's presence at the 2019 US Chamber of Commerce Aviation Summit and much more!
April 2019 | Volume 10, Issue 1
Check out the Spring 2019 edition of the TAMC Newsletter! In this edition: the Clippers SoCal Science Festival, the Aero Engines Americas Conference, The Airline Division's presence at the 2019 US Chamber of Commerce Aviation Summit and much more!
United Airlines mechanic becomes an inventor after losing his sight
“I decided not to look back, but to move forward,” said Jimmy Uharriet. Jimmy is a Teamsters SFO mechanic at United Airlines.
In March 2016, Jimmy’s entire life changed when an accident left him totally blind.
What’s interesting about Jimmy is that his is not just a story about a person overcoming incredible odds to get back on his feet and return to work, but also a story of an individual who took his new circumstance and turned it into something lifechanging for so many others
“I decided not to look back, but to move forward,” said Jimmy Uharriet. Jimmy is a Teamsters SFO mechanic at United Airlines.
In March 2016, Jimmy’s entire life changed when an accident left him totally blind.
What’s interesting about Jimmy is that his is not just a story about a person overcoming incredible odds to get back on his feet and return to work, but also a story of an individual who took his new circumstance and turned it into something lifechanging for so many others.
“I had to be retaught everything,” said Jimmy. “There was a point when I wanted to give up, but I decided success was my only option, failure was not.”
Jimmy credits his family and friends for reminding him that he was still alive and he was still the same person he was before he lost his sight.
In September 2016, Jimmy went to the Vista Center — a nonprofit that among other things, teaches blind or visually impaired individuals orientation and mobility skills. Jimmy says staff at the Vista Center noticed how motivated he was to relearn and regain his independence and put him in contact with Project Invent at the Nueva School — a private school in San Mateo.
Part of the goal of Project Invent is to help high school students invent technologies to solve real-world problems. Students at the Nueva School wanted to develop a belt that would help prevent blind people from veering — an issue Jimmy understood very well.
“I used to walk to my local grocery store and barber shop, which were three blocks away from my house,” explained Jimmy. “I want to be independent, but as a blind person I can’t walk a straight line and doctors say veering can’t be fixed.”
Jimmy worked with the students at the Vista Center to create a prototype of the Stria Belt.
“There’s a zipper on the belt with motors on each side that vibrate,” Jimmy continued. “I switch the belt on and the two motors vibrate and set the straight pattern. The second I begin to veer, the belt vibrates on one side until I stop veering.”
Click here to watch a video about how the Stria Belt works.
After their success at the Nueva School, Jimmy worked with Project Invent founder, Connie Lu, at a camp for students at East Palo Alto Academy. Jimmy talked to the kids about the problems he had with his walking stick and they all got to work.
Together, they developed a prototype of a walking stick that uses flashing LED lights, tactile feedback, and shock absorbance to help users navigate safely and painlessly.
“I take everything as a blessing,” said Jimmy. “The Stria Belt won the top prize at South by Southwest’s Student Startup competition and Project Invent is now in eight states and over 16 countries.”
“Everything happened to me for a reason and I think that reason was Project Invent,” he continued.
On top of helping students develop award-winning technologies that will improve the lives of people with disabilities, Jimmy was also focused on getting back to work.
“There was a point in time when I was bedridden that I would wake up and rip everything off and say I needed to get to work,” he said.
The Teamsters Member Assistance Program (TMAP) offers United Airlines Teamsters with help when they need assistance with issues like getting back to work after an injury or illness.
“Our TMAP team communicated at different times with United to make sure the company was willing to go forward with getting Jimmy back to work,” said TMAP Coordinator Steve Loone. “We were there to be cheerleaders for Jimmy.”
The Teamsters contract with United Airlines provided Jimmy time to prove he could perform his work as a mechanic.
“I did the evaluation and even shocked myself,” said Jimmy who was able to return to work last June. “If you’d asked me a year and a half ago if I thought I’d be back at work, I would have said no.”
Before losing his sight, Jimmy worked on jet bridges, ground power, and locksmith work. “Now I do benchwork,” he explained. “I am brought electric motors, clutch brakes, and gearbox reducers for the back system to rebuild and overhaul.”
For Jimmy, transitioning to this new phase in his life has been about not allowing the smallest or the biggest things to bring him down. “I know this won’t be my hardest battle,” he said about being blind. “I also know I want to build something that will last forever. I think that’s why I’m here.”
Jimmy wanted to give a special thank you to the people who have helped him since he lost his sight: his parents, his brothers, and the surgeons to which he owes his life; Valerie Campos who trained him on using his walking stick; Cathy Abbott, Bill Quirke, Jeff Sanchez, Ed Tanaupol, Andrea Charles, and everyone in his department at United Airlines; and all of his friends and union family. Teamsters 856/986 shop stewards, Greg Sullivan and Steve Loone also advocated tirelessly on Jimmy’s behalf.
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