FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Washington, D.C., June 29, 2009 – The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) today announced it has asked the National Mediation Board (NMB) to hold a representation election for more than 2,000 fleet service, passenger service and reservation employees of Orlando-based AirTran Airways.
“The two main issues driving this campaign are respect and wages,” said IAM Transportation General Vice President Robert Roach, Jr. “AirTran does not value their fleet and passenger service employees despite the entire company relying on their professionalism. The Machinists union will ensure these AirTran employees are properly compensated and treated with the dignity every worker deserves.”
Under NMB rules, a union seeking an election must submit signed election authorization cards from a minimum of 35 percent of the group to be organized. The NMB will review the Machinists union’s submission before setting an election date. Employees typically cast votes electronically through an Internet website or by telephone.
“Most other AirTran employees already have the protection of union contracts,” said IAM District 141 President Rich Delaney. “It is time for AirTran’s fleet service, passenger service and reservation employees to have a voice in their future and benefit from the security an IAM agreement provides.”
The Machinists union is the largest airline union in North America, representing more than 110,000 fleet service workers, passenger service agents, reservation agents, flight attendants, mechanics, stock clerks, flight simulator technicians and other airline and airline service company employees. More information about the IAM’s AirTran organizing campaign is available at www.airtrancrewmember.com. Information about the Machinists union is available at www.goiam.org.
