August 10, 2007 - The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) today announced a tentative agreement with US Airways covering the carrier’s 7,700 Fleet Service workers.
“US Airways’ bankruptcies wreaked havoc on employees,” said IAM General Vice President Robert Roach, Jr. “The negotiating committee has given the members the opportunity to vote on a contract with immediate improvements in wages, job security and pension benefits.”
The negotiations were prompted by last year’s merger between US Airways and America West Airlines. The tentative agreement provides a single contract and uniform terms for all Fleet Service employees for the first time.
“We were able to do more than just combine the two airlines’ contracts,” said District 141 President Randy Canale. “This tentative agreement ensures our members benefit as US Airways charts its course for the future.”
The tentative agreement includes wage increases of up to 22% and calls for a single pay scale for all Fleet Service employees. The accord also improves the scope of work performed by IAM members and provides increased contributions to the IAM National Pension Plan, the only defined benefit pension plan remaining at US Airways. A summary of the terms is available on the District 141 website, www.iam141.org. Complete terms will be posted after distribution to local union representatives on August 14, 2007.
The IAM negotiating committee unanimously recommends membership ratification of the agreement. Results are expected to be announced on September 5, 2007. If ratified, the agreement will become amendable on December 31, 2011.
Negotiations for 2,900 Mechanic & Related employees represented by IAM District 142 are continuing with the assistance of a facilitator from the National Mediation Board.
More information about the IAM at US Airways is available at the District 141 website, www.iam141.org, and the District 142 website, www.iamdl142.org.
