June 20, 2007 - International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) General Vice President Robert Roach, Jr. today testified before the United States Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee Subcommittee on Aviation Operations, Safety, and Security regarding the Federal Aviation Administration’s oversight of foreign aircraft repair stations.
“Airlines utilize these facilities to take advantage of the low wages and lax regulations available at overseas repair stations when there are many U.S. repair facilities available and underutilized, such as the state-of-the-art Indianapolis, Indiana facility abandoned by United Airlines, one of the most advanced repair stations in the world.” said Roach. “Cutting back on food, pillows and other in-flight amenities is a business decision that only inconveniences passengers, but cutting costs in aircraft maintenance has serious safety implications.”
The IAM’s testimony focused on the lack of FAA oversight of independent repair stations, shortage of FAA inspectors and the disparity in regulations for workers in domestic and foreign aircraft repair stations.
“Our members have seen aircraft return from independent repair facilities with the flaps rigged improperly, engine fan blades installed backwards, improperly connected ducting that resulted in pressurization problems, airspeed indicator lines disconnected, inoperable thrust reversers and over-wing exit emergency slides deactivated,” said Roach. “These aircraft had all been deemed airworthy by the repair stations.”
“There should be one standard for safety, security and FAA oversight at all aircraft repair facilities working on U.S. aircraft, regardless of where they are located,” said Roach. “This must include equivalent standards for criminal background checks, drug and alcohol testing of workers and tightening the security at repair facilities.”
The Machinists Union was the only airline employee union testifying at today’s hearing.
The Machinists Union was the only airline employee union testifying at today’s hearing.
