The National Mediation Board (NMB) has certified the IAM as the authorized representative of 185 Fleet Technical Instructors (FTIs) at the airline formed by the merger of United, Continental and Continental Micronesia.
In proceedings before the Board dating back to 2011, IAM attorneys countered United’s attempt to split off portions of the craft or class of FTIs, also known as Ground Instructors, and deprive them of union representation. IAM attorneys successfully argued that historical NMB class and craft determinations should apply to the combined group and that the combined group should remain a single craft or class.
“We applaud the NMB’s decision to certify the IAM as the representative of the FTIs at United Airlines,” said Transportation GVP Sito Pantoja. “The IAM is proud of our continued representation of these professionals who perform such vital functions for United Airlines.”
“This NMB determination resolves the final representational dispute associated with the merger of United, Continental and Continental Micronesia,” said District 141 President Rich Delaney. “We now look forward to attaining a combined collective bargaining agreement for the FTIs that recognizes their professionalism and contribution to the success of United Airlines.”
The IAM has represented the FTIs at pre-merger United Airlines since 1996 and was certified as the pre-merger Continental FTI representative in 2010. FTIs perform functions such as on-ground pilot training, emergency procedures training for both flight attendants and pilots and the maintenance of all training and course materials. The IAM represents approximately 35,000 workers from seven different classifications at United Airlines.
