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Approximately 60 Unifi Aviation ground handling workers based in San Jose, Calif., last week voted nearly 70 percent to join the IAM Union. Unifi Aviation waged a scorched-Earth union-busting campaign, led by the anti-worker law firm Jones Day. The workers cited low and stagnant wage rates, poor benefits and working conditions as reasons to form a union and gain a seat at the table.
Although the IAM Union filed the petition to hold a representation election in July 2024, it took six months for an election to be held due to management’s stall tactics.
“I am very proud to welcome these determined and courageous workers into aviation’s largest union, the IAM,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “And a special thanks to District 141 Director of Membership Services Frank Giannola, Local 1781 veteran organizer Danny Paulazzo, and the IAM Legal Department for leading the campaign to a successful conclusion.”
“District 141 salutes these Unifi workers who never backed down and took on these high-priced union-busters and sent them packing,” said IAM District 141 President Mike Klemm. “We will now continue this campaign and negotiate the dignified first contract that these workers deserve.”
Unifi Aviation employs approximately 60 workers at San Jose Mineta International Airport who perform ground handling services for Delta Air Lines. The IAM Union is also currently working to organize approximately 20,000 Delta Air Lines ramp, cargo and tower workers nationwide.
“Proud is an understatement,” said IAM District 141 Director of Membership Services Frank Giannola. “Not only do these workers endure the disrespect of low wages and poor treatment on a daily basis, but they had to withstand the lies and threats for six months because of stalling and union-busting tactics.”
Unifi Aviation operates in approximately 180 airports across the United States performing ground handling and other services for airlines.
