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| John Conley, Vice-President TWU; Captain David Bates, President APA; Doug Parker, CEO US Airways; Laura Glading, President APFA; Notably absent; All US Airways unions. |
US Airways CEO Doug Parker spoke recently at a National Press Club luncheon, arguing emphatically for a merger between US Airways and American Airlines. Parker was flanked by leaders of the three largest unions at American Airlines, while the unions representing his own employees, the employees whose sacrifice is the only reason US Airways exists today, were ignored.
Parker claimed to have labor’s support of the merger, repeatedly citing the attendance of the Transport Workers Union (TWU), the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) and the Allied Pilots Association (APA). When questioned as to why US Airways’ unions were not invited to the soiree, Mr. Parker stated awkwardly, “They’re at work.”
“Doug Parker does not have the support of the Machinists Union,” said IAM District 142 President Tom Higginbotham. “Any possible support from his own employees must be earned. Concluding contracts negotiations and guaranteeing our seniority would be a good start.”
When pressed regarding seniority integration in the event of a merger, Mr. Parker replied “I’m not the least bit concerned.” When asked about the outsourcing of aircraft maintenance overseas, again Parker responded that he is not concerned.
“We ask that instead of hob-nobbing with other airlines’ unions, Parker get serious about reaching an agreement with his own employees at his own airline,” said IAM District 141 President Rich Delaney. “Parker swiftly negotiated agreements with American’s unions yet continues to ignore his own employees.”
