Thousands of IAM members at Southwest Airlines are receiving a pay raise thanks to the foresight of the IAM Air Transport Territory, District 142 and their negotiating committee. Members who were employed in one of the three IAM-represented Southwest Airlines groups when the contract was ratified in December 2022 – Customer Service Agents, Customer Representatives, and Source of Support Representatives – will also receive a bonus.

The raises and bonuses are due to a clause negotiated into the contract that requires IAM-represented workgroups at the carrier to receive the same pay rate at the top of the scale as the highest-paid ground operations group.

“IAM members at Southwest Airlines have always been leaders in their classification in pay and benefits at the carrier,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “I’d like to thank the IAM Negotiating Committee for having the vision to ensure IAM members at Southwest would never fall behind and will continue to lead the way at the carrier.”

The pay bumps and bonuses are in addition to all the general wage increases and other benefits already present in the contract, along with a 4% non-elective contribution into their 401(k) that began in January 2023 for all IAM-represented employees at the carrier. 

“We knew where the industry was going and negotiated a contract that ensured IAM members’ compensation remained at the top at Southwest Airlines,” said IAM Airline Coordinator Tom Regan. 

Beginning April 16, 2024, IAM-represented Southwest Airlines employees will be the highest-paid in the industry. 

– Customer Service Agents (CSA) at the top of scale will be $38.35 per hour.
– Customer Representatives (CS&S) at the top of scale will be $37.85 per hour.
– Source of Support Representatives at the top of scale will be $41.32 per hour.

“I am extremely proud of what our negotiating team have achieved during the last round of negotiations,” said IAM Air Transport Territory Chief of Staff Edison Fraser. “The IAM again leads the way in the industry and the patience of our members has allowed us to negotiate good benefits on their behalf.” 

“Nothing makes us more proud at District 142 than improving the lives and benefits of our members,” said IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John M. Coveny Jr. “IAM members at Southwest can expect another well-deserved raise and lump sum payment because of their IAM contract.”

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Approximately 150 Qantas Airways aircraft maintenance engineers (AME’s) at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) have overwhelmingly voted to join the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM).

Qantas AMEs reached out to the IAM in late 2023 to explore the idea of forming a union, and then filed in January 2024 for a National Mediation Board (NMB) election. The NMB election vote count took place today, Wednesday, April 3.

“I am grateful in being able to serve to bring respect and honor to those fellow mechanics who have honored and respected an old dog trying to learn new tricks,” said Edward Berg, a Qantas AME and lead inside organizer. “This career and field are new to me and I’m humbled and proud to be working alongside those who really care about their craft. I hope in the upcoming negotiations that management will see the majority of those mechanics who care about their responsibilities and do right by them.”

The AMEs believe that they should be treated better by Qantas management and decided collectively that forming a union with the IAM and negotiating a legally binding contract would be the best way to ensure that they are recognized appropriately for the value they create for Australia’s largest airline.

“As the largest and most powerful airline union in North America, the IAM is honored to welcome Qantas Airways aircraft maintenance engineers into the IAM family,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “These brave workers stood strong during their organizing campaign and now we are going to continue to stand alongside them for a strong first contract with Qantas management.”

The IAM represents thousands of aircraft mechanics and related workers across the United States at major and regional airlines, such as American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, British Airways, PSA Airlines, and Air Wisconsin Airlines.

“The IAM Air Transport Territory will continue to provide every resource necessary to Qantas Airways workers in their mission toward justice on the job,” said IAM Air Transport Territory Chief of Staff Edison Fraser. “We couldn’t be more proud of this great victory for Qantas Airways workers and their families.”

The IAM has approximately 600,000 active and retired members in countless industries and is the largest airline union in North America.

“It’s been a privilege to get the know these dedicated professionals at Qantas Airways,” said IAM Air Transport Territory Grand Lodge Representative Sean Ryan, who served as lead organizer on the campaign. “As a fellow aircraft mechanic and proud IAM member, I can’t wait to help bring the benefits of a strong IAM contract to Qantas aircraft maintenance engineers.”

“IAM District 142 is excited to represent Qantas Airways aircraft maintenance engineers and we look forward to getting to the bargaining table alongside them,” said IAM District 142 President and Directing General Chair John M. Coveny Jr. “Our strength for airline workers is only growing, and together our voices are transforming this industry for the benefit of its workers and the flying public.”

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Join fellow riders and Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines supporters from July 11-14, 2024 for three days of motorcycle rides across the beautiful and scenic northern California. This year’s three-day event is hosted by the IAM Air Transport Territory.

The 5th annual Kourpias K-9 Classic proceeds will be donated to the IAM’s favorite charity, Guide Dogs of America | Tender Loving Canines, to support their mission of transforming lives through partnerships with service dogs.

Register or donate for this year’s ride today here!

This year’s Kourpias Ride will take off each of the three days from IAM Local 1781 in Burlingame, Calif., and includes excursions to the Redwood Forest, Golden Gate Bridge, Napa Wine Country and more. Click here for full route details.

If you can’t make it to this event and still want to support the 2024 Kourpias K-9 Classic, you can support a participant in the ride or simply donate to the cause.

Support a participant or donate today!

“The Air Transport Territory couldn’t be more excited to support GDA|TLC through the 5th annual Kourpias K-9 Classic,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “We encourage all IAM members to join us as we explore the sights of northern California while raising funds for the IAM’s favorite charity.”

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As part of an IAM Air Transport Territory partnership, 30 students from Aviation High School in Queens, N.Y., recently visited the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center for a three-day program on aviation, the importance of unions, and the U.S. transportation industry.

Watch the video here.

On Tuesday, the students, accompanied by IAM Instructors and Representatives, visited the National Air and Space Museum in Chantilly, Va., to see historical pieces of aviation history.

“I couldn’t be more proud of these 30 students and the hard work they have been putting into becoming licensed AP mechanics,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen.

During the busy three days, the students participated in classroom instruction, which included discussions with representatives from the National Mediation Board and learning about union representation. Several IAM Departments also gave presentations to the students. Other topics included presentations on why politics matter, the responsibilities of having an Airframe and Powerplant (A&P) license, and the human factors of aircraft maintenance. 

The students also heard a presentation from American Airlines Line Maintenance Vice President Evita Garces.  During the presentation, students were tasked with troubleshooting an electronic circuit board and correcting the problem in 10 minutes. All five teams succeeded in the test.
 
“There is no better time than now for high school students to learn about unions and how we fight to protect the rights of workers,” said IAM Air Transport Territory Chief of Staff Edison Fraser. “This is a time when we have the President of the United States not afraid to say the word union.”

The students toured the IAM’s International Headquarters in Upper Marlboro, Md., on the third day. They could see the vast resources and support the IAM gives its membership by visiting and speaking with staff and department heads. 

“Thank you to all for participating with your good work and coming to learn about the IAM,” said IAM Air Transport Territory Airline Coordinator Tom Regan.

The students were then presented with certificates from completing the course.

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ATLANTA, March 26, 2024 – More than 19,000 Delta Air Lines ground workers in 46 U.S. cities expressed gratitude to members of Congress who support their campaign for union representation and collective bargaining rights. 

Delta workers also received support from members of the Georgia Congressional Delegation. 

In a letter, the workers thanked lawmakers for urging Delta CEO Ed Bastian to remain neutral in their unionization efforts. This neutrality would ensure workers can decide, without management influence, whether union representation aligns with their interests.

However, they found Bastian’s response to the congressional inquiry concerning. It lacked acknowledgment of alleged interference with their right to unionize. Instead, it focused on the perceived benefits of the current non-union environment.

“Mr. Bastian’s response makes it unmistakably clear that he does not understand our rationale and desire to unionize,” wrote the Delta workers. “Our desire to seek collective bargaining rights likely varies from employee to employee. Issues such as financial concerns, a fair grievance procedure, to improving benefits and working conditions each play a role. Regardless, organizing a union is our right protected by federal law. These important rights should not be undermined by Mr. Bastian’s never-ending campaign that we don’t need union representation because employment conditions at Delta are, in his view, just fine. It’s not his decision. It’s our decision.” 

Given Bastian’s refusal to commit to neutrality, the workers request further action by Congress. They urge lawmakers to demand a clear answer: will Delta adopt a neutral stance on worker organizing?

If Bastian continues to avoid a clear answer, Delta workers urge Congress to hold hearings. These hearings would allow all parties to discuss fair conditions for union organizing, free from management interference.

“Delta actively and verifiably misinforms workers about the process and results of unionizing,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “We want workers to know that they have rights and to feel empowered. Delta’s CEO is responsible for the disrespectful stance the company takes on workers who want to exercise their federal right to unionize.”

The workers emphasize the need for accountability. They believe Bastian should be held responsible for alleged interference and his refusal to address the neutrality request. Ultimately, they seek a platform for Delta employees to organize freely, without fear of intimidation or coercion.

Read the complete letter. 

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America and represents nearly 600,000 active and retired members in the manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, transportation, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.

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IAM District 142 Negotiating Committee members for American Airlines recently visited the IAM William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center in Hollywood, Md., for an entire week of Negotiations Prep Training.

The intense program prepares the negotiating committee for collective bargaining with American Airlines management. The topics covered include roles and responsibilities of the committee, identifying critical tasks in preparing for negotiations, using bargaining surveys, and locating and interpreting information concerning the employer’s financial situation.

“The IAM looks forward to sitting down at the table with our Transport Workers Union partners to bring back an industry-leading contract for all maintenance and related workers at American Airlines,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen.  

The team heard directly from many department heads, including Legal, Strategic Resources, Communications, and Air Transport Territory department heads.

“It’s important these members participated in this training,” said IAM Air Transport Territory Chief of Staff Edison Fraser. “It’s important the team talks strategies and collaborate to become an effective voice at the table.”

“This IAM team is solid and ready to fight hard for the members and their families; I couldn’t be more proud of the hard work they have been putting in to prepare for these upcoming talks,” said IAM District 142 President and Directing Chair John Coveny.

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WASHINGTON, March 8, 2024 – Atlantic Aviation workers at the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport voted overwhelmingly to join the IAM Union. Approximately 33 workers who handle ground operations at the airport voted in the election held on Wednesday, March 6. 

The campaign, which commenced in 2023, primarily focused on addressing scheduling and hours worked issues. Through the collective efforts of the workers and the IAM Union, this victory marks a significant step forward for labor rights in the aviation industry.

“This decision reflects the dedication and determination of these experienced aviation workers to secure better working conditions and fair treatment,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “By joining the IAM, these workers have taken a bold step towards safeguarding their rights and ensuring a brighter future for themselves and their families. I want to thank District 141 for their leadership in this organizing victory.” 

“The solidarity displayed by the Atlantic Aviation workers throughout this campaign has been truly inspiring,” said IAM District 141 Organizing Director Frank Giannola. “Their commitment to each other and their stand on the principles of fairness and justice has resulted in this historic victory. We look forward to working together to negotiate a strong contract that addresses their concerns.”

“I want to congratulate the Atlantic Aviation workers on their victory,” said IAM District 141 President and Directing General Chair Mike Klemm. “I want to thank Frank for ensuring everyone voting had the information to make the best decision. “Our next step is to sit down with Atlantic Aviation and get the best contract for our IAM members working at the Aspen Airport.” 

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is the largest and most powerful airline union in North America, representing more than 100,000 air transport members in North America. The IAM is one of the largest and most diverse industrial trade unions in North America, representing approximately 600,000 active and retired members in the aerospace, defense, airlines, railroad, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries.

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ATLANTA, March 2, 2024 – U.S. Rep. Nikema Williams (D-Ga.) has voiced her staunch support for the ongoing organizing efforts of the Delta Air Lines union coalition. As the representative of the “Fighting Fifth” Congressional District, she represents both the international headquarters of Delta Air Lines and thousands of Delta employees.

In a letter to Delta CEO Ed Bastian, Willams underscores the significance of supporting workers’ rights and the broader Atlanta community. 

Her Georgia colleagues, U.S. Reps. David Scott, Sanford Bishop and Hank Johnson have also called on Delta Air Lines and CEO Ed Bastian to create a pathway to ensure Delta workers are free to join the union without fear or interference. 

• Third Georgia Congressman Urges Delta Air Lines to Remain Neutral in Union Organizing Campaign
• Georgia Congressman David Scott Urges Delta Air Lines to Remain Neutral in Union Organizing Campaign
• Georgia Congressman Sanford Bishop Urges Delta Air Lines to Remain Neutral in Union Organizing Campaign

The support from members of the Georgia Congressional Delegation comes after a Congressional Labor Caucus letter that garnered 146 members of Congress to sign on, including Republican U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (Pa.). Five other Republican members of Congress also penned a letter to Delta CEO Ed Bastian.

Williams, a union member, recently participated at the U.S. House of Representatives’ Labor Caucus workers’ roundtable to hear about Delta Air Lines workers’ organizing and collective bargaining efforts.

The worker roundtable discussion was hosted by the Congressional Labor Caucus Co-Chairs Rep. Donald Norcross (D-N.J.), Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wis.), Rep. Debbie Dingell (D-Mich.) and Rep. Steven Horsford (D-Nev.). 

“I have recently heard from the various unions about their organizing efforts and want to make clear my support for workers – many of whom are myconstituents – to be free to make their own decisions regarding unionization without fear of retaliation or intimidation from either management or their peers,” wrote Williams in her letter to Delta CEO Ed Bastian. “I urge you to continue to adhere to the non-interference requirements of the Railway Labor Act and to take any allegations of interference seriously.”

“We are grateful for Rep. Williams’ solidarity with Delta workers,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “Her commitment to ensuring workers’ voices are heard and respected is crucial in our fight for fairness and dignity in the workplace. Her constituents at Delta Air Lines deserve a fair shake at improving their lives.”

Upwards of 55,000 Delta employees are currently engaged in a campaign to join unions. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is currently organizing Delta ramp, cargo, and tower workers. The Association of Flight Attendants (AFA-CWA) is signing up flight attendants, and the Teamsters are supporting technicians and related crafts.

Delta Air Lines management has threatened employees with termination for union activities. It hosts an anti-union website and distributes literature threatening workers seeking to organize.

Delta Air Lines is the only U.S.-based mainline carrier where a union does not represent flight attendants, fleet service, and mechanics – only 20 percent of Delta workers are unionized. 

Unionized Delta pilots recently endorsed the joint IAM, AFA-CWA, and Teamsters campaign to organize Delta workers. 

Read the complete letter here. 

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America and represents nearly 600,000 active and retired members in the manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, transportation, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.

goIAM.org | @MachinistsUnion

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Georgia Congressman Hank Johnson Comes Out in Support of Delta Workers

 U.S. Rep. Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) became the third member of Congress in Georgia to call for Delta Air Lines to create a pathway to ensure workers are free to join the union without fear or interference. Rep. Johnson urged Delta to remain a good-faith partner as these discussions continue and respect the decisions of its employees, regardless of the outcome. 

U.S. Rep. David Scott (D-Ga.) joined the growing call for Delta Air Lines to create a pathway to ensure workers are free to join the union without fear or interference. U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.) also wrote a letter to Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian calling on Delta Air Lines to uphold its reputation for excellence and fairness by respecting the rights of its employees to decide on unionization without interference.

“I strongly support all workers’ right to collectively bargain for better wages, benefits, and working conditions and to enjoy the well-earned fruits of their labor,” wrote Johnson in the letter to Delta CEO Ed Bastian. “They deserve to feel seen and heard, and that includes the ability to make a well-informed decision regarding collective bargaining, without fear of retaliation from their employer. I urge Delta to remain a good faith partner as these discussions continue and respect the decision of its employees, regardless of the outcome.

“Congressman Johnson is a champion for working families; his support means a lot to Delta workers living in his district,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “I applaud him for speaking up for what is right and giving his constituents a voice. We hope Delta management listens to Congressman Johnson and other elected officials in their call for neutrality in this campaign.” 

Upwards of 55,000 Delta employees are currently engaged in a campaign to join unions. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is currently organizing Delta ramp, cargo, and tower workers. The Association of Flight Attendants (AFA-CWA) is signing up flight attendants, and the Teamsters are supporting technicians and related crafts.

This third letter from a sitting member of the Georgia Congressional Delegation comes after five more Republican members of Congress penned a letter to Delta CEO Ed Bastian. The Congressional Labor Caucus letter garnered 146 members of Congress to sign on, including Republican U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (Pa.).

Delta Air Lines management has threatened employees with termination for union activities. It hosts an anti-union website and distributes literature threatening workers seeking to organize.

Delta Air Lines is the only U.S.-based mainline carrier where a union does not represent flight attendants, fleet service, and mechanics – only 20 percent of Delta workers are unionized. 

Unionized Delta pilots recently endorsed the joint IAM, AFA-CWA, and Teamsters campaign to organize Delta workers. 

Read the complete letter here.

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U.S. Rep. David Scott (D-Ga.) joined the growing call for Delta Air Lines to create a pathway to ensure workers are free to join the union without fear or interference.

“As a longtime fighter for unions, I stand alongside the Delta flight attendants, fleet service workers, and technicians fighting to organize and join a union,” wrote Scott in a statement. “The pathway to ensure workers remain free to join the union of their choice must exist without fear of reprisal or interference. Delta has a long history of employing unionized workgroups across its operations and fostering an inclusive workplace culture, and I look forward to working with all sides to protect workers’ freedom to make their own decisions.”

U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop (D-Ga.) also wrote a letter to Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian calling on Delta Air Lines to uphold its reputation for excellence and fairness by respecting the rights of its employees to decide on unionization without interference.

“It means a lot to Delta workers in Georgia to have the dean of the Georgia Congressional Delegation weigh in on their behalf,” said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. “Georgia has always been vital in the fight for human rights, civil rights, and union rights for workers. The IAM will continue to provide Delta workers the support they need to voice their freedom to have respect and dignity at Delta Air Lines.” 

Upwards of 55,000 Delta employees are currently engaged in a campaign to join unions. The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is currently organizing Delta ramp, cargo, and tower workers. The Association of Flight Attendants (AFA-CWA) is signing up flight attendants, and the Teamsters are supporting technicians and related crafts.

This latest letter comes after five more Republican members of Congress penned a letter to Delta CEO Ed Bastian. The Congressional Labor Caucus letter garnered 146 members of Congress to sign on, including Republican U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (Pa.).

Delta Air Lines management has threatened employees with termination for union activities. It hosts an anti-union website and distributes literature threatening workers seeking to organize.

Delta Air Lines is the only U.S.-based mainline carrier where a union does not represent flight attendants, fleet service, and mechanics – only 20 percent of Delta workers are unionized. 

Unionized Delta pilots recently endorsed the joint IAM, AFA-CWA, and Teamsters campaign to organize Delta workers. 

Read the statement here.

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