Reject Two-Tiered Wage System, Vote To Strike

Teamster mechanics have voted overwhelmingly to reject United Airlines’ final offer and authorize a strike. There are over 9,000 mechanics in the bargaining unit. Over 93 percent of mechanics who voted cast ballots against the company’s offer.

“The membership has spoken clearly. The final offer from United Airlines was soundly rejected today and the membership has authorized a strike because of the substandard proposition,” said Jim Hoffa, Teamsters General President. “At a time when United Airlines is incredibly profitable, it is clear that mechanics deserve a better offer from the company. United is profitable because of the dedication, passion and professionalism of their workers and the carrier needs to reflect those characteristics in their negotiating position. United needs to come back to the table and deliver an industry-leading contract for our hardworking mechanics.”

“The membership voted strongly against this substandard agreement. The idea of implementing B-Scale wages for incoming mechanics is unacceptable,” said Capt. David Bourne, Director of the Teamsters Airline Division. “There is no need to place the financial burden for this agreement on the backs of future mechanics. Executives at United Airlines are being compensated with million-dollar packages and the mechanics deserve their fair share.”

The leadership of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters will petition the National Mediation Board for a release to begin a strike.

On the UAL website focused on the labor talks, United Continental CEO Oscar Munoz said: "Although we are disappointed by this outcome, we are eager to get right back to the table."

(Source: Teamsters news release)

FMI: www.teamster.org