The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 142 has announced a tentative four-year collective bargaining agreement with Southwest Airlines covering the carrier's 5,300 customer service and reservation agents.

"This tentative agreement recognizes the vital role IAM members play in Southwest's success by providing wage increases today and enhanced retirement benefits tomorrow," said IAM District 142 President Tom Higginbotham. "The tentative agreement provides retroactive wage increases, increased employer 401(k) contributions and expands job security provisions."

Negotiations began August 28, 2008, and the current agreement became amendable on October 31, 2008. The District 142 negotiating committee unanimously recommends membership ratification of the agreement. Complete terms will be released to the membership in the coming days and available at the IAM District 142 website. A membership ratification schedule is being developed.

The Machinists Union is the largest airline union in North America, representing more than 100,000 airline employees.

FMI: www.goiam.org, www.iamdl142.org