Terms Include Improved Pay, Retirement, Grievance Resolution Process

In a vote announced this week by the National Mediation Board, Cape Air pilots represented by Teamsters Local Union 1224 in Wilmington, Ohio, ratified their first collective bargaining agreement. "I'm very happy for the Cape Air pilots," said Airline Division Director Capt. David Bourne. "The crewmembers of Cape Air have worked very hard for this agreement that addresses their most pressing needs and sets the stage for a brighter future. It is a testament to the member's focus and commitment to achieving a strong contract.

"The dedication of Executive Committee Chairman Marilyn Rhude, her negotiators, our International Representatives, Local 1224 President Dan Wells and the management of Cape Air was critical to the success of this agreement," Bourne said. "This agreement proves yet again that labor and management can work together for common goals and common good. I want to thank Cape Air Founder and CEO Dan Wolf and his management team, who took an open approach to negotiations that directly addressed our members concerns."

Cape Air Executive Council Chairman Capt. Marilyn Rhude echoed Bourne's sentiments.

"Today, the pilots of Cape Air voted to ratify our first collective bargaining agreement. This is a day that was a long time coming for our pilots, and is the culmination of two years of hard work by our pilot negotiating committee and the Airline Division representatives who worked side by side with us," Rhude said. "Without the cooperation of the management team, it would not have been possible."

The new contract includes an improved pay scale, 401k match, short and long term disability, an ASAP program and a grievance resolution process.

"I would especially like to thank General President Jim Hoffa and Airline Division Director Capt. David Bourne. It was because of the exceptional support from the Teamsters and the Airline Division – both in financial terms and representation assistance throughout this process – that we now have a good first contract on which to build our future. Now, with the help of our pilots, our next step is to begin the implementation process and we look forward to beginning that immediately."

FMI: www.teamster.org, www.capeair.com