Says The Agreement Was A Violation Of Their Contract

The Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association (SWAPA) said Monday it is pleased with Southwest Airlines' recognition of their Collective Bargaining Agreement with the pilots and the contract's prohibition against domestic codeshare. The codeshare agreement with SkyWest is a contract violation and the pilots of Southwest are pleased that the Company chose to honor the negotiated agreement in a timely fashion. The termination of the SkyWest codeshare agreement with AirTran allows both SWAPA and Southwest Airlines to concentrate and devote their collective energies on the tasks at hand.

"This move by our Company demonstrates a strong commitment to their pilots and our contract," said SWAPA President, Captain Steve Chase. "As a wholly owned subsidiary, AirTran and eventually Southwest, have the capability of flying into those markets and delivering superior service."

In late 2009, the Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association ratified its contract with Southwest Airlines that strictly prohibits domestic codeshare and greatly restricts codeshare to near-international destinations. This section of the contract is foundational to the protection of pilots' jobs and careers.

"It inspires confidence when your Company supports the interests of its employees and is willing to honor their negotiated contract," Chase added. "We are proud of the collaborative partnership we have with Southwest Airlines leadership and today's announcement is another example of the benefits of that relationship."

FMI: www.swapa.org