Carrier Hopes To Emerge From Bankruptcy By End Of Year

Earlier this week, representatives from Aloha Airlines told Aero-News members of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) Council 70 have ratified their new contract, joining the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA) and three other collective bargaining units in finalizing agreements with the Hawaiian carrier.

The agreements are seen as a show of support of Aloha's Plan of Reorganization to emerge from bankruptcy, which was approved by the Hawaii District of the US Bankruptcy Court. The plan aims to have the carrier emerge from bankruptcy protection by December 15, 2005 -- less than one year after the company filed for Chapter 11.

"First I must commend ALPA's Master Executive Committee leaders for the long hours they put in on behalf of their members, who have been asked once again to make tough decisions," said Aloha Airlines President and CEO David A. Banmiller. "I am proud and gratified that our pilots have now joined employees throughout the company in backing our Plan of Reorganization in time to meet a critical deadline for emerging from bankruptcy on December 15. Taking these steps speaks volumes about the hard-working men and women of Aloha Airlines who are dedicated to serving the State of Hawaii and the traveling public."

Pending approval of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, the new contracts covering all of Aloha's unionized employees will take effect immediately and run through April 30, 2009.

The other groups agreeing to new contracts with Aloha are the International Association of Machinists (IAM) Lodge 141 and Lodge 142, and the Transport Workers Union.

FMI: www.alohaairlines.com