Deal Will Go To The Rank And File For Ratification In March

The Teamsters Airline Division announced that it reached a tentative agreement on a new four-year contract with Republic Airways. The more than 2,200 pilots of Republic are represented by Teamsters Local 357 in Plainfield, IN and fly for the Republic sister-companies Chautauqua Airlines, Republic Airlines and Shuttle America.

The tentative agreement includes increases in pay that will place Republic pilots at or near the top of its regional airline peers. It also includes improvements in work rules, quality of life enhancements and more flexibility in scheduling as well as a significant signing bonus if ratified.

"This agreement reflects a hard-earned and well deserved achievement for the enhancement of pay and work conditions for the Republic pilot group," said Capt. David Bourne, Director of the Teamsters Airline Division. "It also sets a benchmark for the end of concessionary labor agreements in the regional airline industry."

"At a time when many of our competitors are moving in the opposite direction on pilot compensation, we are thrilled that Republic is able to significantly improve the wages and benefits of the more than 2,200 women and men who safely fly more than 1,300 daily scheduled flights for our major airline partners," Bryan Bedford, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Republic Airways, said in a press release.

"This TA reflects the dedication and hard work of the union and the company's negotiating committees," said Republic Airways Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Wayne Heller. "We thank the union representatives for their professionalism and commitment in reaching this agreement."

The agreement will be presented to union members for review and a formal ratification vote, which is expected in March.

FMI: www.teamsters.org