FedEx Pilot Leadership Reacts to 'Inflammatory' Statements

ALPA's FedEx Master Executive Council (MEC), is not happy with the war of words escalating lately as it attempts to get a new contract with the bosses. 

The pilots issued a statement regarding what they consider to be the spread of misinformation by corporate executives and the accusation that FedEx pilot leadership is divided in their quest for a new collective bargaining agreement. 

“On the heels of a decision by FedEx ALPA leadership to request a release from the National Mediation Board, a news article was published casting aspersions on FedEx ALPA leadership as a ‘rebel group’ and ‘insurgent.’ The timing of this article, coupled with a letter sent directly from senior management to pilots, raises serious concerns about the true intentions behind these communications.

“We are aware of tactics often associated with corporate attempts to undermine union solidarity, including the dissemination of inflammatory information and unsubstantiated allegations. Such actions only serve to distract from the real issue at hand—completing negotiations for a contract that we have earned.

“Contrary to attempts to divide our governing body and pilot group, we want to reaffirm that FedEx pilot leadership stands united in its pursuit of a contract that reflects the hard work and dedication of our members. The decision to request a release from the National Mediation Board was not taken lightly, but was made in the best interest of ensuring that a resolution to our contract negotiations was completed in a timely and constructive manner.

“While management may attempt to paint a picture of fiscal constraints and limited resources at the bargaining table, they make bold decisions in the board room that invest significant resources in activities such as billions of dollars of stock buybacks and moving ahead with technological advancements aimed at reducing the role of pilots in the flight deck. While at the same time, the Company keeps attempting to persuade its employees to find jobs elsewhere or convince us that there is no money for contract negotiations. 

“We urge management to remember that the true strength of the company lies in its workforce, and to prioritize the fair treatment of its employees. FedEx was built on the principle of putting people first, and it is time that management returns to its original values if the company desires to maintain its status as a global leader.

“We remain committed to negotiating in good faith and achieving a mutually beneficial agreement, but this can only be achieved through purposeful dialogue and genuine collaboration between both parties.”

Somehow, one expects the rancor to continue for a bit... we shall see. 

FMI: www.alpa.org