AMFA Organizing Drive to Replace Association

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Not true at all JB.
AMFA has long been fighting for better overall regs and rules and restrictions on outsourcing over seas for a many years. No union will stop any airline from going over seas for maint., that's a gimme. At least AMFA is involved deeply with overlooking the outsourcing by working with FAA, DOJ, elected officials and all kinds of other gov entities to oversee outsourcing overseas. Don't even try to say AMFA's never been involved, it's all over their web sight under the gov affairs info link, right there in writing and black and white. The latest post on AMFA's National web page about the new PAC ONLY representing the Mechanic and Related "Class and Craft" is just another step in the right direction for a better representation of their members. Just like the Pilots and F/A's also have their own PAC's solely representing their Class and Craft as well. This is why AMFA is getting so popular for representing the Mechanic and Related, and not 12 different groups from several different classes and crafts from people preparing or cooking food, to baggage handlers, bus drivers, truck drivers, customer service, office workers etc...
Don't worry there JB, a vote IS coming, it's only a matter of who will all be included in the Class and Craft after all the appeals and challenges are ruled on by the NMB investigators.
At least this time the members will have a say so who will be representing them, not forced into a representation as they are currently. :)
Bull
 
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One thing people forget is outsourcing the TWU has agreed to, some may not see it my way OSM's and the other groups are also a form of outsourcing if they don't make the same wage as a AMT...... (They make almost what fleet makes)
 
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One thing people forget is outsourcing the TWU has agreed to, some may not see it my way OSM's and the other groups are also a form of outsourcing if they don't make the same wage as a AMT...... (They make almost what fleet makes)
One more thing about outsourcing. Sending our heavies to overhaul facilities in the USA. Doesn’t have to be over seas or outside our borders. One last thing about outsourcing. Many don't see this but how many flights went from AA to AE and Envoy? That's loss of work for pilots, flight attendants, gate agents, rampers, aircraft maintenance, dispatchers, tech services and anyone else who touches the flight in a physical or virtual way.
 
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I knew you were gonna force me to prove ya wrong, here's just the first page on Gov Affairs from AMFA National's web page. It's all there in Black and White, happy reading...


GOVERNMENT AFFAIRS LATEST NEWS



Letter to President Biden Regarding Workforce
August 5, 2021 --As the nation shifts from economic survival to recovery, we again face an acute shortage of aviation technicians that threatens the vitality of the U.S. aerospace sector and the safe, affordable and reliable air transportation system to which Americans are accustomed. The undersigned organizations, representing a broad cross-section of the aviation industry, seek your assistance and leadership in directing the federal government to use its full authority and influence to ensure a vibrant and sustainable aviation workforce.
Press Release: AMFA Launches First Ever Political Action Committee Solely Representing the Aircraft Mechanic and Related Craft
August 3, 2021 -- The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) is excited to announce a new and unique political action committee (PAC) dedicated to promoting the aircraft mechanic and related craft. AMFA PAC is the first and only PAC funded solely by aircraft mechanics with their specific issues at the forefront, and is poised to change the landscape surrounding the profession by mobilizing mechanics for change and helping to elect officials that will work for them.
AMFA Supports Aviation Funding Stability Act of 2021
June 22, 2021 -- Today, Chair of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Peter DeFazio (D-OR) and Chair of the Subcommittee on Aviation Rick Larsen (D-WA) joined Representatives Bob Gibbs (R-OH) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) in introducing the Aviation Funding Stability Act of 2021. This legislation would protect Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) programs and personnel, and the U.S. aviation industry as a whole, from the effects of future federal government shutdowns.
Senators Markey, Wicker, And Blumenthal Applaud Senate Committee Passage Of Bipartisan Air Travel Task Force Legislation
May 12, 2021 -- Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Senate Commerce Committee Ranking Member Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) today applauded the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee’s bipartisan passage of their Ensuring Health Safety in the Skies Act. This bill builds on ongoing COVID-19 response efforts and influenced a Biden administration executive order calling for interagency cooperation to develop national public health recommendations for domestic travel.
Support Builds Among American Workers for the “Fair and Open Skies Act”
May 11, 2021 -- “AMFA supports the Fair and Open Skies Act and what it stands for: fair competition that benefits both American workers and American consumers. Aircraft mechanics work with our fellow pilots and flight attendants to ensure the flying public is safe, and we are troubled by the ‘flags of convenience model’ that could threaten aviation safety and security. We applaud Chair DeFazio for leading a bipartisan group of Members in introducing this legislation,” Bret Oestreich, National Director, Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association said.
FY 2022 Funding for Aviation Technician & Pilot Workforce Grant Programs
April 20, 2021 -- As you begin the FY 2022 appropriations process, the 42 undersigned organizations, representing aviation maintainers, commercial operators, general and business aviation, manufacturers, labor organizations, educators, airports, and state and local government officials urge you to once again fully fund the aviation workforce development grant programs created by Sec. 625 of the 2018 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) law.
Joint Kelly and SWA Unions Letter to White House
February 8, 2021 -- On behalf of the Management and Unions at Southwest Airlines, we respectfully ask your Administration to refrain from imposing any federal mandate to require a pre-departure COVID-19 test for air travel within the United States. We believe such a mandate would be counterproductive, costly, and have serious unintended consequences, including for millions of people who have travel needs but may not have access to testing resources and for the millions of people whose livelihoods depend on a stable air travel industry.
Memo: Payroll Support Protection (PSP) Extension
December 21, 2020 -- Congress has reached a tentative deal on a stimulus that includes a PSP Extension. While we wait for the House and Senate to vote, and the President’s signature for it to become law, the following summarizes the extension...
Press Release: Secretary of Transportation Appoints Aircraft Maintenance Technician to Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee
December 8, 2020 -- The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) applauds Secretary of Transportation Elaine L. Chao for her decision to appoint an aircraft maintenance technician (AMT) to the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee (ARAC). AMFA Executive Director of Government Affairs and Southwest Airlines AMT Justin Madden’s appointment to the ARAC fills a critical void in the Committee’s membership.
The Promoting Aviation Regulations for Technical Training (PARTT) 147 Act — Industry Support Letter
December 7, 2020 -- The undersigned organizations, representing a broad cross-section of the aviation community, strongly urge your support of the PARTT 147 Act (S.3043/H.R.5427). The bill would mandate Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulatory reform of aviation technician education, empower innovative curriculum development, and reinforce a workforce pipeline that will be vital to a strong, post-pandemic recovery.
Download: 20201207_PARTT147Act-IndustrySupportLtr.pdf
AMFA Statement: TWU/IAM Scare Tactics and Lobbying
October 22, 2020 -- In an effort to scare its membership into remaining members of a poorly run union, the TWU/IAM Association is trying to play up their clout in Washington D.C. while de-emphasizing AMFA’s contributions and their importance to the aircraft mechanic and related maintenance workers’ class and craft. There is no doubt that the IAM and TWU parent organizations spend considerable resources maintaining offices in and around Washington, D.C. They often lobby on behalf of their membership, but how much of that lobbying and money spent is actually for the aircraft mechanic and related?
Congressional Letter in Support of Extending PSP
October 9, 2020 -- Today, on behalf of AMFA’s membership and our craft, the National Director wrote a letter to Congressional leadership in support of extending Payroll Support Protection (PSP) for six additional months. In the letter, he indicated that “as the unseen backbone of the aviation industry,” aircraft mechanics and related are essential to the economic recovery of the nation, and urged leadership to either pass the bipartisan stand-alone legislation or include a PSP extension in any impending stimulus.
Download: 20201009_Memo_CongressionalLetter_RE_PSP_Funding_Ext final.pdf
Press Release: Aircraft Mechanics Support Restoring Safety in the Skies Act of 2020
October 1, 2020 -- Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) National Director Bret Oestreich released the following statement: On behalf of the more than 4,000 aircraft mechanics representing Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air, and Southwest Airlines, AMFA applauds Senate passage of the Restoring Safety in the Skies Act of 2020 introduced by Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and Chairman Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) and commends these Senators for their prudence and leadership on this issue.
Alaska Air Group and Union Letter to Secretary Mnuchin, Chief of Staff Meadows, Speaker Pelosi, Leader McCarthy, Leader McConnell, and Leader Schumer Regarding CARES Act PSP
September 24, 2020 -- On behalf of the 23,000 employees of Alaska Air Group's wholly owned airlines, Alaska Airlines (Alaska) and Horizon Air (Horizon), thank you for your leadership during these challenging times. We write to you today just six months from our last joint letter to request that you once again come together and sustain aviation jobs with an extension of the Payroll Support Program (PSP), created in the CARES Act, in order to prevent involuntary furloughs at our airlines.
Southwest Airlines and Unions Letter to President Trump, Speaker Pelosi, Leader McCarthy, Leader McConnell, and Leader Schumer Regarding CARES Act PSP
September 21, 2020 -- When we wrote to you in March, the size and scale of the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on the airline industry were still largely unknown. Cases were few, death rates low, and yet our industry was instantly decimated. The fate of airlines, including Southwest Airlines, hung in the balance. Your work was critical and appreciated to bring the CARES Act to fruition, providing much needed payroll support and acting as a stop-gap while our country and our industry worked toward recovery.
Memo: Call to Action Regarding CARES Act PSP Funding Extension
September 18, 2020 -- We are less than two weeks from the CARES Act Payroll Support Program (PSP) end date of September 30, 2020. This program has guaranteed wages for airline employees during this period of severely depressed demand due to the COVID-19 pandemic, while avoiding layoffs that have been announced as being necessary by several major airlines.
COVID-19 Task Forces Must Have Aviation Industry Labor Representation
May 29, 2020 -- The COVID-19 pandemic has affected so many elements of our country and our world — and will affect the aviation ecosystem for years to come. Creating a workable plan for this “new normal” is crucial. Several federal agencies are putting together internal task forces, while Congress has proposed legislation enacting similar advisory groups, most notably the collaborative task force established by the Restoring Safety in the Skies Act introduced by Senators Markey (D-MA) and Blumenthal (D-CT) and supported by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA).
Press Release: Aircraft Mechanics Support Restoring Safety in the Skies Act of 2020
May 15, 2020 -- Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) National Director Bret Oestreich released the following statement: On behalf of the over 4,000 aircraft mechanics representing Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air, and Southwest Airlines, AMFA supports the Restoring Safety in the Skies Act of 2020 introduced by Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.). The creation of a task force to deal with the unprecedented effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on aviation and to contemplate the new normal is essential...
Airlines Must Take The Relief Grants To Help Their Employees
March 31, 2020 -- On March 27, Congress passed a massive financial package to relieve the unprecedented economic impact from the global COVID-19 pandemic, which the President signed into law. This includes targeted relief to airlines like the ones where our expert mechanics currently work, Southwest, Alaska and Horizon.
Press Release: Aircraft Mechanics Across the United States Applaud the Passage of the CARES Act
March 27, 2020 -- Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) National Director Bret Oestreich, released the following statement: On behalf of the over 4,000 aircraft mechanics representing Alaska Airlines, Horizon Air, and Southwest Airlines, AMFA applauds the U.S. Congress passage of bipartisan legislation to provide financial stability to the hard-working men and women on the front lines providing safety and security to the American flying public during this unparalleled time of adversity. In addition to the unprecedented health crisis we are facing, the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has brought with it devastating economic consequences. And now, the airline workers are at the front line of one the most economically impacted industries.
AMFA Provides Input to Congress Regarding Potential Airline Industry Bailout Package
March 19, 2020 -- The swiftly developing COVID-19 pandemic has caused a rapid increase in airline passenger cancellations, while also producing a severe decline in future bookings. To date, most airlines have responded with capacity cuts and flight cancellations. The airlines have both collectively and individually expressed immense concern about the industry’s economic health to the US government, and requested a substantial financial assistance package to help navigate through this difficult time. The White House has indicated support, with the President vowing to “back the airlines 100 percent,” and the task of negotiating a package is now with the Legislative Branch.
AMFA Supports Proposed Legislation Creating a National Center for the Advancement of Aviation
February 28, 2020 -- Legislation was recently introduced in the Senate that would stand up a National Center for the Advancement of Aviation (NCAA). Senator Inhofe (R-OK) and Senator Duckworth (D-IL) proposed this NCAA in S.3360 with the purpose of focusing on four areas: aviation and aerospace STEM curriculum; workforce development; economic and safety data research and sharing; and a forum for cross-disciplinary collaboration. AMFA is joining a broad coalition of support and encourages Congress to act on this proposed legislation.
Press Release: The Safe Aircraft Maintenance Standards Act is a Huge Step Forward
November 15, 2019 -- Today House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Chairman Peter DeFazio (D-OR) introduced The Safe Aircraft Maintenance Standards Act, calling for unannounced FAA inspections of foreign repair stations, minimum qualifications for mechanics and others working on U.S.-registered aircraft at foreign repair stations, data gathering and analysis, a conditional moratorium on FAA certification of new foreign repair stations, and requiring the FAA to a create an online repository for carriers to report heavy maintenance history by location and specific aircraft registration number, as well as other safety metrics.
Garamendi, Zeldin Reintroduce Aircraft Maintenance Outsourcing Disclosure Act
AMFA supports the Aircraft Maintenance Outsourcing Disclosure Act reintroduced by Representative Garamendi (D, CA). This bill accomplishes important changes:

  • Requires airlines to disclose the maintenance history for their aircraft fleets, specifically the location and date an aircraft underwent heavy maintenance
  • Airlines would be required to post this information online, distribute it with tickets, and communicate it to passengers upon request
  • Airlines would also be required to submit an annual report to a new Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) database that tracks the maintenance history of their aircraft fleet
  • Database will also indicate whether maintenance was conducted in the United States or abroad; by FAA-certified mechanics or not; or by airline employees or third-party contractors
The text of the bill can be view by clicking here.
Presidential Message on Aviation Maintenance Technician Day
May 24, 2019 -- Each day, millions of Americans rely on our Nation’s strong aviation infrastructure to travel and do business. On Aviation Maintenance Technician Day, we acknowledge the thousands of hardworking men and women who help ensure the safety, security, and reliability of the aviation industry. Click here to read more.
Presidential Message on Aviation Maintenance Technician Day
May 24, 2019 -- Each day, millions of Americans rely on our Nation’s strong aviation infrastructure to travel and do business. On Aviation Maintenance Technician Day, we acknowledge the thousands of hardworking men and women who help ensure the safety, security, and reliability of the aviation industry.
Press Release: AMFA Leads Effort to Encourage the White House to Recognize the Importance of Aircraft Maintenance Technicians
May 24, 2019 – The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) joined several labor and industry groups to encourage President Trump to officially recognize Aviation Maintenance Technician (AMT) Day, May 24. AMFA also galvanized support from members of Congress to formally recognize AMT Day on floor of the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives.
Download: 20190500_Ltr_to_WH_re_AMT_Day.pdf
Senators Call for FAA Probe After CBS News Report on Mechanics Being Pressured to Ignore Safety Issues
February 12, 2019 -- We write to inquire about steps the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is taking to investigate and address reports that airlines are pressuring their mechanics to ignore safety issues and short-cut the critical work they perform.
Industry Support for Aviation Funding Stability Act of 2019 (H.R. 1108)
February 12, 2019 -- We write today to convey our strong support for the Aviation Funding Stability Act of 2019 (H.R. 1108) which would authorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to draw from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund (AATF) in the event of a government shutdown. During the recent shutdown, air traffic controllers and other aviation safety professionals were forced to work without pay and thousands of others were furloughed.
Memo: Important FAA Legislation Signed Into Law
October 8, 2018 -- Last week was a busy one in Washington, DC. In addition to the Senate confirmation of a Supreme Court Justice, important legislation passed that directly affects our craft. After years of discussion and a few whirlwind weeks of negotiating a compromise behind closed doors, the House and Senate both passed a FAA Reauthorization Bill, which the President signed into law Friday afternoon, October 5, 2018. Contained within the bill’s 1,200 pages, the most important provision is authorizing the agency for five years.
FAA Reauthorization & Disaster Program Reforms Signed into Law
October 5, 2018 -- Today, the President signed into law a measure (H.R. 302) that includes a major five-year reauthorization of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), as well as a package of federal disaster program reforms that will save lives and reduce the growing cost impacts of disasters of all types.
Press Release: DeFazio, Larsen Letter to Secretary Chao Expressing “Serious Concerns” of FAA oversight of Foreign Repair Stations
July 3, 2018 -- Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) National Director Bret Oestreich, released the following statement: “Last week House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure Ranking Member Peter DeFazio and Subcommittee on Aviation Ranking Member Rick Larsen sent a letter to Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao expressing ‘serious concerns’ of the Federal Aviation Administration’s oversight of foreign repair stations. Specifically, Mr. DeFazio and Mr. Larsen called attention to the FAA’s continued ‘failure’ to finalize a rule requiring workers to be screened for alcohol and controlled substances at FAA certificated foreign repair stations – implementing the same safety standard the U.S. workforce adheres to.
Download: DeFazio_Larsen_Ltr_to_Sec_Chao_20180628.pdf
Press Release: AMFA Supports Aircraft Maintenance Outsourcing Disclosure Act
June 12, 2018 -- The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) supports the recently introduced legislation by Senator Claire McCaskill (MO) and the companion legislation introduced by Representative John Garamendi (CA-03) which raises awareness for the dangerous trend of outsourcing aircraft maintenance to foreign repair stations.
Press Release: TSA Administrator Appoints Aircraft Maintenance Technician to Aviation Safety Advisory Committee
May 25, 2018 -- The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) applauds Transportation Security Administration Administrator David P. Pekoske for his decision to appoint an aircraft maintenance technician (AMT) to the Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC). AMFA Legislative Affairs Director Justin Madden’s appointment to the ASAC fills a critical void in the Committee’s membership.
AMFA Letters to Congress Regarding Safety and the Importance of our Craft's Voice
In light of recent events, today AMFA sent the attached letters regarding safety and the importance of our craft to the leaders of the Senate Commerce Committee and House Transportation and Infrastructure Committees.
Download: 20180425_SWA_Flight_1380_Ltr_to_House.pdf , 20180425_SWA_Flight_1380_Ltr_to_Senate.pdf
Special Legislative Update: Meeting at the White House
November 21, 2017 -- The White House recently requested a meeting with the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) to discuss foreign outsourcing. Yesterday, AMFA’s legislative affairs team -- Justin Madden, Legislative Affairs Director and Commonwealth Strategic Partners -- and I met with a representative of the White House Domestic Policy Council in Washington, D.C.
Press Release: AMFA Supports Chairman Katko’s Recommendation to TSA to Include Aircraft Maintenance Technician Union on ASAC
August 16, 2017 -- The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) applauds Chairman John Katko’s recommendation to TSA Acting Administrator Huban Gowadia to include an AMT union on the Aviation Security Advisory Committee (ASAC).
Press Release: AMFA Opposes DOT Approval of NAI Foreign Air Carrier Permit
December 7, 2016 – The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) is opposed to the recent decision by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to approve a foreign air carrier permit to Norwegian Air International (NAI). AMFA National Director, Bret Oestreich, stated, “Since 2014, AMFA has consistently opposed NAI’s application to operate routes between the U.S. and Europe. The U.S. Department of Transportation decision to approve this permit is another blow to the U.S. aviation workforce. NAI’s ‘flag of convenience’ is an outright attempt to circumvent the US-EU Open Skies Agreement which was established to protect the men and women working in the U.S. aviation industry.”
Press Release: AMFA Applauds the Inclusion of Greater Oversight and Accountability for Foreign Repair Station Employees in FAA Extension
July 7, 2016 -- On behalf of the over 3,000 Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines aircraft maintenance technicians, AMFA applauds House Transportation & Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster and Ranking Member Peter DeFazio and Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee Chairman John Thune and Ranking Member Bill Nelson for the inclusion of greater oversight and accountability of foreign repair station employees in the FAA Extension bill.
Press Release: AMFA Applauds the Inclusion of Greater Oversight and Accountability for Foreign Repair Station Employees in Senate FAA Reauthorization
March 9, 2016 -- Louie Key, National Director of the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, released the following statement: On behalf of the over 3,000 Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines aircraft maintenance technicians, AMFA applauds Senate Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee Chairman John Thune, and Ranking Member Bill Nelson for the inclusion of greater oversight and accountability of foreign repair station employees in the FAA Reauthorization Bill. Safety is the cornerstone of the pact between the aircraft maintenance technician and the American flying public.
FAA Reform Bill Addresses Security Gaps
Last October, a Russian plane carrying 224 men, women, and children crashed in the Sinai Peninsula of Egypt. All 224 people on board were killed. It is now suspected that an aircraft maintenance technician from EgyptAir planted the bomb on the plane. While many of the details surrounding this incident remain unclear, the fact that an aircraft maintenance technician could be involved should horrify all of us. The men and women I represent are fully committed to the safety and security of the passengers and planes we service. Our motto, “Safety in the air begins with quality maintenance on the ground,” underscores our commitment to the American flying public.
Press Release: AMFA Applauds the Inclusion of Greater Oversight and Accountability for Foreign Repair Station Employees in FAA Reauthorization
Louie Key, National Director of the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, released the following statement: On behalf of the over 3,000 Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines aircraft maintenance technicians, AMFA applauds House Transportation Committee Chairman Bill Shuster for the inclusion of greater oversight and accountability of foreign repair station employees in the FAA reauthorization bill.
Press Release: At AMFA’s Urging, Congressmen Request Drug Testing on Foreign Repair Stations in FAA Reauth
Louie Key, National Director of the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, released the following statement: AMFA applauds Congressman Ryan Costello, Congressman Dan Lipinski, and Congressman Lou Barletta’s leadership in requesting House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Bill Shuster and Ranking Member Peter DeFazio to include a mandatory drug and alcohol testing policy of foreign repair station mechanics in the upcoming FAA reauthorization.
AMFA Visits Washington DC to Discuss Our Craft’s Issues
The National Director and National Secretary/Treasurer met with various Congressman and a Senator to discuss our legislative agenda and how Congress can help AMFA achieve our craft’s legislative goals. With the FAA Reauthorization Bill process beginning in earnest soon, Louie Key and Justin Madden were able to convey AMFA’s position and urge our elected representatives to take action on our issues.
AMFA Joins the Battle Against Norwegian Air International’s Application for a Foreign Air Carrier Permit
The Association has joined the fight against the foreign air carrier permit of Norwegian Airlines International (NAI). Our hope is that the Secretary Foxx will recognize the arguments that we’ve made, which echo the opposition of our industry and labor colleagues both domestically and within the European Union, and send NAI back to the drawing board to craft a business plan that doesn't undermine established international rules and obligations, particularly those involving labor.
AMFA Comment to FAA Regarding Foreign Repair Station Drug Testing Requirements
The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) appreciates the opportunity to provide comment on the FAA advance notice of proposed rulemaking. AMFA supports the FAA effort to implement drug and alcohol testing requirements on foreign repair station employees. AMFA further supports a drug and alcohol testing framework that imposes equal standards on both foreign and domestic aircraft maintenance technicians. AMFA is the only craft specific, independent aviation union that represents over 3,000 aircraft maintenance technicians and related support personnel at Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines as well as advocates on behalf of our craft.
 
One more thing about outsourcing. Sending our heavies to overhaul facilities in the USA. Doesn’t have to be over seas or outside our borders. One last thing about outsourcing. Many don't see this but how many flights went from AA to AE and Envoy? That's loss of work for pilots, flight attendants, gate agents, rampers, aircraft maintenance, dispatchers, tech services and anyone else who touches the flight in a physical or virtual way.
So true. Don't matter in or out of US, outsourcing is outsourcing. Admittedly we do a bunch @ around the 65-72% level of outsourcing. However, it's been that way from day one IAM, inherited by the teamsters and inherited again when AMFA took over representation from the teamsters. At the same time at least AMFA has been the only representational union that has worked with the company to bring in house more work than any of the other representational groups all put together, and that is fact.

Hope to hear something soon on the results of the appeals and objections from the NMB about the vote. It has been a long, long waiting period to say the least.
There will be more work to do once the announcement is made and the industrial union being threatened awakes and hears the final ruling of the NMB...
 
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So true. Don't matter in or out of US, outsourcing is outsourcing. Admittedly we do a bunch @ around the 65-72% level of outsourcing. However, it's been that way from day one IAM, inherited by the teamsters and inherited again when AMFA took over representation from the teamsters. At the same time at least AMFA has been the only representational union that has worked with the company to bring in house more work than any of the other representational groups all put together, and that is fact.

Hope to hear something soon on the results of the appeals and objections from the NMB about the vote. It has been a long, long waiting period to say the least.
There will be more work to do once the announcement is made and the industrial union being threatened awakes and hears the final ruling of the NMB...
In regards to the upcoming decision soon........

I understand that the NMB investigator has all the information needed to make a decision but at some point has decided to move it to a three board member panel to make a final decision. Now in my opinion only I believe that this three member panel has to review all the information before making a decision. This process will obviously take time. Then the three members will confide and discuss their views or findings. More time wasted. Then if they are unsure or feel more information is needed for better clarification you will see requests made to the company and unions through legal representatives. More time wasted. Remember we had one investigator at first. Now we will have three with three different views and opinions. All my opinion.

In the end of all this we should have a representational election called. I hope we don't see some kind of national crises occur and the NMB will post pone all investigations until further notice. This should have been wrapped up months ago.
 
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In regards to the upcoming decision soon........

I understand that the NMB investigator has all the information needed to make a decision but at some point has decided to move it to a three board member panel to make a final decision. Now in my opinion only I believe that this three member panel has to review all the information before making a decision. This process will obviously take time. Then the three members will confide and discuss their views or findings. More time wasted. Then if they are unsure or feel more information is needed for better clarification you will see requests made to the company and unions through legal representatives. More time wasted. Remember we had one investigator at first. Now we will have three with three different views and opinions. All my opinion.

In the end of all this we should have a representational election called. I hope we don't see some kind of national crises occur and the NMB will post pone all investigations until further notice. This should have been wrapped up months ago.
Government in action.

That is why for the life of me I can't understand why so many on this board want the government to control every damn thing.
 
In regards to the upcoming decision soon........

I understand that the NMB investigator has all the information needed to make a decision but at some point has decided to move it to a three board member panel to make a final decision. Now in my opinion only I believe that this three member panel has to review all the information before making a decision. This process will obviously take time. Then the three members will confide and discuss their views or findings. More time wasted. Then if they are unsure or feel more information is needed for better clarification you will see requests made to the company and unions through legal representatives. More time wasted. Remember we had one investigator at first. Now we will have three with three different views and opinions. All my opinion.

In the end of all this we should have a representational election called. I hope we don't see some kind of national crises occur and the NMB will post pone all investigations until further notice. This should have been wrapped up months ago.
I too could see all your "opinions" being a possibility. Wonder why she or they chose to go to the 3 member panel? Could it be that both sides made very good sense on their arguments?? Sounds to me more like delays and stalling (also my opinion).
If I am not mistaken they still have not made a ruling in the Alaska MC's looking for AMFA representation as well. I kind of feel it's mostly on the gov side of things since there is more than just your group also still waiting for a ruling.
I know I was in hopes of hearing something this month, but, damn, we may be lucky to hear or see anything this year at this freaking rate...
 
FYI for all. JetBlue Maintenance Controllers filed with the NMB to have an election for AMFA representation. 80% plus cards delivered. And let's not forget the TWU was replaced at AA MC's with AMFA as well.
Just another professional group that understands the need for a Class and Craft representational entity to better represent their group, it's all about Class and Craft gentlemen.
Just another feather for AMFA to stick in their hat while we wait for the NMB's ruling to come out for the Mechanic and Related at AA. Great news for JB's MC's. And even more pressure on the asso. for the up coming announcement from the NMB :)

Oh and look there is a new link on the AMFA National web site for "AMFA at JETBLUE" click on to follow the election news folks...


Press Release: JetBlue MX Controllers File Representation Cards with NMB for AMFA
August 13, 2021 -- Today, The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) is proud to announce that it has filed for union representation with the National Mediation Board (NMB) on behalf of the Aircraft Maintenance Controllers at JetBlue. “AMFA is elated that this workgroup has placed its confidence in us as their craft specific union representation,” said Bret Oestreich, AMFA National Director.
Read More

How sweeeeeet it is!!!
 
FYI for all. JetBlue Maintenance Controllers filed with the NMB to have an election for AMFA representation. 80% plus cards delivered. And let's not forget the TWU was replaced at AA MC's with AMFA as well.
Just another professional group that understands the need for a Class and Craft representational entity to better represent their group, it's all about Class and Craft gentlemen.
Just another feather for AMFA to stick in their hat while we wait for the NMB's ruling to come out for the Mechanic and Related at AA. Great news for JB's MC's. And even more pressure on the asso. for the up coming announcement from the NMB :)

Oh and look there is a new link on the AMFA National web site for "AMFA at JETBLUE" click on to follow the election news folks...


Press Release: JetBlue MX Controllers File Representation Cards with NMB for AMFA
August 13, 2021 -- Today, The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) is proud to announce that it has filed for union representation with the National Mediation Board (NMB) on behalf of the Aircraft Maintenance Controllers at JetBlue. “AMFA is elated that this workgroup has placed its confidence in us as their craft specific union representation,” said Bret Oestreich, AMFA National Director.
Read More

How sweeeeeet it is!!!
A whopping 21 cards for a group of 30 who will have no voice given the dominant Southwest leadership at AMFA. What a joke!
 
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A whopping 21 cards for a group of 30 who will have no voice given the dominant Southwest leadership at AMFA. What a joke!
Not true at all JB.
Since you are one of those that seem to want to mislead with info., and not provide the entire picture and all the info, allow me to fix your posting info. right off the bat.
If it were (per your numbers) 21 cards out of 30 folks, that would have only been a 70% member card collection. Since Bret noted the "MORE THAN" 80% collected from the group, your numbers are not correct. Although, using your numbers would have still been a very impressive % of cards collected (70%). Better yet with an over 80% collection of cards for AMFA even speaks more volumes how popular AMFA is getting within the industry and it's just eating, (you) and the industrials, up inside.
You also have no clue how AMFA works internally either from your comments. The JetBlue members will have a greatly increased amount of their voices heard once they are represented by AMFA. Officials will get elected and represent their members in person and 24/7 within the very same work group with the AMFA Class and Craft union representing them. Their voices will be so overwhelmingly heard that it will peek the interest of the Mechanic and Related group once they see AMFA at work with the MC's.
As pointed out already, you seem to now be trying to use the number game for your agenda. Gee, that's exactly what you have going on at AA currently with the way, way over populated fleet and other groups outside the Mechanic and Related, where their numbers are overloaded with NON Mechanic and Related representation. Thanks for pointing that out for all to see, speaks volumes...

Now what will you say when the MC's at Alaska get a ruling to have a vote? And what will you really say when the Mechanic and related @ AA get their ruling to have a vote for AMFA too??
The snow ball affect has started and just keeps rolling downhill picking up momentum and all we can do is sit back and watch it all play out. :)
 
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Not true at all JB.
Since you are one of those that seem to want to mislead with info., and not provide the entire picture and all the info, allow me to fix your posting info. right off the bat.
If it were (per your numbers) 21 cards out of 30 folks, that would have only been a 70% member card collection. Since Bret noted the "MORE THAN" 80% collected from the group, your numbers are not correct. Although, using your numbers would have still been a very impressive % of cards collected (70%). Better yet with an over 80% collection of cards for AMFA even speaks more volumes how popular AMFA is getting within the industry and it's just eating, (you) and the industrials, up inside.
You also have no clue how AMFA works internally either from your comments. The JetBlue members will have a greatly increased amount of their voices heard once they are represented by AMFA. Officials will get elected and represent their members in person and 24/7 within the very same work group with the AMFA Class and Craft union representing them. Their voices will be so overwhelmingly heard that it will peek the interest of the Mechanic and Related group once they see AMFA at work with the MC's.
As pointed out already, you seem to now be trying to use the number game for your agenda. Gee, that's exactly what you have going on at AA currently with the way, way over populated fleet and other groups outside the Mechanic and Related, where their numbers are overloaded with NON Mechanic and Related representation. Thanks for pointing that out for all to see, speaks volumes...

Now what will you say when the MC's at Alaska get a ruling to have a vote? And what will you really say when the Mechanic and related @ AA get their ruling to have a vote for AMFA too??
The snow ball affect has started and just keeps rolling downhill picking up momentum and all we can do is sit back and watch it all play out. :)
Its 21 out of 30. 3 of them out on leave but they still vote...until Jerry Glass files the challenge that you can't carve them out ot TO...so true...all of it.
 
Its 21 out of 30. 3 of them out on leave but they still vote...until Jerry Glass files the challenge that you can't carve them out ot TO...so true...all of it.
What's this rumor that on the Friday confrence call Gary Schiable discussed a write in campaign for the twu? Does he sees the writing on the wall? Pun intended lol. True, so true all of it
 
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