September 24, 2003
AFL-CIO Unions Support Machinists
in US Airways Dispute The 35 unions affiliated with the AFL-CIO’s Transportation Trades Department (TTD) pledged their support to the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 141-M in their dispute with US Airways over potential outsourcing of heavy maintenance on its Airbus aircraft.
“These are the same tactics that were used by Frank Lorenzo to destroy Eastern Airlines,†said IAM International President R. Thomas Buffenbarger. “If we allow US Airways to subcontract out work that has been contractually performed by IAM-represented members for 46 years, it will have a ripple effect throughout the industry in all classifications.â€
“Our members have repeatedly sacrificed to avoid the liquidation of US
Airways,†said IAM General Vice President Robert Roach, Jr. “For the airline to cast-off the employees that recently rescued the carrier and the critical jobs they perform is criminal. If CEO David Siegel wants to go to war with his employees, then it is war he will get.â€
The resolution, passed at the TTD’s Executive Committee meeting in Washington, DC, underscores individual support commitments received from affiliated Unions at US Airways, including IAM District 141, Air Line Pilots Association, Association of Flight Attendants, Communication Workers of America and Transport Workers Union.
“I call upon US Airways to honor its contract with it workers, and reverse what would be yet another example of harmful and outrageous corporate conduct,†said AFL-CIO President John Sweeney. “It is time for US Airways to straighten up and fly right and maintain both high standards of safety and its contract with its workers.â€
“The IAM is prepared to take whatever legal measures are necessary to protect our work,†said Buffenbarger. “As a major dispute, this may include, but is not limited to, seeking a Temporary Restraining Order, injunctive relief, or withdrawing our services, as provided by law. The support of the TTD and their affiliate Unions is welcomed and greatly appreciated.â€
The TTD’s resolution is available on the IAM web site at www.goiam.org.