PilotAction US Airways & American Airlines Trial & Other News Update

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PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines #5: August 29, 2013

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Judge to Consider Date for Airline-Antitrust Trial - AMR's Stay in Bankruptcy Is Tied to Trial's Outcome


CHICAGO (WSJ.com) - A federal judge will consider on Friday one of the most contentious issues so far in the Justice Department's challenge to the merger between American Airlines parent AMR Corp. and US Airways Group Inc. the antitrust trial's start date.

The parties have asked U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly to set the timing during a scheduling conference, a decision that is under exceptional scrutiny because AMR's stay in bankruptcy is tied to the trial's outcome.

If Judge Kollar-Kotelly begins the trial around Nov. 12, as the airlines have requested, they will almost certainly face off against the government in court. But if the judge sides with the government, which has requested the trial start March 3, AMR will have to decide whether to stay mired in bankruptcy for several more months with no guarantee the deal will succeed, or to pursue a stand-alone plan. A delay to next year would also mean the airlines no longer would be bound by hefty breakup fees in their merger agreement that expire in December.

On Thursday, the judge overseeing AMR's bankruptcy again delayed a ruling on its reorganization plan to merge with US Airways. The judge said he is leaning toward confirming the plan but wanted to hear more from AMR and its creditors on how the Justice Department's suit affects the bankruptcy. He scheduled the next hearing for Sept. 12.

AMR and US Airways have stood by the deal, but in a court filing this week they said that starting the antitrust trial in 2014 would jeopardize the merger by casting months of uncertainty over it. The airlines said that, for example, the delay would impede their negotiations for important corporate contracts and limit AMR's ability to finance new aircraft. And an extended wait could also be costly: AMR said that if the case wasn't tried until April or May, it would incur an additional $65 million to $75 million in bankruptcy-related fees.

The government's proposed start date "presents a significant risk that the schedule rather than the merits will determine the future of the planned transaction," they said. "Two independent companies can be asked to stay in limbo for only so long before they need to make independent plans."

An AMR spokesman said that if the trial is scheduled for 2014, the airlines would still plan to defend the merger in court, but the uncertainty could allow an outside event, such as a spike in oil prices, to cause the airlines to later abandon the deal.

AMR's creditors also said in a court filing that the delay would threaten the merger. The deal is predicated on complex intercreditor agreements and "prolonged uncertainty…could undermine these compromises and instead precipitate factiousness and infighting," they said.

The Justice Department says it needs time to prepare its case arguing that the merger would hurt airline competition and "likely result in hundreds of millions of dollars in harm to consumers annually." The government said there should be no urgency to start the trial because AMR and US Airways are doing well financially. AMR reported that it earned $292 million in July.

The airlines, which say the merger would benefit consumers, said the government has had more than 16 months to investigate the deal. The government said that time wasn't used to prepare for trial.

The parties said this week that they remain open to a settlement. However, the government said it had not yet received a proposal "that addresses the competitive harms posed by the merger," while the airlines said that they have already tried to settle and that "there ought to be a realistic possibility of a settlement."

The merger deal requires AMR to pay $135 million if it leaves the deal before a deadline in mid-December. It says US Airways would have to pay a breakup fee of $55 million. Each also faces a $195 million fee if they knowingly breach the merger terms. To extend the merger agreement past that deadline, both airlines must agree.


The Deal: Deal: Airline Merger Judge Wants Details

In an order issued Thursday, Kollar-Kotelly appeared to be favoring a trial date on the earlier side. She called on the parties to "immediately begin serving written discovery to the extent possible."

See Story: http://www.thestreet.com/story/12022...o&cm_ven=YAHOO


US Airways-American Merger Not Dead

See Story: http://wallstcheatsheet.com/stocks/u...p.html/?ref=YF
 
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[sub]PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines #1: August 30, 2013

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APFA Update: August 29, 2013


Meeting with Washington, D.C. Attorney General

A meeting has been scheduled for union representatives to discuss the antitrust case with the Office of the Attorney General for the District of Columbia on Tuesday, September 3.

Help us show the DC AG that his actions may hurt local families. Sign the following letter by emailing your name and base information to [email protected]. As we finalize appointments with the remaining Attorneys General, member participation will continue to be at the forefront of APFA's plan of action.

Dear Attorney General Irvin Nathan,

On behalf of the hundreds of thousands of Americans whose livelihoods depend on the success of American Airlines and US Airways, we the undersigned respectfully request that you withdraw the antitrust suit intended to block the merger of those two companies.

We know firsthand that, contrary to the complaint you filed in federal court last month, our companies are not capable of competing in the current market on their own. The recent dramatic increase to the size and scale of Delta and United has put our carriers at an insurmountable competitive disadvantage. As you know, the dominance of Delta and United is the result of recent megamergers.

Thousands of DC-area workers, including the undersigned, depend on the stability and competitiveness of American and US Airways to make ends meet. You lawsuit stands between these workers and dependable jobs with decent wages. Please do not continue down this destructive path. Withdraw your suit and the new American Airlines to compete.

Sincerely,

[YOUR NAME]


8,000 TWU MEMBERS SEND DOJ STRONG MESSAGE: August 29, 2013

Petitions Delivered in New York, Miami, Chicago, Dallas, Tulsa, and Los Angeles

The 8,000 TWU members who signed our DOJ petition had their voices heard loud and clear today. TWU Locals across the nation are delivering petitions to DOJ offices, telling Attorney General Holder to stop attempting to block the American Airlines-US Airways merger.

Following up on our petitions, local presidents have been contacting the Obama Administration’s Labor Liaison, seeking a meeting with Attorney General Holder and urging an end to the government intervention.

American Airlines, US Airways and the DOJ will be in court on Friday, to discuss the schedule for a trial.


APFA Hotline Update (APFA President Laura Glading on Bloomberg and CNN): August 29, 2013

Tune in to Bloomberg TV "Market Matters" on Friday morning at 11:00 a.m. Eastern where Laura Glading will be the appearing Live guest in the New York studio along with Neil Roghair, APA Vice President, via satellite.

On Labor Day, Monday, September 2, barring any unforeseen events that may impact the interview schedule, Laura is set to appear Live on CNN at 4:00 p.m. Eastern on "The Lead" with Jake Tapper.

To view the latest news and court filings on the AA-US Airways merger click here.

To receive the most up-to-date information about the AA Bankruptcy, US Airways/AA Merger, and DOJ Anti-trust Lawsuit, subscribe to our list.

AmericanAirlines + US Airways
"On Our Way"


Leslie Mayo
APFA National Communications Coordinator
[/sub]
 
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PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines #2: August 30, 2013

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[background=transparent]Nov. 25 trial set for American Airlines-US Airways merger

Judge sides largely with American Airlines and US Airways in scheduling the 10-day trial

See Story: http://www.usatoday....rtment/2742397/


American, US Airways lawyers get what they want in court — an early trial date; now for the hard part, winning (Interview with American and US Airways' attorneys)

“What the government needs to do here is show that the merger is going to be anti-competitive. Whether or not American can stand on its own with or without a merger is not the issue here,” said John Majoras, counsel for American Airlines.

The companies said they expect to call about six witnesses — including executives from their companies and at least one executive at a business that is a potential customer of the American, should the merger go through. It also has hired two antitrust economists who have been working for months on the case, and who will testify before Kollar-Kotelly.

See Story: http://aviationblog....t-winning.html/


Timing of antitrust trial to favor airlines, but U.S. may come prepared

The merger is American’s plan to exit from Chapter 11 bankruptcy, and Judge Sean Lane indicated Thursday that he’s inclined to approve it on Sept. 12, but he wants to hear more about the airlines’ response to the government’s case.

"She will encourage them to try to settle it, if possible," said Carl Tobias a law professor at the University of Richmond.

See Story: http://www.kansascit...al-appears.html


Judge: Airline-merger trial to start in November

A bankruptcy judge in New York signaled Thursday that he’s leaning toward approving American’s emergence from bankruptcy protection but wanted more time to reflect. Judge Sean H. Lane could sign off on the restructuring plan at the next hearing on Sept. 12 or in a written decision earlier.

See Story: http://www.boston.co....SRL/story.html


Countdown begins to U.S. airline merger trial in November

It was surprising that the Justice Department wanted a lengthy period before trial, because its suit implied it had a slam-dunk case, George Hamlin, president of Hamlin Transportation Consulting, in Fairfax, Virginia. "They had the element of surprise. The airlines weren't expecting this. Why wouldn't you want to do it sooner rather than later?"

See Story: http://www.reuters.c....N0GV0Q20130830


AMR, US Airways Win Fast-Track Date in U.S. Antitrust Trial

Rich Parker, the US Airways lawyer, said today that the airlines are still interested in having settlement talks with the Justice Department.

“We put something on that table before we got sued and the government responded with a complaint not with a counteroffer,” he said.


See Story: http://www.businessw....ntitrust-trial[/background]



[background=transparent]Bankruptcy judge puts off decision on AMR reorganization plan

Bond analyst Vicki Bryan of Gimme Credit said she believes that a settlement may occur before a trial and would likely include the divestiture of certain routes and landing slots to appease government concerns.

“Despite all the grandstanding, we remain skeptical that Justice actually can win its case in court with persuasive evidence that the merger is anticompetitive and harmful to consumers,” Bryan wrote in a research note issued Thursday.

“This would explain Justice’s stall tactics now and set the stage for it to snag a huge political ‘win’ with an out-of-court settlement later by claiming success in bringing the greedy airlines into tow via tough negotiations to get concessions it most likely could have achieved already some months ago with logical additions and subtractions to the proposed combined network and services.”

See Story: http://www.star-tele....-decision.html


American, US Airways offered to cede slots in Washington before DOJ filed lawsuit

See Story: http://www.star-tele....ffered-to.html


Why American and US Airways Need a November Trial Date

See Story: http://www.thestreet....rial-date.html


Analysts say November trial date a "win" for the airlines

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]FORTH WORTH (Star-Telegram) - A couple of industry analysts have called the November 25 anti-trust trial date for American Airlines and US Airways a "win" for the carriers.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]Wolfe Research analyst Hunter Keay said he believes there is a 75 percent likelihood that the merger between the two airlines will occur as the Department of Justice's anti-trust complaint is "weak."[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]"We also think DOJ relies too heavily on anecdotal and vignette-driven arguments, as was the case in Oracle/PeopleSoft, which DOJ lost in embarrassing fashion," Keay wrote in a research report sent to investors on Friday.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]Bond analyst Vicki Bryan at Gimme Credit applauded the federal judge's decision to set a November trial date instead of agreeing with the government's request for a March trial.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]"Kudos to the judge -- this whole thing has dragged out more than long enough," Bryan said in a research note. "The trial is expected to last 10 days, which could mean a decision by yearend."[/background]


AA CEO Tom Horton and US Airways CEO Doug Parker Joint Message to Employees: August 30, 2013

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]Dear Fellow Employees:[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]We just heard that the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia set a trial date of Nov. 25, 2013, in connection with the lawsuit filed by the Department of Justice (DOJ).[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]We are pleased the Court has set a schedule that will enable us to resolve this litigation in a reasonable timeframe. Given the significant benefits this merger will deliver to consumers, employees and other stakeholders, and that the creation of the new American Airlines will provide much-needed competition, our duty remains clear: We are more committed than ever to bringing our airlines together and look forward to making our case for the new American in court.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]The people of American Airlines and US Airways simply want the opportunity to compete together for customers and to enhance competition with the largest airlines in the U.S. – United, Delta and Southwest – and a number of fast-growing low-cost carriers.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]We continue to be invigorated by the outpouring of support we have received from all of you in the past few weeks. It’s clear that you share our conviction that the new American is about growth and bringing new choices to the customers we serve. We will have more information soon about ways that all of you can participate in actively showing your support for the merger. In the meantime, let’s continue to do what we do best: running great airlines and providing the outstanding service our customers have come to expect from us.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]Thank you for your continued hard work and dedication and all that you will be doing this weekend to keep our operations running smoothly over a busy holiday. We look forward to the day when we will stand together as one airline to deliver the compelling benefits of the new American.[/background]


USAPA President's Message: August 30, 2013

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]Fellow Pilots,[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]We received good news today about the proposed merger between US Airways and American Airlines.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]At a hearing in Washington, D.C., U.S. District Court Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly set a November 25 trial date for the Department of Justice’s lawsuit against the merger. The Judge rejected the DOJ’s request to delay the trial until next year. We expect the trial to last for approximately 10 days.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]I was at the hearing today with USAPA’s General Counsel, Brian O’Dwyer. We met with APA and APA’s General Counsel to make sure our two unions continue to work together during this period, keeping the momentum going for merging our two pilot groups. We will also continue meeting with the Company, ironing out details of the post-POR transitions to the New American. Those discussions will be operating under the assumption this merger will come to fruition by year's end.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]We will keep you updated on further developments on this matter as they occur.[/background]



APA Update: August 30, 2013

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]U.S. District Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly in Washington heard from both sides today on their discovery and trial needs in the DOJ antitrust lawsuit. After careful consideration, she has scheduled the trial to begin Nov. 25 and continue to conclusion every weekday except Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after Thanksgiving. This early trial date will allow for an expeditious decision as to whether the merger can clear the final hurdle and the corporation can exit bankruptcy without further delay.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]Counsel for the carriers and DOJ estimate the trial will take 10–12 court days. While APA is not directly involved in the trial preparation, as a "friend of the court" and supporter of the merger, we are confident the merits of the case will be resolved in our favor and the merger between the two carriers will be allowed to move forward.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]As communicated in yesterday's News Digest, bankruptcy Judge Sean Lane heard oral arguments from those in favor of prompt confirmation of the Plan of Reorganization and from one private class-action lawyer wanting a delay in the approval of the merger. Judge Lane took the matter under advisement and has scheduled the next hearing for Sept. 12. Judge Lane also said on the record that he found the arguments in favor "persuasive." In that regard, we remain hopeful he will issue his order confirming the plan to exit bankruptcy sometime in September.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]We encourage all pilots to join the [/background]whitehouse.gov petition[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)] and our [/background]email campaign[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)] in those states whose attorneys general are involved in the DOJ's litigation. And whether you’re spending the day in the cockpit or with family and friends, please accept my sincere wishes for a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend.[/background]


Transport Workers Union Air Transport Division Director Gary Drummond: August 30, 2013

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]Members and leaders of the Transport Workers Union employed at both American Airlines and US Airways are pleased that Judge Kollar-Kotelly has decided to hear arguments in the American Airlines/US Airways merger suit on November 25, 2013.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]A new American Airlines composed of US Airways and the current American will provide greater competition with Delta and United as well as with foreign airlines. The new American will certainly offer travelers more options and better service.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]TWU members are concerned about job security and the future of the new American Airlines that has been jeopardized as a result of the Department of Justice’s interference in the merger process. We just need a fair chance to compete.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]We thank Judge Kollar-Kotelly for speeding this process along.[/background]


Association of Flight Attendants President Roger Homlin: August 30, 2013

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]“US Airways Flight Attendants are ready to make the most out of the opportunities available through the creation of the world’s largest airline, which will provide real competition for Delta and United and a positive outlook for workers. Our union supported the motion for a November trial date because both US Airways and American Airlines front line workers deserve to know what our future holds[/background]
[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)].[/background]
[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]“We applaud today’s court decision for a November 25 trial start date and we are optimistic that the judge will agree that the benefits of this merger, for both workers and consumers alike, will help to create a stronger aviation system.”[/background]


APFA[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)] [/background]Hotline (DOJ Lawsuit): August 30, 2013

A-US Airways Antitrust Lawsuit Court Date Set for November 25, 2013

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]APFA is happy to report that the judge assigned to the DOJ vs AA-US Airways merger lawsuit, Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly, set a trial date for November 25, 2013. [/background]Read the text of Judge Kollar-Kotelly's order here[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)].[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]Meanwhile in bankruptcy court, APFA is hopeful that Judge Sean Lane will confirm the AA Plan of Reorganization ("POR") on the next scheduled trial date in his court set for September 12th.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]APFA is pleased with the progress related to the AA-US lawsuit preparation and scheduling. The antitrust trial will be completed in mid-December. It is possible that a decision will be rendered by the judge prior to the end of the year or soon thereafter.[/background]

[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)]We will continue to keep the membership apprised of all events surrounding the merger as they occur. For up-to-date merger/DOJ lawsuit information add your name to our [/background]mailing list here[background=rgb(250, 250, 250)].[/background][/background]
 
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APFA Labor Day Capwiz Action - Contact Congress In Support of the AA/US Merger - August 31, 2013

Labor Day marks an important day for all hard-working Americans. And for those in the aviation industry, every day is Labor Day.

As airline employees, we have suffered through years of turbulence: bankruptcies, layoffs, and significant cuts in salaries and benefits. Our sacrifices have been tremendous over the past decade. No one wants the success of American Airlines and US Airways more than the employees. We want our companies to be able to compete for the flying public’s business, but they cannot do that individually. In fact, employees, financial analysts, management, the American Airlines creditors, and shareholders from both companies all agree that a merger is the only path to success.

Now, the Department of Justice and attorneys general from six states and the District of Columbia have filed a lawsuit to try to stop the merger and what is good for both workers and passengers. Tell them they got it wrong by contacting your representatives in Washington. Ask them to support the merger through APFA's online CapWiz tool.

Every letter that is sent via this platform is logged into the Senators' or Congressperson's database. The more messages we generate, the more notice your Representatives will take.

After you have completed this action, please spread the word via the "share option" contained within the Capwiz platform.


Thank you for your participation,

APFA Communications
 
Well, you can all write your Congressman all you want, but then ask yourself...how much money have the individual flight attendants donated to their Congressmen's re-election campaigns? My guess is practically nothing. Practically nothing gets practically zero attention from a member of Congress. SHOW HIM/HER THE MONEY. That and only that gets their attention.
 
Well, you can all write your Congressman all you want, but then ask yourself...how much money have the individual flight attendants donated to their Congressmen's re-election campaigns? My guess is practically nothing. Practically nothing gets practically zero attention from a member of Congress. SHOW HIM/HER THE MONEY. That and only that gets their attention.

Writing Congress over the merger is simply a huge waste of time, paper and/or bandwidth. The DOJ does not answer to Congress. In other times, maybe the DOJ might actually be influenced by Congressional consensus, but this Congress is way too divided to be effective in that regard. Even if, in our wildest dreams, both houses passed a bill to specifically authorize this merger, Obama would simply veto it.

Pressure on the White House MIGHT have some effect, but Obama has already distanced himself from this issue (even though he is ultimately responsible for his DOJ and its actions.)
 
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PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines: September 1, 2013

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Antitrust trial timing may favour merger


See Story:
http://au.finance.yahoo.com/news/ant...004240761.html


American, US Airways also fighting their own image, histories in antitrust case

See Story: http://www.dallasnews.com/business/a...trust-case.ece


American Airlines and US Air Merger Will Be Approved: Najarian

See Story: http://finance.yahoo.com/blogs/break...144945869.html


AMR, US Airways Fast-Track Merger Trial May Mean Year-End Ruling

“If she sticks to this schedule, I would expect a decision by year-end,” said Seth Bloom, founder of Bloom Strategic Counsel PLLC and former general counsel of the Senate Antitrust Subcommittee, adding that the judge is likely to rule quickly. “It makes abandonment of the deal less likely.”

Vicki Bryan, an analyst at Gimme Credit LLC in New York, predicted in a research note following yesterday’s hearing that the case may not go to trial “since it can and should be resolved with a negotiated settlement.” If there is a trial, “we expect the airlines to prevail,” Bryan wrote.

AMR’s $460 million of 6.25 percent convertible notes due in October 2014 rose 0.625 cent to 100.875 cents on the dollar, according to Trace, the bond-price reporting service of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. They traded at 116.125 cents on the dollar on Aug. 9.

See Story: http://www.businessweek.com/news/201...trust-trial#p1


Should 'Accounting Magic' Kill the American-US Airways Deal?

See Story:
http://seekingalpha.com/article/1667...l?source=yahoo


Haha, DoJ: American-US Airways Get November Trial

See Story: http://wallstcheatsheet.com/stocks/h...l.html/?ref=YF
 
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  • #38
PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines: September 2, 2013

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Robert Crandall on the merger: “I don’t get this notion that either consumers or the government can or should ‘trust’ that companies will compete away profits”

“Animal spirits being what they are, three big tough guys will rough each other up more frequently than only two big tough guys. That’s the argument for the merger in its simplest form – and I think it is right.”

See Story: http://aviationblog.dallasnews.com/2013/09/robert-crandall-on-the-merger-i-dont-get-this-notion-that-either-consumers-or-the-government-can-or-should-trust-that-companies-will-compete-away-profits-even-if-competition-does-not.html/


American/US Airways Trial Gets Nov. 25 Start Date

The DOJ’s concerns appear to center around upholding competition at Ronald Reagan Washington-National Airport, but DOJ has also raised broader issues around competition in one-stop markets and the US Airways Advantage Fares scheme of discount prices.

See Story: http://www.aviationweek.com/Article.aspx?id=/article-xml/awx_08_30_2013_p0-611966.xml&p=1


USAPA President’s Labor Day Message: September 2, 2013

Fellow Pilots:

Today we celebrate Labor Day, our only national holiday recognizing the important contributions that workers make to our country. It was signed into law in 1894 by President Grover Cleveland, following the deaths of striking railroad workers at the hands of the U.S. military and U.S. Marshals.

Much has happened since that first Labor Day. The lives of American workers have improved greatly due largely to the efforts of the labor movement. We know well that workers are more successful when they collaborate together as a union, advocating for a common cause.

However, the road toward unity has not been an easy one for labor. We were reminded of that just last week, when we celebrated the 50[sup]th[/sup] anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s powerful “I Have a Dream” speech. It was delivered at the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington for jobs and freedom in 1963. The march was organized by civil rights advocates, promoted by all religious denominations and funded primarily by labor unions. This historic event continues to serve as a reminder of what can be accomplished with cooperation and resolve.

As we celebrate the end of summer with our co-workers, family and friends, please take a moment to reflect on what we have achieved and consider what we can accomplish by continuing to work together. As Dr. King professed in life and in union, “We must learn to live together as brothers, or perish together as fools.”

Regards,

Gary Hummel


APFA Update (Thank You): September 2, 2013

Thank you.

Thank you for standing up and making yourselves heard. And thank you for your unrelenting tenacity.

We've come too far and worked too hard to allow this merger to slip away. And thanks to your continued support, it won't.

APFA has been leading the way throughout AA's bankruptcy. Our work group has been especially integral in pushing for this merger. Flight Attendants know better than anyone the downtrodden state American was in leading up to its Chapter 11 filing. We bid farewell to some of our regular passengers as they left for Delta and United while we watched our route structure shrink. Flight Attendants can speak with authority about the need for American to merge in order for our company to be competitive - and we all need to continue talking about it.

Last year, during the darkest days of bankruptcy, APFA examined its options, made a decision, established a strategy, and successfully helped execute a merger with US Airways. Flight Attendants stood shoulder to shoulder to make that happen. Now we have to finish the job. Keep up the pressure. Make some noise. Demand that American Airlines be allowed to compete.

As we celebrate Labor Day, let's all take a moment to think about the new world of management/labor relations we are living in. Organized labor continues to shrink. With time and hard work we can turn that around, but labor groups need to be creative, nimble, savvy and unified. What APFA has done in this bankruptcy is extraordinary. We pulled up a chair, took a seat at the table and by acting responsibly - and globally - we protected our careers by changing the direction of our Company. And we are almost there.

In the weeks between now and the antitrust trial on November 25th, APFA is going to do everything possible to make the public aware of the realities we face. Watch these hotlines for ways to join the effort.

In Unity,

Laura Glading
APFA President
 
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[background=#fff]PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines: September 3, 2013


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What Chance Does American Airlines Group Have?

See Story: http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2013/08/30/what-chance-does-american-airlines-group-have.aspx


Schnurman: Airline workers looking to strike back, gently

See Story: http://www.dallasnews.com/business/columnists/mitchell-schnurman/20130902-airline-workers-looking-to-strike-back-gently.ece


American and US Airways Get Their Day in Court With a Side of Turkey and Stuffing

See Story: http://crankyflier.com/2013/09/03/american-and-us-airways-get-their-day-in-court-with-a-side-of-turkey-and-stuffing/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter


How Budget Cuts are Helping the AMR-US Airways Merger

Attorney General Eric Holder stated in April that the department was likely to run out of options by the beginning of FY14 -- which starts Oct. 1 -- forcing employee furloughs. Attorneys at the DOJ are thus under considerable pressure due to short-staffing, and furloughs could soon worsen this problem. To ease the staffing burden, the DOJ has gone so far as to recruit "special attorneys" for one-year unpaid positions, according to a ProPublica report.

See Story: http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2013/09/03/how-budget-cuts-are-helping-the-amr-us-airways-mer.aspx


JetBlue not interested in merger, acquisition –CEO

US Airways has 55 percent of takeoff and landing slots at Reagan National, the Justice Department stated in its complaint. If the merger goes through, the combined American-US Airways would control 69 percent of slots at that airport, the Justice lawsuit said.

"US Airways is already in the No. 1 position at our nation's capital," Barger told the Reuters summit. "We actually think that they should remain at the level that they're at."

See Story: http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/09/03/aerospace-defense-jetblue-idUSL2N0GZ04K20130903?feedType=RSS&feedName=industrialsSector&rpc=43


American Airlines bankruptcy case exceeds 10,000 documents

See Story: http://aviationblog.dallasnews.com/2013/09/american-airlines-bankruptcy-case-exceeds-10000-documents.html/


American Airlines Stock Soars on Settlement Talks, Trial Date

See Story: http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/blog/morning-edition/2013/09/american-airlines-stock-soars-on.html


Sign The Petition

See Story: http://public.alliedpilots.org/apa/default.aspx


CLT Observer OpEd: The US Airways-American merger helps 70,000 workers

By Gary Hummel and Roger Holmin
Cbarlotte Observer


Labor Day is a time of reflection for the nation’s union members. We celebrate the labor movement’s achievements for all workers and renew our fight for workplace protections and wages and benefits to support our families. As representatives of more than 70,000 American Airlines and US Airways employees, we look to the pending merger of our two airlines as an outstanding example of how much workers, acting together, can accomplish in today’s economic environment.

All of our members have been hurt by a turbulent aviation industry in recent years. Labor and airline shareholders bore the brunt of the economic losses of the past decade. American Airlines entered bankruptcy in late 2011, and the stakes were incredibly high. American unions are some of the largest creditors in the bankruptcy, and we also had to think about the best long-term option for job security for more than 50,000 American Airlines union members.

To that end we hired top-tier financial and legal advisors, reviewed American’s financial and operational prospects from every possible angle and determined that a merger with US Airways was the path that had to be taken. It was the only option that would allow American to compete effectively against carriers that had substantially larger networks – networks that were the product of the government-approved mergers of Delta and Northwest, United and Continental, and Southwest and Air Tran. We understood that if American left bankruptcy as a stand-alone carrier, inevitably it along with tens of thousands of jobs would not survive.

Likewise, the unions at US Airways have sacrificed tremendously over the last decade, having gone through two bankruptcies’ and given back billions of dollars in concessions in the form of pay, retirement and work rule changes just to survive. Labor at US Airways recognized the significant benefits of the merger. That is why our members have shown – and continue to show – unprecedented support for this combination.

Unfortunately, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has filed a lawsuit seeking to stop exactly what is good for both workers and passengers.

This merger is about growth. By combining our complementary route networks, we are creating significant consumer benefits through more choices and better service. Consumers will have a new alternative and a more competitive airline to take on the country’s largest air carriers and a number of fast-growing low-cost carriers, including Virgin America, JetBlue, Spirit, and Allegiant. In this global airline industry the merger will also mean the new American Airlines will be better positioned to earn the business of consumers at home and abroad in the face of stiff competition from international carriers.

As labor, we have never lost sight of the fact that the security of our jobs depends on the success of our company, and that success depends on the public filling our planes. That is why we have so vigorously embraced the merger – it is the only solution that serves the interests of all three constituencies; employees, shareholders and passengers.

By moving to block this merger, the DOJ wants to maintain the status quo, leaving consumers with limited choices and US Airways and American with a severe disadvantage in attracting more customers.

Yet with the previous mergers, the DOJ was not bound by the status quo; instead it reconfigured the industry. All that the 70,000 employees of American and US Airways ask is that we be given comparable footing on the competitive landscape the government created. Put simply, we just want the same opportunity to compete for the more than 736 million passengers that fly in the U.S. each year.

We have supported the merger of American Airlines and US Airways because it is the best outcome for our members and consumers. We are not about to quit now. As we reflect on this Labor Day weekend, our unified voices call on the DOJ to let us compete as the New American Airlines so we can provide consumers the choices and services they want. Let the merger move forward so that 70,000 workers can enjoy the job security that only an effective competitor can offer.

The following union officials signed on to this column: Laura Glading, Association of Professional Flight Attendants; Roger Holmin, Association of Flight Attendants; Gary Hummel, President, US Airline Pilots Association; Garry Drummond, Transport Workers Union of America; Bill Gray, Transport Workers Union of America; Velvet Hawthorne, Communications Workers of America.


APA President’s Labor Day Message: September 2, 2013

Fellow pilots:

This Labor Day, we should pause to pay tribute to those early men and women who struggled to breathe life into the rights of the working-class Americans. I know many of you are spending the day on the job making possible the 24/7 global enterprise known as American Airlines. On behalf of my fellow APA national officers, I'd like to express my sincere appreciation for your dedication and professionalism. Among the myriad jobs performed by the working men and women of our nation, flying the line — being entrusted with the most precious cargo there is — most certainly merits a heartfelt thank you.

This year, Labor Day arrives amidst a challenge American Airlines, US Airways and APA did not expect: the DOJ antitrust lawsuit. The lawsuit has adversely affected tens of thousands of hard-working men and women at American Airlines and US Airways and must be resolved sooner rather than later. As a result of the lawsuit, American Airlines now finds itself effectively in limbo. Our pilots and other rank-and-file employees also face an uncertain future, with pending contractual improvements cast into doubt. But as always, I know we'll continue to do our jobs as expertly as we are able. The folks riding in the back of the airplane are counting on that.

I hope you and your family have a safe Labor Day. Take a moment to reflect on the fact that you are both a professional aviator and a trade union member, discuss what the true meaning of Labor Day is with your family and reflect on the fact that we have worked hard in our profession and that we are proud of our legacy as American Airlines pilots. I join my fellow national officers, board of directors and committee members in promising we will do the best we can to continue to protect and defend your rights as labor.

In unity,

Keith Wilson
APA President



USAPA DCA Domicile Update: September 2, 2013-09-03

Many of you have called, emailed and/or spoken in the crew room with us, having valid questions and concerns regarding the unexpected recent actions by the DOJ threatening our merger with American Airlines. As you’re probably aware, the BPR has had two informational conference calls with our Officers, Attorneys and key Committee Chairmen since the announcement by the DOJ.

We have been kept abreast of the situation and discussed our concerns and options going forward. While we don’t speak for the entire Board, we can tell you that in this instance we are certain all eleven representatives, as well as the rest of your union leadership, supports the merger. USAPA recently joined other labor groups from both US Airways and American in a combined statement requesting that the DOJ court date be scheduled in an expedited manner. As you’re also probably already aware, on August 30, Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly announced that the U.S. District Court would hear the case beginning on November 25, which is anticipated to last up to ten days or more. This earlier date is what the two airlines were hoping for and what we agreed to help pursue.

Some of you have also asked why USAPA hasn’t made an official press statement in support of the merger, as other labor groups have done. While we discussed this option during our informational calls, we were unable to reach a consensus on the content of that message. We believe that our support of the merger has already been declared with the Board’s UNANIMOUS vote in favor of the MOU last January, as well as the ratification of the same document by over 76% of our pilots in February. No changes have been made to the MOU since then. We represent your majority views and best interests and you, the pilots of USAPA have sent the message to this Board and your Officers that you want this merger to proceed. To reiterate, nothing has changed in the MOU, nor has anything changed in our resolve to support your collective intent.

It is necessary that you remain informed and read the legal filings on the DOJ case. They can be found in the Legal Library on the USAPA website. It is also important that your voices be heard if you want a successful AA/US merger. We have included a link to help ease this process as well as a link to sign a White House Petition to ask President Obama to urge the Attorney General to withdraw the DOJ complaint.

Click here to write your Senators and Congressmen
Click here for the White House Petition

Please take notice of the activities the USAPA Government Affairs Committee recently published outlining an upcoming media and lobbying event in Washington , D.C. , including the following:

• A “Fly In and Lobby Day” is being planned for Tuesday, September 17, and Wednesday, September 18. This event will focus on continuing the push to solicit support from the Congressional delegations that are pivotal to the discussion of the merits of the merger. Along with the Allied Pilots Association, our GAC members have offered to assist on the Hill conducting the scores of meetings that the group is planning.
• It was mentioned that AMR will likely fly a couple of aircraft to Washington with employees from DFW for this event and they will join US Airways employees.
• The event will also include a mid-day media and employee rally at the Capitol, along with the disbursement of dozens of delegations to visit Congressional Offices.
• The Company is also planning to roll out several other ways for employees to be supportive of the merger effort. This program will be announced in the next few days. The slogan going forward will be “Let Us Compete Together” and will be accompanied with several media and op-ed pieces.

USAPA Government Affairs has advised us they will get the details of this two day event to us as soon as possible.

PLAN B

As we mentioned above, both of us and the rest of the Board, as well as the Officers are doing our utmost to represent your best interests. While we all agree that the quickest road to a new contract and better pay and working conditions will be achieved through a successful merger, we still have to plan for what happens should the DOJ prevail and the merger fall through. We agree with our reps in PHL and CLT questioning where we will be if the merger fails and with their approval, have copied and italicized the following from their joint update:

”If this merger fails, we are essentially back at square one with Section 6 negotiations before the NMB, and a management who thrives on delay tactics and stalling the negotiating process. The Company will have effectively delayed the Section 6 negotiations for an additional two years, for a total of more than six years, and we will continue to receive substandard wages and benefits. This process will continue for as long as the NMB allows US Airways management to stonewall the Railway Labor Act process in stand-alone, mediated negotiations. “

And,

“No US Airways pilot needs to be reminded that we have suffered under bankruptcy wages and work rules and without a raise for almost ten years. In fact, the recent delay can be directly attributed to US Airways Management (with the assistance of the NMB), who focused their attention on negotiating with the APA on our behalf and what was to be a pending merger. Since April 18, 2012, USAPA has spent most of its time and efforts supporting the proposed merger…"

Therefore, we need to work on our “plan B” to be prepared for action if the merger does not occur. We will be singularly focused on using all available assets towards negotiating an industry standard contract with Management as a stand-alone carrier. Your union has already demonstrated a willingness to work with management to create a successful merged airline. The Company has also proven that they have the capacity and willingness to negotiate in an expedited manner when they need to, as we witnessed them negotiate a complete agreement with APA in a matter of weeks. Our Management has a pilot group and employees second to none, who are more than capable of providing a safe and exceptional product to our passengers.
We need to be compensated appropriately and carry the respect of our management for the professional product that we deliver 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

We will be meeting with the rest of the BPR, our Officers, Attorneys and other members of our union’s leadership in Charlotte at our 3rd Quarter meeting on September 26th and 27th. We anticipate that aside from being briefed on current events regarding the merger litigation, as well as the case in Judge Silver’s court in Phoenix , we will spend a significant amount of time discussing the next steps should the merger fail.

In closing, we hope that you are able to enjoy the Labor Day holiday with your family and friends, or with your fellow crew members if you’re on the road. Let’s not forget the significance of this

Labor Day as it pertains to our profession. Stay focused and fly safe.

Fraternally,

Joe Stein
DCA Chairman


Pete Dugstad
DCA Vice Chairman
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PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines: September 4, 2013

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Burgess to AG Eric Holder: Blocking airline merger is unfair and wrong on the law

See Story: http://aviationblog....n-the-law.html/


American Airlines adds flight

See Story: http://www.timesonli...eaa7d557bf.html


DOJ, airlines propose pre-trial deadlines

See Story: http://aviationblog....deadlines.html/


American Airlines makes it easy to write government and oppose lawsuit

See Story: http://aviationblog....e-lawsuit.html/


Insights on Block and Options Trading Activity for US Airways Group

See Story: http://www.avafin.co...es/1025950.html


Laura Glading, president of the Association of Professional Flight Attendants, and Neil Roghair, vice president of the Allied Pilots Association, talk about their unions' support for the proposed merger of AMR Corp's American Airlines and US Airways Group Inc. They speak with Erik Schatzker and Deirdre Bolton on Bloomberg Television's "Market Makers."

See Story: http://www.bloomberg...iSpz6fjrrA.html


APA INFORMATION HOTLINE: September 3, 2013

This is APA Communications Director Gregg Overman with the APA Information Hotline for Tuesday, Sept. 3.

DCA FLY-IN LOBBY DAY AND RALLY: On Sept. 17 and 18, employees from American Airlines and US Airways including labor, non-represented employees and some management will converge on Capitol Hill for a lobby day and rally in support of the merger. Employees of both carriers will make scheduled visits to their respective House and Senate members regarding the Justice Department lawsuit. American Airlines and US Airways are in the planning stages on transportation logistics, so please stay tuned for more information.

The lobby day and rally will provide an opportunity to share your views on the merger with your elected representatives. Specific flight information and lodging arrangements are pending, but you can plan to depart the morning of the 17th and return the evening of the 18th. Sign-up details and other information will be provided soon.

APA ON BLOOMBERG TELEVISION: APA Vice President First Officer Neil Roghair and Association of Professional Flight Attendants President Laura Glading were interviewed on Bloomberg Television's "Market Makers" on Aug. 30 regarding the Justice Department lawsuit. As you'll see, both union leaders do an excellent job of presenting the case for permitting the American Airlines–US Airways merger to proceed.

9/11 OBSERVANCES: During the next few days, APA will provide details of 9/11 observances planned in key U.S. cities. The APA leadership will be participating in observances in various locations and we encourage you to do the same in your community or wherever else you are on the 11th.

NEW FLIGHTLINE EDITION POSTED ONLINE: The latest edition of Flightline has been posted to alliedpilots.org. As you'll see, we have optimized the online edition for iPad viewing. You'll find articles on a variety of timely topics, including the fatigue risk management system, FOQA, U.S. trade policy and the global challenge posed by Emirates.

That's it for now. Thanks for checking this hotline.


USAPA’s What’s Up on the Line?: September 4, 2013

Q – If Judge Lane approves the new American Plan of Reorganization next week as some suspect, when will the “Effective Date” of the POR be?

A – The ‘Effective Date’ does not occur until all aspects of the merger have been approved. In earlier publications associated with the MOU education process we stated: “As you review the MOU you will see many references to the ‘Effective Date’. The ‘Effective Date’ is the date that the merger is actually complete after all government, regulatory, shareholder and bankruptcy court approvals have been obtained. This is the trigger for the new pay rates, protections and other elements of the MOU affecting us.”

Generally the Bankruptcy Court’s approval of the POR would be the last step in the process, but due to the DOJ action, the Effective Date will not occur prior to final governmental approval.

Considering the November 25th trial date, we do not expect the ‘Effective Date’ to occur prior to mid-December at the earliest, and it could easily take place after the beginning of the year. If a settlement is reached out of court with the DOJ and their lawsuit is dropped, then it’s possible it could occur sooner. The Company has stated they would like to close the deal before year's end if possible.

Q – Now that the merger has been delayed, will we be remaining on our current insurance plan for 2014?

A – Because of the merger delay, we are moving forward with a regular Annual Enrollment for pilots to enroll in the US Airways plans for 2014. Annual Enrollment will be held November 1 through November 20, 2013, with enrollment closing at 11:59 pm CT/9:59 pm PT on Wednesday, November 20, 2013. Benefit fairs will be held October 14 through October 30, 2013, at various locations throughout the system. The Annual Enrollment brochure will be mailed on October 8, 2013. This is actually better for us because the US Airways plans are less expensive than those offered by American.
 
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PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines #3: September 5, 2013

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US Airways, American Airlines plan ‘fly-in’ to lobby for merger support in Washington, D.C.

During the two-day event, 300 employees from both airlines will visit the Capitol to meet with senators and congressmen in an effort to directly communicate the benefits of the merger for all stakeholders

See Story: http://aviationblog.dallasnews.com/2013/09/us-airways-american-airlines-plan-fly-in-to-lobby-for-merger-support-in-washington-d-c.html/


US Airways' Security "Gaps Up on the Open" and Rises for the Fifth Consecutive Trading Day: September 5, 2013

See Story: http://finance.yahoo.com/echarts?s=LCC+Interactive#symbol=lcc;range=5d;compare=;indicator=sma+volume;charttype=area;crosshair=on;ohlcvalues=0;logscale=off;source=undefined;


Sign Up for a Chance to Show Your Support in Washington D.C. for the US Airways and American Merger!

See Story: https://c03.keysurvey.com/survey/107811/303f/


You & Your Family Members Can Make A Difference (Send a Message to Your Elected Representatives and Speak Up for the New American Airlines): September 5, 2013

See Story: http://newamericanarriving.com/speak-up/


Flightline (APA's Magazine with Proposed Merger Updates): September 2013

See Story: https://public.alliedpilots.org/APA/Portals/0/Flightline/2013/2013-Summer/
 
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PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines: September 6, 2013

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Airlines ask workers to lobby for merger in D.C.

See Story: http://www.star-telegram.com/2013/09/06/5140200/airlines-ask-workers-to-lobby.html?rh=1


Airline analyst says speculation about JetBlue role in a merger is overblown

JetBlue overlaps with American on 34 routes — by comparison, American and US Airways overlap on just 12 nonstop routes.

See Story: http://finance.yahoo.com/news/analyst-dismisses-jetblue-merger-speculation-194008435.html


Why States Are Lining Up To Oppose The American-US Airways Merger

American and US Airways are pushing the benefits of their merger, and do not think the attorneys general moves will get in the way

See Story: http://www.forbes.com/sites/michelinemaynard/2013/09/06/why-states-are-lining-up-to-oppose-the-american-us-airways-merger/?partner=yahootix


US Airways' passenger traffic continues to rise in August

See Story: http://www.bizjournals.com/charlotte/news/2013/09/06/us-airways-passenger-traffic.html


3 idle thoughts for Friday

Is the issue in the antitrust lawsuit whether the merger would be good for business and employees? Or is the issue whether the merger violates federal antitrust law?

See Story: http://aviationblog.dallasnews.com/2013/09/3-idle-thoughts-for-friday-286.html/


APA INFORMATION HOTLINE: September 6, 2013

This is APA Communications Committee Chairman First Officer Tom Hoban with the APA Information Hotline for Friday, Sept. 6.

SIGN UP FOR DCA FLY-IN: If you would like to participate in the DCA lobby day and rally Sept. 17 and 18 in support of the American Airlines–US Airways merger, sign up now on Jetnet. When you log in, click the merger tab on the home page underneath the picture of the 777. Then make your reservation for the rally on the Washington, D.C., Fly-in tab. Registration will be open until Monday. According to the notice posted on Jetnet, employees will be selected at random based on where they reside to ensure a broad geographic cross-section.

The Jetnet page also includes the schedule of events for the 17th and 18th. American Airlines and US Airways will provide confirmed business-pass travel to Washington, D.C., one-night accommodations, ground transportation and meals. Uniformed employees should wear their uniforms to the Capitol Hill events.

9/11 OBSERVANCES: The APA leadership will participate in observances at the 9/11 Flight Crew Memorial in Grapevine, Texas, on the morning of Sept. 11. Here are details of observances in various locations for those of you wishing to attend.

California: 9/11 Memorial for First Responders, USS Midway in San Diego

Pennsylvania: Two 9/11 observances are planned:

9/11 Memorial Garden
September 11 Observance

Texas: Day of Remembrance and Dedication, 1000 Texan Trail in Grapevine

That's it for now. Thanks for checking this hotline.
 
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PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines: September 8, 2013

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Failed U.S. Airways-American merger will hit foreign flights

See Story: http://www.reuters.com/article/2013/09/07/us-aerospace-defense-airlines-idUSBRE98602520130907?feedType=RSS&virtualBrandChannel=11563


Sign Up for a Chance to Show Your Support In Washington D.C. for the US Airways and American Merger!

See Story: https://c03.keysurvey.com/survey/107811/303f/


What, you want to know all 1,008 routes listed by DOJ in the American Airlines-US Airways complaint?

See Story: http://aviationblog.dallasnews.com/2013/09/what-you-want-to-know-all-1008-routes-listed-by-doj-in-the-american-airlines-us-airways-complaint.html/


APFA Weekly Hotline - 9/11, Contact Congress, DC Fly-In, APFA Meets with Att'y Gen, Thresholds, Same Sex Couples, Initial Training Info: September 6, 2013

9/11
Earlier this week, APFA published an online memorial card honoring the crew members we lost on 9/11. Hundreds of employees have added their thoughts to the page that will eventually end up at the 9/11 MemorialMuseum in New York opening next Spring. Please take a moment to sign the card.

Wednesday marks the twelfth anniversary of 9/11. There are many events around the nation, several of which are listed below. Please feel free to forward any events in your area to [email protected].

Shanksville, PA

Flight 93 National Memorial

9:45 a.m.
6424 Lincoln Highway

Stoystown, PA

San Diego, California

USS Midway

2:30 p.m. (free admission beginning at 1:00 pm)

Navy Pier

910 North Harbor Drive

San Diego, CA

Grapevine, Texas

9/11 Flight Crew Memorial

7:35 a.m.

100 Texan Trail

Grapevine, TX

New York, NY Events
Washington, D.C. Events
Boston, MA Events

Action Alert
Write to your Senators and Representative and tell them they got it wrong regarding the lawsuit filed by the DOJ, 7 state attorneys general and D.C. against the merger. Ask for their support using our easy online CapWiz tool.

For up-to-date information on the merger, visit apfa.org and click on AA/US Merger. Below are the relevant hearing documents and several news items issued this week:

DOJ Antitrust Documents
Final Scheduling Order for DOJ Hearing - 9.06.13
Laura Glading Letter to Attorney General Nathan - 9.05.13
DOJ Amended Complaint - 9.05.13

DOJ Antitrust Related News Articles
Why States Are Lining Up To Oppose The American-US Airways Merger (Forbes) 9.06.13
American Airlines makes it easy to write government and oppose lawsuit (Dallas Morning News) - 9.05.13
Flaws Found US DOJ Lawsuit Against American/US Airways Merger (Aspire Aviation) - 9.05.13
Airline workers looking to strike back, gently (Dallas Morning News) - 9.03.13
How Budget Cuts are Helping the AMR Corporation – US Airways Merger (Motley Fool) - 9.03.13
American Airlines stock soars on settlement push, trial date (Charlotte Business Journal) - 9.03.13
JetBlue not interested in merger, acquisition (Reuters) - 9.03.13
Robert Crandall on the Merger (Dallas Morning News) - 9.01.13
Laura Glading, Neil Roghair on Bloomberg Live (Video) - 8.30.13

AA/US Airways DC Fly-In - Sign Up!
AA and US Airways are looking for volunteers to lobby Congress in support of our pending merger. AA is offering positive space business travel, one night's accommodation, ground transportation and meals for participants who are selected out of the volunteer pool. AA and US Airways will select volunteers at random based on the districts they still need represented. If you are interested in participating, please sign upvia Jetnet. This Jetnet page contains the schedule of events. Uniforms are required while lobbying.

APFA Meets with Tennessee Attorney General (One of the 7 state AGs against the merger)
APFA Legislative Rep. Julie Fredrick (IDF) and APFA Contract Coordinator Brent Peterson (JFK) headed up a team of Flight Attendants from AA and US Airways to meet with the Attorney General of Tennessee today.

TN Attorney General Robert Cooper stated he had joined the lawsuit because of repeated failed promises from Delta leading up to their merger. He said that Delta had simply abandoned the Northwest hub at Memphis and that he was obligated to speak on behalf of the consumers of his state. Among other things, we reminded AG Cooper that unlike Delta and Northwest, the American/US Airways combo had no overlapping hubs. He was grateful for the time the reps took to meet with him. He acknowledged that a negotiated resolution was the best way and that he would actually press the DOJ on that issue.

APFA Meets With Texas Congressman Michael Burgess
APFA Legislative Affairs Rep Julie Frederick (IDF) and Jennifer Brissette (IDF) met with Congressman Michael Burgess (TX-R) on Thursday to discuss the pending antitrust case and to thank the Congressman for his support. Rep. Burgess' North Texas district is adjacent to DFW and represents approximately 650 APFA members.

If you would like to read Rep. Burgess' letter to the U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder,click here.

THRESHOLDS: Employment, Sick, Vacation and Benefits
APFA continues to receive questions regarding thresholds for employment, sick and vacation accrual and benefits due to the delay in our emergence from bankruptcy as a result of the DOJ lawsuit. Due to the high likelihood that we will not merge prior to December 31, 2013, all FAs should be focused on meeting the current thresholds.

For the Employment Threshold this means: You must have 420 paid hours (or an average of 35 paid hours per active month) during the 2013 calendar year.
For Sick and Vacation accrual eligibility this means: You must have 600 paid hours (or an average of 50 paid hours per active month) during the 2013 calendar year.

Due to the delay of the merger the decision has been made not to apply the July 31, 2013, look back for 2014 Health Benefits. Rather the threshold for benefits will remain the current 420 paid hours (or an average of 35 hours per active month) on a rolling 12-month look-back basis.

Same-Sex Married Couples Recognized!
Last week, The U.S. Treasury Department issued the long-awaited regulations that legally married same-sex couples will be recognized as married for federal tax purposes, regardless of their state of residence. This means that AA will now start moving forward with the administrative changes required to register and recognize legally married same sex spouses. While all marriages are covered, the ruling doesn’t cover registered domestic partnerships, civil unions, or similar formal relationships recognized under various state laws. In the next few weeks, HR will provide more information on how this will impact benefits, taxes, retirement and other programs. Refer to the following link for more information: http://www.irs.gov/uac/Answers-to-Frequently-Asked-Questions-for-Same-Sex-Married-Couples

Last Chance: Initial Training Information Form
Were you in AA new hire training from 1978 through 1985? Or were you in one of the following new hire classes: 86-22, 23 & 30; 87-08, 09, 10, 21 & 41; 88-20, 29, 30, 34, 35, 36, 37 & 39; 89-07 & 37 or 91-49. If so, you have until September 9th to assist APFA in confirming our initial new hire class information.

APFA currently has class information and rosters for more than 700 new hire classes over the last 50 years. Several of the new hire training rosters for the years and classes mentioned do not have employee numbers. Some rosters have been damaged or are not entirely legible. This, combined with name changes that have taken place since training due to marriage, divorce, etc. has made it extremely time consuming to make a positive match for the initial new hire class for all FAs. If you were hired during these years please access the Flight Attendant Initial Training Information Form via this linkand provide the information requested. The most important information we are seeking is your class number and last name during initial training. It is not necessary to provide training dates unless you just happen to recall this information. APFA will use this information to help us verify our records and prepare for the eventual integration of our seniority list with the US Airways’ seniority list. Please complete this form by September 9, 2013.

APFA has not yet determined how Occupational Seniority dates should be adjusted.Please note: Any adjustment will not result in a change to the relative order of APFA’s current list.

*If you are unable to log into the APFA website to gain access to this request, send an email from the address you have on file with APFA to [email protected] requesting a reset password. If you have not logged in before, please send an email to [email protected] with the following information:
First Name
Last Name
Employee Number
Last 4 digits of your SSN



AmericanAirlines + US Airways
"MERGE!"

Leslie Mayo
APFA National Communications Coordinator
 
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PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines: September 9, 2013

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Will Merger of AMR Corporation & US Airways Have a Negative Impact

See Story: http://www.sbwire.co...pact-326161.htm


If AA-US Air merger fails, rivals 'will clean their clocks'

Justice Department’s suit focused on domestic overlap between American and US Airways but "overlooked the fiercest arena of airline competition these days: long-haul international flights that are vital to airlines' financial success."

Reuters says most industry observers believe three large competitors — as opposed to a "duopoly" — are needed to provide competition for corporate contracts.

See Story: http://www.usatoday....-fails/2785497/


Dear Congressman: US Airways, American workers encouraged to write elected officials

See Story: http://www.bizjourna...s-american.html


Airlines ask workers to lobby for merger in DC

See Story: http://azstarnet.com...0d6218a759.html


If the airlines should merge - US Airways, American Airlines deal could be done smoothly at McCarran airport

Would the merger result in higher airfares? Airline executives say no, because the company still would need to compete with two other megacarriers, United and Delta. The Justice Department disagrees.

See Story: http://www.vegasinc....s-should-merge/


Wolfe Research (Inside Airlines: Addressing Feedback on Our Oracle/PeopleSoft Note by Hunter Keay): September 9, 2013

We believe DoJ will lose its case against AMR/LCC because of a weak complaint that’s founded on questionable data, selective history, and anecdotal statistics. Two weeks ago we wrote a note comparing the DoJ’s failure to block the Oracle acquisition of PeopleSoft to the current complaint against AMR/LCC. We compared themes from the Judge’s opinion in O/PS to this DoJ complaint and concluded that DoJ is likely to lose AMR/LCC because DoJ seems to be repeating similar mistakes. We received good feedback on that note, including valuable constructive criticism from antitrust attorneys.


APA Update (Governance Project Update/Roadmap): September 9, 2013

APA received nearly 100 applications from pilots interested in volunteering for the governance project. The Core Group has made initial selections for the Working Group and Project Team, and letters have been sent to all applicants informing them of their assignments. Your APA national officers and board of directors want to thank all who applied.

STATUS REPORT AND OVERVIEW

Where We Have Been

Strategic Planning Committee identified need to improve APA governance (structure/process/culture).

Committee researched consulting firms and presented Tecker International to APA board of directors (BOD).

Tecker provided initial consultation; BOD interviewed Tecker.

BOD approved Tecker proposal.

BOD appointed and approved Core Group (CG) to manage project.

Nearly 100 pilots applied to volunteer for participation in project.

National officers (NO), BOD and select committee chairs and directors spent two days developing draft strategic plan (led by Tecker).

40 volunteers selected for Working Group (WG) and Project Team (PT).

Current Position

BOD/CG further refining draft strategic plan.

Tecker principles and draft strategic plan being introduced to WG and PT.

What's Ahead (see Tecker proposal for more complete explanation)

September

Tecker consultants conduct telephone interviews to collect data across all AA pilot demographics.

NO and BOD conduct policy-review survey Sept. 6–13.

NO and BOD attend knowledge-based strategic governance training session Sept. 17.

WG participates in structural assessment session Sept. 26.

October

PT, NO and BOD participate in remodel summit Oct. 24 to explore governance/structure models.

BOD reviews and refines APA Policy Manual.

November

APA conducts electronic town hall meeting Nov. 20 for entire membership to provide input.

BOD participates in further process/implementation training.

December

WG designs prototype APA governance structure after membership input.
BOD reviews and refines APA C&B.

January/February

BOD approves final recommendations/governance model and presents to APA membership during local domicile meetings.

March

BOD approves by vote any C&B changes to start the 100-day abeyance time period.

As always, please direct your questions and comments to your APA BOD reps.

Additionally, you'll receive regular updates on the project's progress.
 
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PilotAction Merger News for US Airways & American Airlines: September 10, 2013

US-AA-family-button.jpg


AMR, US Airways to Ask Board's to Extend Merger Termination Date

In a statement, the two airlines said Tuesday that they continue to work closely with the creditors committee on all key matters, including the Justice Department litigation.

The airlines could pursue a settlement that may assuage the Justice Department’s concerns. It isn’t known whether those negotiations are under way. Often concessions aren’t reached until the eve of an antitrust trial.

See Story: http://stream.wsj.co...99/SS-2-323685/


US Airways, American defend planned merger in court filing

See Story: http://finance.yahoo...-024352263.html


AMR, US Airways Defend Merger as Beneficial to Consumers

See Story: http://www.bloomberg...html?cmpid=yhoo


American Airlines, US Airways fire back at Justice Department over antitrust lawsuit

US Airways criticized the DOJ’s stance that either airline could survive alone without merging, calling that view “not relevant to the antitrust analysis before the court.”

See Story: http://www.dallasnew...ust-lawsuit.ece


AMR’s defense of its merger with US Airways

See Story: http://aviationblog....s-airways.html/


US Airways’ defense of its merger with American Airlines

See Story: http://aviationblog....-airlines.html/


Defendant AMR Corporations' Answer and Affirmative Defense to Plaintiffs' Amended Complaint

See Story: http://aviationblog....t.-10-20131.pdf


Defendant US Airways Group, Inc.'s Answer to Amended Complaint

See Story: http://aviationblog....pt.-10-2013.pdf


APA Update (Sept. 11, 2001: We Must Never Forget): September 10, 2013

On the morning of Wednesday, Sept. 11, I will attend memorial services at the 9/11 Flight Crew Memorial in Grapevine, Texas, with a delegation from APA headquarters, including fellow national officers, committee members and staff.

Below are links to observances in other locations. You also might want to check your local newspaper for events in your community.

California: 9/11 Memorial for First Responders, USS Midway in San Diego
Pennsylvania:

9/11 Memorial Garden
September 11 Observance

Wherever your schedule takes you on the 11th, please join me in remembering the thousands of innocent lives that ended that terrible day, including our fellow American Airlines pilots, their cabin crew members and passengers.

As pilots, we continue to serve as the crucial last line of defense. For the sake of all of the lives lost or forever altered on 9/11 — and to prevent another such attack — we must never forget.
 

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