United Airlines & Teamsters Negotiations Update

Teamsters Wrap Up First Bargaining Session in Chicago

The Teamsters made significant progress on a new contract as bargaining began with United Airlines in Chicago on August 8. Every proposal in the union’s opening non-economic offer was presented to the company.

“This is my first bargaining session, and I’m looking forward to getting a record contract as smoothly and quickly as we can,” said Jimmy Sligar from Teamsters Local 19 in Houston. “The union has a great committee, and we presented strong proposals to the company.”

Tentative Agreement Won on Tool Insurance

In the first round, the United Airlines Teamsters national committee secured a tentative agreement as the company agreed to raise the cap on tool insurance from $10,000 to $25,000.

Multiple subcommittees were formed during the session. One subcommittee will address issues around Article 18 (Union Security and Representation), Article 19 (Grievance Procedure), and Article 20 (Board of Arbitration).

“We are working more aggressively and transparently than ever before to make sure United Airlines hears directly from our members during these negotiations,” said Clacy Griswold, Chairman of the United Airlines Teamsters National Negotiating Committee. “The majority of the union’s full committee is made up of rank-and-file technicians. All proposals we will put on the table are drawn from the members. Together, with a united front, we have the power to take this company on and win big.”

Safety Protocols Must Be Improved

The Teamsters are demanding that United Airlines make serious improvements on every issue, including changes to Article 7K. The union is calling on the company to follow the guidelines of government agencies concerning shelter-in-place orders and other safety protocol during natural disasters. The urgency of this issue was apparent after United Airlines attempted to force Local 19 members to work during Hurricane Beryl in Houston.

“So far, United has failed to respond seriously to emergency response preparedness. If United Airlines thinks they can drag the issue out, they’re in for a rude awakening,” Griswold said. “Throughout this process, we will not back down from protecting the safety and health of our members.”

The Teamsters and United Airlines will resume negotiations in Denver August 20-22.

“It’s important for the 10,000 Teamsters technicians at United Airlines to know it’s a new day and we have a more militant and organized approach to bargaining,” said Dexter Thomas, a Teamster on the bargaining committee and Recording Secretary of Local 19. “We have heard our members’ concerns, and we will fight to make significant gains every single time we come to the table. It’s important for all Teamsters at United to get and stay involved in this campaign at their stations. In this battle for a historic agreement, solidarity will make all the difference.”