Wed, Mar 21, 2018
Approximately 150 Aircraft Workers At SeaTac Airport Voted To Join The Union
Nearly 150 aircraft fuelers, dispatchers and mechanics employed by Swissport have finally received word that they were successful in their effort to join Teamsters Local 174. The mostly-immigrant workgroup is based at SeaTac airport, and is responsible for fueling all commercial aircraft departing from that airport.
"These individuals perform technically difficult work that has a direct impact on public safety, yet Swissport pays them minimum wage without benefits. Turnover is sky-high as a result," said Local 174 Secretary-Treasurer Rick Hicks. "For the work they do, these people deserve far better treatment. The customers of Alaska Airlines and all the flying public deserves better. We are proud to see them standing together to tell their employer that they will not be taken advantage of anymore."
The fuelers will join their 13 fellow Swissport employees working at the SeaTac fuel farm as members of Teamsters Local 174.
The election victory comes after a difficult organizing campaign spearheaded by Local 174 Director of Organizing Meaza Ogbe.
"We faced numerous challenges, especially language and cultural barriers, but those were ultimately overcome by speaking a language we can all understand: the language of respect," said Ogbe. "I am so proud of the courage these workers demonstrated in standing up to their employer and not falling prey to their manipulations. They are now in a great position to improve their wages, hours and working conditions, which will improve their entire standard of living."
The election results will be certified next week and the union will begin the process of negotiating a first contract by conducting a demands meeting and listening to the employees on what they wish to accomplish.
"Welcome to our new sisters and brothers to the Teamsters Union, and welcome to a better way of life," Hicks said. "We are happy to have you in our family."
(Source: Teamsters news release)
More News
Say Altitude Used by ATC to ascertain an aircraft's specific altitude/flight level. When the aircraft is climbing or descending, the pilot should state the indicated altitude round>[...]
Aero Linx: European Air Law Association (EALA) EALA was established in 1988 with the aim to promote the study of European air law and to provide an open forum for those with an int>[...]
From 2023 (YouTube Version): The Life, Death, Life, Death, and Life of a Glorious Warbird In 1981, business-owner Jim Tobul and his father purchased a Chance-Vought F4U Corsair. Mo>[...]
Also: USCG Retires MH-65 Dolphins, Irish Aviation Authority, NATCA Warns FAA, Diamond DA42 AD This summer, history enthusiasts will have a unique opportunity to experience World Wa>[...]
Also: WACO Kitchen Bails, French SportPlane Mfr to FL, Dynon-Advance Flight Systems, Innovation Preview Bobby Bailey, a bit of a fixture in sport aviation circles for his work with>[...]