AMFA National - Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association

On Thursday May 5, 2005 open contract negotiations between the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association and Alaska Airlines continued at the Gold Coast Center in SeaTac.

May 5th and 6th, 2005

Participants for AMFA: 
Louie Key – Region 1 Director
Alan Templeman – Local 14 Airline Representative
Russ Grant – Local 34 Airline Representative
Earl Clark – Local 9 Airline Representative

Participants for Alaska Airlines:
Kurt Kinder – Director of Line Maintenance
Dave Schwartz – Manager, M&E Union Relations
Steve Zerda – Director, Maint. Planning & Mat’l. Control
Elizabeth Ryan – Manager, Labor Relations
Ronald Henson - Attorney at Law, Ford & Harrison LLP

We opened the week with discussions between the parties on how best to proceed after the receipt of the Company’s Comprehensive Economic Proposal. Their comprehensive proposal made little movement from their previous proposal. After expressing our disappointment and concerns with this development, and the lack of movement in Article 2, the parties decided the best approach was to gain a collective understanding of what is meant when speaking of the "market" as in "market based wages" and what is meant when referencing an "all in rate." Additionally, discussions surrounding relative position within the industry assisted in reaching better understanding between the parties.

Progress was made in gaining a mutual understanding between Alaska and AMFA and discussions continued on how best to move the process along.

Additionally, the Company shared some insight, at least conceptually, on what they were preparing to propose in regard to Article 2. They indicated they were considering language that would closely resemble the job protection language we are currently under (i.e. protect the current number of employees for a defined time period). We clarified that we intend the job protection language to continue for the duration of the Agreement as well as cover currently staffed stations.

As always, we would like to thank the observers that were in attendance and encourage others to attend in the future during this important process.

The next round of AMFA – ASA negotiations in Seattle; will take place at the Gold Coast Center, dates listed below. Please watch the Local 14 website for any updated information.

For additional negotiation information and other AMFA carrier updates, please call the AMFA National Hotline at (800)-520-AMFA (2632).