Like you, your fellow members of the Air Line Pilots Association, International have aimed aluminum at a runway thousands of times, watched the rabbit disappear into the fog, kicked out the crab in the touchdown zone, and done the thousand little and big things you do to convert kerosene into passenger seat miles or cargo ton miles. They’ve also elected their local executive council and master executive council reps, voted tentative agreements up or down, and used ALPA’s resources, credibility, and clout to make the airline industry more competitive, more secure, and ever safer. Many of their issues are your issues, too, so please take the time to read the profiles included within the next 32 pages, including your own.

A United B757-200 sits at the terminal at San Francisco International Airport. Photo by F/O David Kolodziej (United) January 2014 Air Line Pilot 15 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 AirTran Pilots Navigate a Turbulent Transition By Toni C. Vacinek the AirTran Master Executive Southwest operations during ALPA Senior Council (MEC), the pilots have 2014 with the final AirTran Communications Specialist overcome numerous ordeals flying being completed that can accompany an acqui- around year’s end. ATN at a Glance uring 2013, the pilots sition of this magnitude. “This coming year will Pilots joined ALPA: 2009 of AirTran Airways The Milwaukee (MKE) bring the integration of the Pilots: 1,000+ Dbecame immersed in B-737 domicile was closed in majority of the premerger Pilot domiciles: Atlanta, Ga., the transition to Southwest March, and those MKE-based AirTran pilot group,” says and Orlando, Fla. Airlines. More than 500 pilots pilots were sent to their Capt. Mark Hatten, the pilots’ Headquarters: Dallas, Tex. completed training to be- awarded positions, some MEC chairman. “Throughout Operations/services: AirTran come Southwest line pilots. becoming Southwest first of- the entire process, the Airways, a wholly owned As 2014 begins, more than ficers and some remaining at constant has been the pro- subsidiary of Southwest 1,000 pilots remain at AirTran. AirTran to then fly the B-717. fessionalism of the AirTran Airlines Co., offers coast-to- coast and near-international Last year was full of The Orlando (MCO) base for pilots. With all that this pilot service with around 340 flights multiple challenges relating AirTran B-737s was closed by group has weathered, it con- a day to 35+ domestic and 7 to the Southwest acquisition. September, and those pilots tinues to rally and support near-international destinations. The company’s decision to were sent across the partition each other in every situation, Fleet: 72 B-717s and 33 B-737s sublease AirTran’s B-717 fleet to Southwest first officer making the needs of fellow to Delta left the pilot group positions despite several pilots the overall priority.” disenchanted and angered. senior pilots holding B-717 The MEC’s primary focus An arbitration process dealing captain awards. These and this year will be the single with the sublease and its other unexpected changes representation of both the effect on the ratified integra- from the ratified agreement AirTran and Southwest pilot tion agreement began in have caused disruption and groups as operations will September 2012 and came to financial harm to AirTran be combined by the end of a close in November 2013. At pilots. the year. And while ALPA’s stake were captain positions, As the transition continues leaders and staff remain com- compensation, and base and the number of pilots mitted to making available preference. working under the AirTran all union resources to the In May, an collective bargaining agree- AirTran pilots, preparations arbitrator de- ment declines, the MEC for change in union represen- termined that continues the business of tation must move forward. the complaint representing its pilots. Many The MEC leaders recognize was within the officers, committee chair- the value in a single, unified jurisdiction of men, and volunteers have pilot group at Southwest and the dispute transitioned to Southwest, plan to continue working resolution and other AirTran pilots have with the Southwest Airlines process. The stepped in to do the work. Pilots’ Association (SWAPA) second arbitra- With more than 600 pilots to blueprint the process and tion brought a expected to remain at AirTran establish a suitable time line. disappointing throughout the summer, the In 2014, the remaining conclusion to MEC’s efforts to represent AirTran pilots will take part the process their interests will continue. in the final integration of the when the AirTran pilots saw the two airlines and the eventual AirTran Local Executive arbitrator rejected AirTran Southwest Atlanta pilot single-carrier status. This Council 71 chairman Capt. pilot claims and declined to domicile open on Aug. 1, group of pilots will conclude Jim Gallagher and (former) remedy the problems pro- 2013. This bittersweet a proud chapter of airline AirTran F/O Christi Taylor duced by the B-717 sublease. event brought back several history and begin the next in the cockpit of their Throughout both the former AirTran pilots who chapter as Southwest Airlines B-717. Taylor transitioned arbitrations and the wait- had already transitioned to pilots. The final and lasting to Southwest Airlines in ing period in between, the Southwest and demonstrated legacy of AirTran pilots will February 2013. AirTran pilot group main- a more tangible blending of be one of excellence, dignity, tained consummate profes- the operations. AirTran routes and regard for their fellow sionalism and unity. Led by will continue to transfer to pilots. 16 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Air Transat Navigating Troubled Waters By Jen Lofquist “The fleet [letter of under- Temporary Foreign Worker ALPA Senior standing (LOU)] signed in 2010 Program has long threatened Communications Specialist was very much the product the airline piloting profession of the time. The LOU could in Canada—and Air Transat s 2013 comes to a not ensure the sustainability in particular, because of its close, the flightcrew of Air Transat and our jobs,” holiday travel focus—by tak- Amembers of Air says Roy. “We were inventing ing jobs away from furloughed Transat continue to navigate a unique operating model Canadian pilots. Some of the a number of challenges, as we went along. We ended problems were based in the including working with a new up with a multitype internal government’s lack of under- Master Executive Council ‘accordion’ fleet, with several standing of the airline piloting (MEC), dealing with unhelp- of our pilots having ful government actions, and dual qualifications.” transitioning to a new in- The old LOU was house fleet. based on a model of In May 2013, the MEC reciprocity and on experienced its own chal- traditional staffing lenges as new leaders were rules. These had to put into place due to a sudden be completely revised turnover. Working with ALPA to work with the new national officers and legal fleet arrangement. The counsel, temporary leaders new LOU ratified in were quickly selected; a 2013 delivers signifi- temporary MEC chairman was cant benefits—pilots named with the sole duty of with dual qualifications Capt. Patrice Roy, the temporary MEC chair, in the cockpit. holding elections as quickly as will continue to earn their possible for MEC chairman, applicable widebody salary profession. For instance, there vice chairman, and secretary- when flying B-737s, pilots seemed to be confusion treasurer. These officers will flying B-737s will retain their between a type rating and a hold their positions until permanent bases even during pilot certificate. Also, although February 2014. seasonal operations, and pilots Citizen Immigration Canada “Without effective leader- will enjoy better salary protec- called for reciprocity between ship, no group functions prop- tion and recognition of service the number of foreign workers erly,” comments Capt. Patrice in a higher classification. coming into Canada and the Roy, the pilots’ temporary MEC However, most importantly, number of Canadian pilots chairman. “We were able to the pilot group will have a having foreign opportunities, lean on ALPA national to help stable level of employment— no clear standard existed as to us find a way for our pilots to crewmembers will be able to what that reciprocity meant reconnect with the leadership, shift from one aircraft type to in practice. ALPA’s Canada and we needed to rebuild trust another during seasonal highs Board and Government within the organization.” and lows in traffic. In addition, Affairs Department lobbied In the midst of the change the profit sharing the group in Ottawa, Ont., for stronger in MEC leaders, Transat A.T. accepted in 2012 in lieu of language and a distinct defini- TSC at a Glance (the parent company) an- salary increases has paid off, tion of reciprocity. Pilots joined ALPA: 1999 nounced in May 2013 that with each pilot receiving a 7 “Although this past year has Number of pilots: 425 when its charter contract percent bonus in 2013. been challenging,” says Roy, Headquarters: Pierre E. with CanJet expires in May The first B-737 will be “we have moved forward by Trudeau International Airport, 2014, it will not be renewed, introduced in February 2014, unifying not only within our Montreal, P.Q. and Air Transat’s fleet will be to be followed by four more group, but with the other pilot Pilot bases: Montreal, P.Q.; Toronto, Ont.; and Vancouver, B.C. brought in-house. The pilots permanent B-737s by May 1. groups in Canada. It’s only by were pleased as they had been An additional challenge cooperation that Air Transat Fleet: 9 A310s and 12 A330s, plus 5 B-737s arriving in 2014 eager to operate all Air Transat stems from a situation cre- pilots can work through these flying since negotiating the ated not at the airport, but in difficult times and come out charter contract in 2010. the halls of Parliament. The stronger.” January 2014 Air Line Pilot 17 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 Air Transport Int’l The Challenging Effects of Transition and Change By Tawnya Burket (PFE) representative, Scott Proving runs were completed ALPA Communications Olson, when he was fur- in summer through fall for Specialist loughed last fall before com- the B-757 combi. Tabletop pleting his full term of office exercises for the Atlantic, ir Transport Interna- through February 2015. Pacific, and Indian Oceans tional (ATI) crewmem- During the summer ETOPs validation runs were A bers are no strangers and fall 0f 2013, the Joint also successful, putting the to transition and change, Implementation Review B-757 on the DC-8 combi especially during 2013 when Committee (JIRC) met with runs. Since the four-engine the group faced the challeng- management to ensure DC-8 is being replaced by es that come with a merger. that implementation of the a more fuel-efficient twin- Operationally, the merger JCBA was under way. The engine aircraft to compete with Capital Cargo Interna- committee resolved several in the global marketplace, a tional Airlines issues that arose as the JCBA series of validation tests were (CCIA) became was being implemented, necessary to demonstrate final on March including items related to that ATI can safely operate 8 when ATI junior assignments, benefits, twin-engine airplanes in ex- received its retirement, the sick-bank tended overwater operations. single operat- conversion process, and The airline and the ing certificate uniforms for former Capital FAA are currently in the and the final employees. The JIRC had final stages of approving CCIA flight authority to deal with unex- an Aviation Safety Action P hoto by C took off. Only pected issues for the first six Program (ASAP). “This pro-

apt days before, months following the March gram, designed to enhance . T

om R the joint collec- 6, 2013, JCBA effective date. safety at ATI by providing a

ogers tive bargaining Once the committee was way for management, the agreement dissolved in September, the pilots, and the FAA to detect The DC-8 bids farewell to Air Transport (JCBA) and normal contract enforcement and rectify safety problems is International crews as it retires this year. integrated and grievance proceedings key,” notes Rogers. “We have seniority list became effective. been trying for years to get had taken effect. Other challenges that ASAP on the property and By April, the 11-month arose during the merger and are happy to see it’s coming merger process concluded implementation of the new to fruition.” Once approved, when the ATI and CCIA contract dealt with schedul- the MEC will be educating its crewmembers took steps ing and training discrepan- members about the program. to combine their single- cies. Transition training The current ATI collec- ATI at a Glance council Master Executive continues as DC-8 combis tive bargaining agreement Crewmembers joined ALPA: Councils (MECs) by hold- are being retired, moving the becomes amendable in May November 2009 ing an election for status pilots into Boeing airplanes, 2014. The MEC is planning Number of crewmembers: representatives and then which unfortunately means for the future by preparing a 345 with 159 on furlough MEC officers to be chosen that fellow crewmembers 2014 strategic plan and will Operations: Combi passenger, among the three elected had to say good-bye to the consider the best path to military, and cargo operations around the world reps to represent the entire professional flight engineers. seize opportunities that will pilot group. That MEC dealt The flight engineer craft is most benefit the pilot group. Base: Home-based with many hurdles in its being phased out at ATI and “I look forward to building Corporate headquarters: Wilmington, Ohio first year of office. “We are many other cargo airlines; all more unity within the group, working to find balance as of the 78 PFEs once on the creating a stronger commit- Fleet: Currently operates seven B-767 freighters and we continue to navigate property were furloughed as tee structure that allows us seven B-757s, four of which through all of the changes of Jan. 1, 2014. to help and work with one are freighters and three are related to the merger,” says B-757 pilots from the another more effectively, combis (fourth combi in the Capt. Tom Rogers, the ATI domestic operation are be- and taking full advantage certification process) MEC chairman. The MEC lost ing trained in international of the arsenal of ALPA re- its secretary-treasurer and flight operations and differ- sources available to us,” says professional flight engineer ences training for the B-767. Rogers. 18 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Air Wisconsin Exemplary Pilots, Exemplary Volunteers By Lydia Jakub in compliance. The committee scenes to assist pilots with ALPA Senior also added a dedicated reserve personal as well as profession- Communications Specialist resource coordinator to assist al issues. These include the reserve pilots with contractual Aeromedical, Pilot Assistance, ir Wisconsin pilots and regulatory issues unique Professional Standards, and have been working for to them. Veterans Affairs Committees. Amore than three years Linked in many ways to to secure a new, improved Part 117, the MEC Central contract. Their Negotiating Air Safety Committee has Committee is at the tip of the been involved in expanding spear, working tirelessly for the protocols and procedures an agreement that recognizes of its fatigue-related safety the pilots’ contributions to the programs. It also tracks and airline. The process is being addresses safety issues, and overseen by the National provides continuing support Mediation Board, following the through the ASAP and FOQA company’s request for assis- Committees. tance in 2013. Having greatly assisted with MEC and ALPA staff gather at Fort Benjamin Harrison, a “Through mediation, we the recent implementation former U.S. Army post in Indianapolis, Ind. hope to get negotiations back of AQP, the MEC Testing and on track,” says Capt. Richard Training Committee has been Out in front protecting Swindell, chairman of the pi- preparing, alongside the MEC pilots’ rights is the MEC lots’ Master Executive Council Membership Committee, for Grievance Committee. In 2013, (MEC). “We have a vested the anticipated uptick in pilot the pilots augmented their interest in the continued suc- hiring in 2014 to replace pilots existing grievance process cess of our airline and demand leaving for a career elsewhere. with an alternate dispute more out of our contract, our The Critical Incident resolution process, which uses careers, and our management Response Program mobilized both expedited arbitration and team.” and worked closely with the mediation-arbitration. This At Air Wisconsin, an airline MEC and management to sup- change has helped to stream- where one in eight pilots is port the pilot group after the line the grievance process and a union volunteer, there are tragic loss of an Air Wisconsin address issues more quickly 22 standing committees that pilot in 2013. and efficiently. encompass a broad range of The MEC Hotel Committee The MEC Communications ARW at a Glance pilot services and issues that has worked diligently over the Committee is the cornerstone Pilots joined ALPA: 1982 the pilots face daily. last two years to significantly of solidarity, using a robust as a result of the Union of Professional Airmen merger multimodal platform to The MEC Legislative Affairs improve hotel standards and with ALPA Committee advocated on filmed a bedbug room inspec- ensure that the Air Wisconsin Number of pilots: 665 Capitol Hill to level the playing tion video to help keep pilots pilots are informed. In 2013, Operations: Nearly 500 “high tech” was paired with field for the U.S. airline indus- safe and healthy. departures per day to 26 states try. Volunteers were also in As speculation of continued “high touch” when the MEC and 3 Canadian provinces; crew rooms, encouraging pilots consolidation within the Strategic Planning Committee, with service to 70 cities to support ALPA’s Political regional airline industry supported by the MEC Pilot- throughout North America, the Action Committee (PAC). continues, the MEC Merger to-Pilot Committee, met with airline carries nearly 6 million passengers per year Along with 100 percent MEC Committee is monitoring the every active line pilot by visit- Headquarters: Appleton, Wisc. participation, they quadrupled industry, maintaining relation- ing recurrent ground schools Air Wisconsin pilot participa- ships with other pilot groups, and hosting unity building Domiciles: New York, N.Y.; Norfolk, Va.; Philadelphia, Pa.; events around the system. tion in the PAC. and preparing for every and Washington, D.C. The MEC Scheduling possibility. “Serving our pilots is our Fleet: 71 Canadair 50-seat Committee worked to separate Also in existence are the No. 1 priority,” concludes regional jets (CRJ200s) the new flight-time/duty-time MEC committees commonly Swindell. “We continually seek rules into an easy-to-digest for- referred to as the “silent innovative solutions and are mat so that pilots could under- services,” as they do the major- prepared to address any chal- stand them better and remain ity of their work behind the lenge that may be ahead.” January 2014 Air Line Pilot 19 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 Alaska Collaborative Approach Benefits Pilots, Company ALA at a Glance By Jenn Sutton without a lengthy delay, understanding and letters of Number of pilots: 1,490 ALPA Senior including pay increases that agreement during Contract Operations: 95 destinations in Communications Specialist were effective on the amend- 2009, and this is something the U.S., Canada, and Mexico able date. Management ben- we are continuing during with 800 daily departures, n May 9, 2013, the efited by avoiding a period of Contract 2013.” including 40 markets flown by Horizon Air, which provides Alaska Airlines pilots’ labor uncertainty.” This approach resulted in feed traffic to Alaska Airlines O Master Executive Since contract ratification, additional improvements in under a capacity-purchase Council (MEC) Negotiating the MEC and manage- November. The Scheduling agreement. In 2013, Alaska Committee reached an agree- ment have continued their Management Group—a Airlines added four new ment in concept for a new cooperative approach to pilot-management working destination cities: Kansas City, Mo., and Salt Lake City, Utah, contract—just a little more solving problems. The MEC’s group that reviews and works which are served by Alaska than a month past the April 1 Negotiating and Scheduling to resolve issues related Airlines, and Colorado Springs, contract amendable date. And Committees have worked to scheduling—and the Colo., and Omaha, Neb., which in July, the pilots ratified that with management to inte- pilots’ Grievance Committee are operated exclusively by a agreement, putting in place a grate FAR Part 117 changes worked with management capacity-purchase agreement with SkyWest Airlines new five-year contract that in- into the contract. The new to reach precedent-setting cludes improvements in pay, agreement also contains grievance settlements and Fleet: 131 Boeing 737s, including 24 -400s, 17 -700s, greater ability for the pilots commitments to engage in to clarify contract language. 61 -800s, 12 -900s, 11 to adjust their schedules, and post-ratification discussions To ensure that pilots have -900ERs, 5 -400Cs, and 1 -400 enhanced job security while to modernize the section re- access to those agreements, freighter preserving benefits. lated to flight data recorders the MEC incorporated them Negotiations began in and to create a joint working into an electronic collective summer 2012, but the deci- group that will recommend bargaining agreement, which sion to pursue an agreement whether scheduling flexibility is available on both the that met the can be enhanced through MEC website and in a tablet- pilots’ require- new technology. Both of friendly format. ments by the these efforts likely will begin This cooperative approach amendable this year, after the new flight- also prompted the MEC to date came time/duty-time rules are invite Alaska’s executive about in 2011, implemented. leaders to address the MEC when—with the The MEC’s Scheduling during the MEC’s quarterly assistance of Committee is also working meetings. Management at- ALPA staff—the regularly with Alaska’s Crew tended MEC meetings in MEC developed Scheduling Department to August and October to dis- its strategic monitor how the provisions cuss Alaska’s direction, chal- plan that set of the contract are being lenges, and the company’s goals and direc- applied, and is engaging with business plans. Capt. Dan Hoffman and tion for both the company to find ways to “These discussions, which F/O Craig Davidson receive negotiations and the future continue to improve a pilot’s are covered by nondisclosure a tour of the Children’s beyond that. ability to adjust his or her agreements, and the candid Therapy Center (CTC), a “That we reached an schedule while meeting the dialogue that follows, allow nonprofit organization agreement so close to our company’s operational needs. the MEC to better plan for the in Burien, Wash., that amendable date that our “If we find areas where future and improves its ability provides therapy services for pilots ratified is the result of improvements can be made to more effectively address children from birth to age the hard work of both our without either side being pilot issues,” Notaro says. 18. Hoffman and Davidson Negotiating Committee and harmed, it doesn’t make The MEC is starting off are board members for management’s negotiating sense to wait until the next 2014 by meeting in January, the Alaska Airlines Pilots team. Both parties took a col- time we open the entire con- during which time it will Charitable Fund, which laborative approach to these tract to make those changes,” review and update its strate- made a grant that purchased negotiations, which benefited says F/O Sean Hansen, gic plan with the continuing several pieces of therapy the pilots and our company,” the pilots’ Negotiating goal of improving and pro- equipment for the CTC. says Capt. Chris Notaro, the Committee chairman. “We tecting the lives and working pilots’ MEC chairman. “Our began incorporating these conditions of Alaska Airlines’ pilots saw improvements types of memorandums of pilots. 20 Air Line Pilot January 2014 American Eagle Pilots in Holding Pattern with Recent AMR Merger By John Perkinson management team has been new positions, but each faces Staff Writer professional and amicable, as a probationary period. “We’re both have a vested interest in about to see a tremendous merican Eagle pilots the future of their airline as amount of movement at are waiting and watch- part of the new organization. Eagle,” says Sprague. Aing. In negotiating Unfortunately, that rapport a progressive bankruptcy has not trickled down to the restructuring labor agree- front lines where contract ment during 2012, Eagle compliance continues to be a

cockpit crewmembers were concern. E agle ) usha (A merican compelled to anticipate how Both the pilots and they could be affected by management recognize that the estimated $17.2 billion they face an uncertain future, F/O A ndi L by P hoto merger that would take place and the two sides have met a year later between their par- to discuss how they can en- ent company (the AMR Corp.) hance Eagle’s role within the and US Airways. new parent company. With “The hard part was not the combination of American having a clear vision, fleet and US Airways, Eagle will plan, or even a business plan be one of four wholly owned An American to work with,” says Capt. subsidiaries, and the MEC Eagle airplane Bill Sprague, the American remains in contact with pilots being de-iced at Eagle pilots’ Master Executive from the other airlines. Chicago O’Hare Council (MEC) chairman. And because of this uncer- International “Regardless of what happens tain future, no new airplanes Airport. as this deal unfolds, we are are on order at Eagle, and Also on the Eagle pilot committed to working toward plans to park older airplanes horizon is a preferential bid- a stable and successful future have been delayed. ding system (PBS). The pilots for our members.” In the interim, American agreed to a letter of intent And on Nov. 12, 2013, Eagle has not maintained to negotiate a PBS as part of EGL at a Glance the U.S. Department of adequate pilot staffing, the bankruptcy agreement of Pilots joined ALPA: 1995 Justice dropped its antitrust compelling the airline to 2012. PBS negotiations took (although Simmons had been an ALPA member since 1986, stretch its current resources. place during 2013, resulting in lawsuit, allowing the merger after the National Mediation to take place on December Retirement and attrition are a recent letter of agreement Board’s ruling that the four 9. Subsequently, AMR exited exacerbating the situation, (LOA) explaining exactly how airlines serving American from two years of Chapter and the airline recently PBS would be administered. Airlines—Executive, Flagship, 11 bankruptcy, and the made an arrangement with However, the LOA has yet to Simmons, and Wings West— constituted a single airline, Embry–Riddle Aeronautical be ratified, and pilots have newly combined organiza- the Eagle pilots established a tion became the American University to establish a expressed concern about single MEC) Airlines Group, Inc. As part of Pilot Pipeline Program to tap whether management will Number of pilots: 2,905 into a new source for airline- abide by the terms. the merger plan, the group’s Headquarters: Fort Worth, Tex. two mainline subsidiaries, qualified pilots. Eagle pilots were deeply Operations: American Eagle American Airlines and US The pipeline program is disappointed by the base clo- operates more than 1,700 daily Airways, will be combined particularly timely as the sures in Los Angeles, Calif., in flights to more than 150 cities to create the world’s largest Eagle pilots’ flow-through December 2012 and San Juan, throughout the United States, airline. agreement with American Puerto Rico, in March 2013. Canada, the Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Mexico With all of this recent activ- Airlines has been reactivated. However, the pilots remain ity, the Eagle pilots have also A minimum of 20 Eagle pilots cautiously optimistic that with Pilot domiciles: Chicago, Ill.; Dallas/Fort Worth, Tex.; Miami, (50 percent of each class) their new parent organization welcomed a new president at Fla.; and New York, N.Y. their airline, Pedro Fabregas, is expected to flow up to and changes in their airline Fleet: 47 CRJ700s, 181 ERJ Eagle’s former senior vice American each month during leadership new opportunities 145s, and 15 ERJ 170s president of customer 2014, based on seniority. will emerge to develop their services. So far, the MEC These crewmembers are not route structure and grow their relationship with the Fabregas required to interview for their airline. January 2014 Air Line Pilot 21 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 Atlantic Southeast Merging into a New Future By Jen Lofquist the regional airline industry rest of the industry. ALPA Senior changed. As the groups “There is never a good Communications Specialist moved into their third year, time to hear the word some groups within the ‘concessions.’ However, when s this issue goes to industry had signed conces- you’re working day in and press, the Atlantic sionary agreements while day out to finalize a merger, ASoutheast Airlines others were facing difficult it’s perhaps the worst,” ac- pilots’ Master Executive negotiations. The mainline knowledges Nieuwenhuis. “It Council (MEC) and the Joint industry was also changing completely reframed months, ASA at a Glance Negotiating Committee due to the United/Continental even years, of hard work, long Pilots joined ALPA: 1987 (JNC) are traveling with the merger, the American Airlines hours, and hundreds of pro- First ALPA contract: 1989 ExpressJet MEC, answering bankruptcy, and the proposed posals passed back and forth Number of pilots: 1,752 all the questions pilots have American/US Airways merger. across the table.” Headquarters: Atlanta, Ga. about an agreement that was With fewer opportunities to Faced by the economic Pilot bases: Dulles, Va.; more than three years in the differentiate their products state of the industry, the Atlanta, Ga.; Dallas, Tex.; and making. and fewer potential mainline demands from management, Detroit, Mich. The group is conducting clients, the regional industry and ExpressJet’s own balance Fleet: 112 CRJ200s, 46 an educational tour, to inform suffered. sheet, the Atlantic Southeast CRJ700s, and 10 CRJ900s pilots about the long-sought This past summer, man- MEC agreed to authorize its tentative agreement (TA). agement met with the JNC negotiators, accompanied by Voting opened on December requesting concessions, some- the ExpressJet MEC, to begin 17 and closes on Jan. 14, thing management had not concessionary bargaining. In 2014. This TA, although in addressed prior to the meet- just a few months, the JNC many respects industry- ing. The reasoning behind reached a TA, which was leading, contains concessions management’s request was released to the pilots in late that management required simple: Atlantic Southeast November 2013. to achieve lower block-hour and ExpressJet are owned by The MECs and JNC imme- costs. Even though capacity- SkyWest, Inc., which also owns diately began planning road purchase agreements (CPAs) SkyWest Airlines. ExpressJet shows in 10 cities in less than once contained substantial and SkyWest, Inc. had histori- 16 days. The communications profit margins, the regional cally shown a profit. But with plan also includes a public airline industry is facing chal- the increasingly competitive website, e-mail messages, lenging times and CPAs are environment and slim mar- all-pilot calls, and crew room often awarded to the lowest gins, ExpressJet was showing visits. The MECs and JNC are bidder. Regional airlines are losses. In fact, the airline was faced with the unenviable struggling to make more with projected to lose millions of position of presenting a less and asking for conces- dollars in 2013. concessionary TA to pilots sions across the industry. The situation was made who just six month ago were “Merging two airlines is more difficult as SkyWest, Inc. expecting gains. never simple or easy. This continues to make a profit, “I expect the Atlantic merger has proven that,” says due in large part to SkyWest Southeast pilots will do what F/O Wesley Blankenship Capt. David Nieuwenhuis, Airlines, a separate entity. I will do,” says Nieuwenhuis. checks the departure the Atlantic Southeast MEC Management has consistently “I’m going to read every page boards at Hartsfield– chairman. “When we started, argued that it wants two of the agreement, ask every Jackson Atlanta I think both groups expected competitive airlines, the question I can think of, and International Airport. a much smoother route. We newly merged ExpressJet take a good look at the indus- had a process agreement that and SkyWest. However, try and where I think it will be almost took for granted that ExpressJet’s block-hour costs in the next few years. After merging the groups would are higher than those of that, I’m going to drive home, be expedited. As time went SkyWest Airlines and those of consider my family, my life, on, we realized it was more many other regional airlines. and the career I am dedicated complicated than just taking Therefore, management to. Then I will vote the way the best of both contracts.” wanted those two groups that I think provides the best As negotiations continued, brought more in line with the for all of those.” 22 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Bearskin Steady On By Jen Lofquist to labour relations resulted in entered the burning aircraft to ALPA Senior an agreement published at save the only other surviving Communications Specialist the end of 2012 that reduced passenger. Hoffman is con- scheduling inefficiencies sidered a hero by all of those or 50 years, Bearskin and increased flexibility for who know him, including the Airlines has provided the company. The company off-duty Bearskin passenger Fexceptional accessibility responded by providing better service agent he saved. to Ontario and Manitoba by pay and work rules for the flying to 18 destinations as pilots. The agreement was far north as Lynn Lake, Man., reached without any threat and as far south as Kitchener- from either side of a work Waterloo, Ont. From small stoppage or labour action. towns to large cities, Bearskin “It’s about being on the provides both charter and same team,” comments scheduled flights with more Parnham. “We’re thankful than 100 departures each day. our management has placed “Bearskin is something value in retaining pilots. The special,” says Capt. Dan pay and working conditions Parnham, the pilots’ Master achieved in contract No. 5 Executive Council (MEC) have already proven to be Within 30 minutes of the A photo of Flight chairman. “We aren’t flashy, what was needed to retain accident, ALPA resources were 311’s flight crew one we don’t have large, modern experienced pilots at a time mobilized, and many CIRP hour before the tragic aircraft, and we don’t fly when the industry predicts a volunteers were immediately accident. Far left, Capt. to the most glamorous pilot shortage. When manage- dispatched to critical areas Peter Traczuk; third locations. What we have is a ment asks for something, of need. During the next from left, F/O Aniruddh family of tight-knit employees such as scheduling flexibility, few days, the Bearskin fam- Sawant. and management working we know they don’t just want ily pulled together as they together to provide the best to get something without mourned the loss of two regional service possible in a giving. They work as hard as of their own and three of competitive industry.” we do to make our labour- their passengers. Joined by Last year, the pilots final- management relationship a member of management ized a new four-year collective successful.” and a CIRP team leader, bargaining agreement with This relationship has also the MEC held a meeting in management. The agreement saved the company and pilot Winnipeg, Man., where pilots BRS at a Glance was made possible through group a tremendous amount gathered to remember the Pilots joined ALPA: 1997 interest-based negotiations, of manpower and money. victims, share stories, and find (became an ALPA-represented pilot group when CALPA in which both sides look at For more than eight years, strength to carry on. By the merged with ALPA) the issues together and come the pilot group has not filed end of November, a trust fund Number of pilots: 71 up with solutions that benefit a single grievance or held an was established for Traczuk’s Pilot bases: Thunder Bay, Ont.; both the employees and the arbitration. three young children, and a Winnipeg, Man.; Kitchener- company’s business plan. On Nov. 10, 2013, the scholarship fund was named Waterloo, Ont.; and Sioux “We put a lot of effort into Bearskin family was tested in honor of Sawant. Anyone Lookout, Ont. maintaining an open relation- by tragedy. As Flight 311 wishing to contribute to Headquarters: Sioux Lookout, ship with management and approached Red Lake, Ont., either fund should e-mail Ont. recognize that our company the airplane crashed on short [email protected]. Operations: Scheduled and and employees stand to make final. Five of the seven people “In those dark days, charter passenger service far better gains by being aboard, including Capt. Peter we leaned on each other,” Fleet: 18 Metroliners allies,” continues Parnham. Traczuk and F/O Aniruddh says Parnham. “Whenever “We know not every pilot Sawant, died. something like this happens, group or management can Deadheading Bearskin F/O we ask how and why. Those function this way, so we value Keith Hoffman survived and answers will come. It is only the strength it gives our pilot was able to pull himself from by being there for each other group and our airline.” the wreckage. Without consid- that we will emerge from this This give-and-take approach ering his own safety, Hoffman tragedy.” January 2014 Air Line Pilot 23 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 Calm Air Moving Forward By Rusty Ayers been recalled, but we have company can use the same ALPA Senior done some modest hiring.” crews to do these special- Communications Specialist The new agreement took ized fuel flights,” Cowan effect in August and provides notes. “The benefit to our fter being buffeted by continued pay stability for the members is that they have a the winds of change pilot group; improved vaca- set schedule and know when Ain recent years, Mani- tion and sick time; and better their time off will be, which toba-based Calm Air flew into rules surrounding trip drops, enables them to choose the smoother skies in 2013, com- reassignment, reserve, and re- base where they report to pleting a refleeting program, lease times. The contract also and live wherever they want.” bringing back furloughees, changes the seniority system, Cooperation between the and ratifying a new five-year giving “top-of-class” seniority union and the company also contract that provides stabil- preference to new-hire ALPA resulted in a smooth transi- ity and improvements for members or pilots coming tion of aircraft types when pilots and management alike. from Bearskin or other sister Calm Air replaced its fleet Capt. Jeff Jacobs airlines owned of Saab 340 turboprops in at Kiyuk Lake, by the car- late 2012–early 2013 with an ice strip in rier’s holding ATR 42s and 72s. The airline the Northwest company. also flies a single Hawker Territories, Flying out Siddeley HS748 freighter and Canada. of bases in two Dornier D328 jets that Winnipeg and are popular both for medical Thompson, evacuations and scheduled Man., Calm Air passenger service. is an integral As with any new contract, part of the there have been growing Canadian avia- pains as the company and tion network the pilot group adapt to some that makes of the new rules. Like many it possible other properties, the airline for isolated is trying its best to become communities more efficient to remain Calm Air’s 93 pilots rati- in the far north to exist. The profitable amidst increased fied their new agreement in airline transports the sick competition and rising oper- June 2013 by an 86 percent to medical care, ships bulk ating costs, but the outlook CMA at a Glance margin, reaching the agree- petroleum that fuels genera- continues to brighten. Pilots joined ALPA: 1997 ment after a year of planning tors at community electrical For the MEC, the greatest Number of pilots: 93, followed by a short period of plants, and even flies tourists challenge will be to embrace including two furloughed bargaining, according to Capt. to polar bear–watching change as Calm Air continues Operations: Scheduled Dan Cowan, the pilots’ Master expeditions at the edge of to evolve, says Cowan. “We passenger and cargo service Executive Council (MEC) the Hudson Bay. believe that a big part of throughout northern Manitoba and Nunavut, the newest and chairman. A unique part of the what makes Calm Air a great largest territory in Canada, “Both sides were com- contract creates special work place to stay at is that it including destinations along mitted to getting a fair deal rules for pilots who operate offers a lifestyle that many the western shores of Hudson done, and we all believe that’s fuel flights as a means to gain of our pilots enjoy and few Bay and into the high Arctic what happened,” says Cowan. efficiencies for this special- other companies can offer. Pilot bases: Thompson, Man., “We have also had the good ized flying. The rules allow Our goal as a union is to help and Winnipeg, Man. fortune of being able to recall crews to work on an eight- the company as it tries to Headquarters: Thompson, Man. all but two of the furloughed days-on, six-days-off rotation, become more efficient, while Fleet: 1 Hawker Siddeley pilots from last year, and providing the company with also protecting our members HS748, 8 ATR 42s, 3 ATR 72s, the two who haven’t been round-the-clock coverage. and ensuring the contract is and 2 Fairchild Dornier D328 jets recalled have made their own “Instead of putting this out followed so that pilots can choice not to return yet. Not for bid and possibly assigning still feel great about their only have furloughed pilots it to the most junior pilot, the choice to stay here.” 24 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Canadian North MEC Completes 2013 To-do List; Enters Negotiations a Year Early By Kimberly Seitz help new-hire pilots transition is doing really well, and we CNP at a Glance ALPA Senior to the airline. want to capitalize on that Pilots joined ALPA: 2011 Communications Specialist Ticking off another to-do, momentum. Major client Number of pilots: 145 the MEC developed a post- contracts are due in 2014, so Bases: Edmonton and Calgary, he Canadian North accident/-incident checklist to it’s important to have costs Alb. Master Executive Coun- supplement ALPA’s Worldwide finalized to reflect long-term Headquarters: Yellowknife, NT, Tcil (MEC) completed Accident Hotline “orange” labor peace as the company with offices in Edmonton, Alb. key items on its 2013 to-do card. The MEC identified the prepares those bids.” Operations: Scheduled flights list thanks to the hard work of specific issues endemic to The company’s imple- and cargo services throughout Nunavut and the Northwest its pilot volunteers. And de- Canadian North operations mentation of a new software Territories, as well as charter spite the rigors of piloting in and developed a reference program, Merlot.aero, which operations throughout Canada unpredictable winter weather tool that addresses the optimizes daily airplane and and the United States conditions and serving re- airline’s fleet and the nuances crew usage, won’t be fully Fleet: B-737-200s, B-737- mote and rugged northern of flying in Nunavut and the functional until spring 2014, 300s, and Dash 8-100s Canadian territories, pilot Northwest Territories, which so the MEC is using this volunteers also opened nego- can include landings and opportunity to negotiate the tiations a year early. takeoffs on remote ice and inclusion of a preferential “To say that 2013 was a gravel runways in the Arctic. bidding system into the busy year is an understate- Developing a functional program. “We ment,” says Capt. Chris MEC website was another have tradi- Kampen, the pilots’ MEC completed item from last tionally only chairman, reflecting on the year’s list. “Our website been able to pilot group’s 2013 accom- provides access to our ALPA bid our days plishments before turning his grievance DTS site,” says Capt. off,” Kampen focus to 2014. Olivier Goudreau, the pilot explains, “so A key quality-of-life en- group’s MEC vice chairman. it would be a hancement that took flight in “The MEC wanted to make huge accom- 2013 is a pilot porting system, it as easy as possible for the plishment to designed to build lines that pilots to file a grievance when implement a begin and/or end in a pilot’s they feel their contract work program that home city rather than trans- rules have been violated.” provides more porting pilots to a starting As for the airline, Canadian flexibility in base. “Launching a pilot port- North increased its fleet size bidding our ing system out of Yellowknife, to seven 737-200s and seven days off and Ottawa, and Iqaluit proved to B-737-300s, with two more the types of Capt. Olivier Goudreau, left, and Capt. Dale Clarke, be a great way to attract and -300s scheduled for delivery. flying, thus right. retain pilots who live in differ- Canadian North will be the allowing our ent cities,” Kampen adds. first operator of a B-737-300 pilots more time with their Establishing a Professional quick-change airplane in families and loved ones.” Standards Committee was which the seats are palleted The Canadian North MEC another priority for the and installed with a moveable may be one of the new kids MEC in 2013. The commit- bulkhead, giving the airplane on the ALPA block, but it’s tee provides assistance to more versatility transporting achieved great success work- Canadian North pilots who passengers and cargo. The ing with ALPA’s professional face additional stressors flying -300s move 70,000 passen- staff to ensure that all of in extremely challenging gers a month. ALPA’s resources are tailored conditions. A Pilot Assistance As 2013 wound down, the to meet the pilot group’s Committee is also now pilots entered interest-based needs. And as 2014 progress- staffed and should be fully negotiations a full year es, the MEC is confident that functional later in 2014. The ahead of schedule. “It just it will be checking more and MEC also created a much- made sense strategically,” more off its to-do list—one needed Mentor Committee to Kampen says. “The company item at a time. January 2014 Air Line Pilot 25 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 CanJet Pilots Cautiously Optimistic About the Future

CJA at a Glance By Tawnya Burket the new contract concluded unity building (PUB) events. Pilots joined ALPA: 2006 ALPA Communications on May 20, with 80 percent In March, the MEC held a Number of pilots: 134 Specialist of eligible pilots voting. Of PUB event in each hub city. Operations: Provides those casting ballots, 87 “It was an excellent way subcontracting services to ne word can sum up percent voted in favor of the to connect with the pilots vacation charter airlines the feelings and over- agreement. and discuss the hot topic of Fleet: 5 B-737-800s and 7 all outlook of the Can- “After negotiations ongoing negotiations at the B-737-800s leased during high O Jet pilots in 2013—cautious. wrapped up, we pieced time,” notes Sirros. The MEC season The year began with tense together the road shows and recently hosted three holiday contract negotiations continu- ratification process rather PUB nights in November ing from 2012. And the year quickly, allowing the entire in Montreal, Toronto, and ended with the prospect of process to successfully con- Halifax. “We are able to talk future flying in clude in less than a month,” openly to the pilots during question as Can- says Capt. Alex Sirros, the PUB nights in a relaxed Jet’s contract pilots’ MEC chairman. “The atmosphere, which allow with its main pilots are essentially pleased them to ask questions and customer is set with the contract as there bond with each other and to expire in May are improvements in almost their union representatives,” 2014. all sections with gains for Sirros says. For the first everyone.” Once CanJet Another hot topic for four months of implemented the new con- CanJet and other Canadian 2013, contract tract, both the pilots and the ALPA-represented pilots is negotiations company have been comply- foreign pilots operating in kept the pilots ing with its terms, with no Canada. ALPA and ALPA’s waiting patiently real disagreements regarding Canada Board have long for their negotia- new contract language. advocated for reforming the tors and Master Unfortunately, the success Temporary Foreign Worker Executive of achieving a new five-year Program (TFWP) to ensure Council (MEC) to contract with gains all around that Canadian airline pilots come to them was short-lived. Transat A.T., benefit from available airline with a ratifiable Canada’s holiday travel industry jobs. In mid-2013,

P hoto by C agreement. leader, announced in May changes were implemented Almost a year 2013 that when its charter to the TFWP that should grad-

apt and a half after contract with CanJet expires ually eliminate the need for . D an P direct nego- in May 2014, it will not be foreign flight crews. Because arnham (B earskin ) tiations began, renewed. Management has of these policy changes and a tentative been seeking all available the process now in place, agreement was opportunities to obtain flying CanJet is moving away from reached with after May but had not an- hiring pilots from outside Capts. Alex Sirros, MEC chairman, and Jon management on nounced any definitive plans the border and is giving fur- Mason, MEC vice chairman, attend the dinner at May 2. The MEC as this issue goes to press. loughed Canadian pilots the the Canada Aviation and Space Museum after and negotiators “As 2013 came to a close, opportunity for employment, the Group C Caucus meeting for Canadian ALPA planned and be- we had hoped to hear more even if just seasonal, in their pilot leaders in Ottawa, Ont., on Oct. 2, 2013. gan educational concrete commitments from native country. road shows management regarding work Although their flying almost immediately. They beyond May 2014. While commitments are uncertain visited all four pilot bases in talks seem promising, work is beyond May, the CanJet pilots Toronto, Ont.; Montreal, Que.; yet unsecured,” Sirros says. are focused on the future Halifax, N.S.; and Vancouver, To keep the pilots in- and remain hopeful that B.C., making direct contact formed about hot topics like blue skies are on the horizon. with close to 60 percent of future flying and contract “We’re cautiously optimistic the pilot group at these face- issues, the MEC has been that we’ll be flying for many to-face meetings. Voting for holding very successful pilot years to come,” says Sirros. 26 Air Line Pilot January 2014 CommutAir Coping With Change By Rusty Ayers abandon its old pencil-and- a direct pathway to the right ALPA Senior paper scheduling method in seat of a CommutAir Dash 8. Communications Specialist favor of an electronic prefer- “We realize that ential bidding system (PBS). CommutAir is only a tran- reparing to reopen con- After discussing the sitional job for most of us tract negotiations and possible pros and cons of a here, and it’s exciting and Padapting to the FAA’s potential PBS for a number rewarding to see our friends new first officer qualification of months, ALPA leaders were and training rules are high on prepared when management the CommutAir pilots’ 2014 announced it would imple- to-do list. ment PBS in early 2014. A With the implementation PBS letter of agreement was of the new rules, the United negotiated in short order Express carrier has had to that will include a number of fundamentally change how it improvements for CommutAir does business with its pilots pilots. regarding hiring, training, and A major goal for the pilots scheduling. Retaining quali- in 2014 is preparing to reopen fied pilots, already a challenge contract negotiations. They at entry-level airlines like ratified their first-ever ALPA CommutAir, is also becoming contract in late 2011, and increasingly difficult as the the four-year deal becomes Former Vice Chairman F/O Tom Bishop, mainline carriers ramp up amendable in 2015. While who left CommutAir in November 2013 their hiring. the 2011 contract greatly to fly for Compass Airlines. “As the industry has improved pilot pay and work move on to bigger and better adapted, we’ve adapted as rules, the group still lags things,” Bassett acknowledges. well to make sure that our behind some of its peers, and “But before they leave, our pilots remain professionally moving nearer to the industry mission is to make our outgo- qualified, properly trained, standard remains a priority. ing pilots not just professional and in compliance with all One ongoing item of aviators but dedicated union the new FAA regulations,” says concern is unlikely to change: members as well.” Capt. John Bassett, the pilots’ the constant turnover of line Privately held with just 21 Master Executive Council pilots and union leaders as Dash 8-Q200/300 turboprops (MEC) chairman. members accrue enough time and a little more than 200 CMT a Glance “We recognized right away and experience to move on to pilots, CommutAir is among Founded: 1989 that some of our newer first larger carriers. In the past year, the smallest airlines in the Number of pilots: officers were in danger of be- the MEC has seen a string of United Express system. It also Approximately 210 ing grounded when the 1,500- elected representatives and is among a handful of re- Pilots joined ALPA: 2008 hour rule took effect, so we key committee chairmen gional airlines whose fortunes Headquarters: South negotiated a short-term letter leave the airline for JetBlue, are tied to a single mainline Burlington, Vt., with an operations headquarters in of agreement that allowed US Airways, Compass, and partner: first Continental North Olmsted, Ohio our lower-time pilots to gain elsewhere. and now United. But the Pilot bases: Cleveland, Ohio; extra hours so that they could Recognizing that the carrier continues to occupy a Newark, N.J.; and Dulles, Va. build time quickly,” Bassett tougher FAA training and profitable niche in the United Operations: CommutAir flies to says. “We were able to qualify flight-hour requirements may system, flying to smaller more than 27 cities in 14 U.S. every one of our pilots before make it harder to find new destinations ringing United’s states and Canadian provinces the August deadline.” hires, CommutAir has entered CLE, EWR, and IAD hubs under a capacity-purchase Like other carriers, into agreements with several at a lower cost than larger agreement with United Airlines CommutAir is also coping flight school programs in Ohio competitors flying regional Fleet: 16 37-seat Dash with the implementation of and Florida to ensure a steady jets can offer. Recognizing the 8-Q200s and 5 50-seat Dash 8-Q300s the new FAR Part 117 flight- stream of incoming first airline’s value, in 2013 United and duty-time rules. The new officers. Students who gradu- renewed its capacity-purchase rule is partially responsible ate from these programs and agreement with CommutAir for the company’s decision to meet hiring standards have for another five years. January 2014 Air Line Pilot 27 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 Compass Bargaining Outside the Box By Rusty Ayers more, preparation prior to “Instead of being trapped ALPA Senior opening talks. It forces you to for five years while going Communications Specialist be flexible and decide what through Section 6, our really matters most to your pilots can start accruing that or the approximately group, and it also works bet- increased pay and those 500 Compass Airlines ter if your contract is below benefits right away, and the Fpilots, thinking outside industry average,” says Capt. company wins by having the box has paid dividends Dan Schultz, the Compass stability and fixed, known Master Executive pilot costs,” Schultz says. “We Council (MEC) believe it’s a good deal for chairman. everyone. In fact, we believe The Northwest our new contract helps to Airlines MEC had raise the bar for other fee-for- specified med-arb departure airlines out there. bargaining for its We think it’s a major win for yet-to-be-created our segment of the industry.” subsidiary Compass With the goal of a new under a letter of contract achieved, the pilot agreement ratified group is moving on to other in 2006 and agreed challenges. More than 300 to continue the pilots will be leaving the process for the next airline in the next two and round of bargain- a half years to fly for Delta, ing. The process thanks to a flow-up agree- A Compass E175 at New York’s was designed to ment renegotiated when LaGuardia Airport overlooks a Delta achieve a new contract Delta sold Compass to Trans A320. in 330 days or less, and States Holdings in 2010. CPZ at a Glance at the bargaining table. In that’s exactly how it worked The flow-up guarantees Founded: Compass Airlines November 2013, the pilots for the Compass group. rapid advancement for the was created as a Northwest announced that they had After opening negotiations pilots not eligible to move Airlines subsidiary and began operations on May 2, 2007 come to an agreement with in December 2012, the par- to Delta, but the MEC has Pilots joined ALPA: 2007 the company on a new six- ties bargained directly until recognized that losing so year contract in less than June 2013. Then mediator- many experienced pilot Number of pilots: Approximately 500 a year by using mediation- arbitrator Josh Javits joined volunteers will create a chal- Management: First owned arbitration (med-arb) rather the talks, helping the parties lenge in future years. This has as a wholly owned subsidiary than the traditional Railway reach a tentative agree- sparked an aggressive drive of Northwest and then Delta, Labor Act’s Section 6 bargain- ment on almost every item to recruit new volunteers. Compass is now owned by ing process. of the new contract. The “Having the flow-up is a nice Trans States Holdings, Inc., The difference between seven remaining items were problem to have, but we’re which runs it separately from its other airlines, Trans States med-arb and Section 6 arbitrated before Javits, who losing many highly qualified and GoJet couldn’t be clearer when had the authority to issue people, including some of our Operations: More than 190 comparing the process at an arbitration award based officers and key committee flights daily to 57 destinations Compass to traditional ne- on industry averages at eight chairmen,” says Schultz. throughout the United gotiations. While it can take comparable peer airlines. And what about that next States and Canada as Delta some groups five years or The final, binding award was Compass contract? The MEC Connection even longer to reach a tenta- issued on November 18. ensured that the same suc- Pilot bases: Minneapolis–St. tive agreement (TA) under The new six-year agree- cessful bargaining blueprint Paul, Minn., and Detroit, Mich. The company will open a Los Section 6, Compass pilots got ment includes pay raises in will be used the next time Angeles, Calif., domicile in a TA with management in less each year of the contract, around, writing contract lan- February than a year. increased vacation time, guage that requires the union Headquarters: Minneapolis, “Med-arb prevents either higher sick-time accrual, and the company to use med- Minn. side from dragging out the increased per diem, deadhead arb again when the agreement Fleet: 6 Embraer 170s and 36 process, but it requires a lot and minimum day pay, and becomes amendable at the Embraer E175s of focus and as much, if not many other improvements. end of this decade. 28 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Delta Pilots and Management Achieve Gains by Working Together By Kelly Regus increase the share of all Delta ALPA Senior domestic flying operated Communications Specialist on Delta narrowbodies and ensures new international he 11,500 Delta pilots flying opportunities for the make up 23 percent of pilot group. T ALPA’s members and The MEC continues to since July 2012 have been work to improve the pilots’ A view of the operating under an industry- pay and working conditions old Terminal 3 at leading contract, due in large whenever opportunities John F. Kennedy part to the commitment of present themselves. Since International the pilots’ Master Executive the conclusion of Section 6 ) F/O C hris N evins (D elta by P hoto Airport. Council (MEC) to seize oppor- negotiations, letters of agree- the necessity for training if a tunities to negotiate amend- ment that provide scheduling report is pure sole-source and ments to the pilots’ working enhancements as well as would otherwise be unknown agreement (PWA) six months protections for Pacific flying to the company or the FAA. before its amendable date. and the Virgin Atlantic joint Significantly, the formal train- The MEC agreed to an venture have been achieved. ing rate has dropped to less expedited negotiating The MEC has also placed than one percent. process that culminated in a significant focus on safe Automation addiction and an agreement in less than flying operations through the loss of control. Automation four months. The agreement, Central Air Safety Committee addiction and loss of control which included three pay (CASC), which is composed are significant safety con- increases in the past 18 of more than 200 volunteers cerns. The CASC continues months, provides industry- who serve on 11 safety to advocate for a unified leading pay rates, profit subcommittees. In 2013, the effort to teach specific man- DAL at a Glance sharing, and retirement plan CASC was highly engaged ual flying skill maintenance Number of pilots: 11,704 improvements. It also facili- locally, nationally, and globally. exercises. Joint ventures and alliances: tated Delta’s acquisition of a This past year, Delta man- Unstable approaches with SkyTeam Alliance and joint fleet of 88 B-717s. The first agement invited the CASC to no go-arounds. The CASC ventures with Air France–KLM– of these was put into opera- join its Data Analysis Group, is studying other airlines’ Alitalia, Virgin Australia, and Virgin Atlantic tions this past fall. B-717s will Threat Management Group, efforts that have successfully continue to be added to the and Standard Text Oversight reduced unstable approaches Operations: Delta and its Connection carriers fly to more fleet through 2015. In addi- while improving go-around Committee. The pilots are than 330 destinations in 65 tion, three B-737-900s per also co-sponsoring with Delta compliance rates to better countries on 6 continents month are being delivered Flight Ops a year-long Active understand what could be Pilot bases: Atlanta, Ga.; to Delta, and the company Pilot Monitoring Workshop successfully applied at Delta. Cincinnati, Ohio; Detroit, recently announced an order to produce recommendations The joint efforts of the Mich.; Los Angeles, Calif.; for 30 A321s and 10 A330s. for improving how to identify, MEC, the CASC, and Delta’s Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minn.; New York City; Salt Lake City, The airline has announced train, and evaluate critical flight safety team have Utah; and Seattle, Wash. that it will hire 300 pilots, but pilot monitoring skills. produced a safety culture Hub cities: Amsterdam; in all likelihood that number and record that are the envy Three areas of the pilots’ Atlanta, Ga.; Cincinnati, Ohio; will be much higher. The CASC initiatives have seen of the airline industry. This Detroit, Mich.; Minneapolis–St. most recent advance entitle- marked involvement: record is due in large measure Paul, Minn.; New York–JFK; ments bids have provided Aviation Safety Action to the competence and Salt Lake City, Utah; and for new captain positions, Program. Knowing that the professionalism of Delta line Tokyo–Narita and prospects are favorable prospect of formal simulator pilots, who have made it their Headquarters: Atlanta, Ga. for substantial upward or flight training can have mission to see that the ap- Fleet: More than 700 mainline movement for Delta pilots. a negative effect on pilots’ proximately 160 million pas- airplanes consisting of A319s, A320s, A330s, B-717s, B-737s, These prospects are further sengers who boarded a Delta willingness to report errors, B-747s, B-757s, B-767s, enhanced by the scope pro- the CASC, the FAA, and Delta airplane in 2013 arrived safely B-777s, DC-9s, MD-88s, and tections in the 2012 PWA that have agreed to carefully weigh at their destinations. MD-90s January 2014 Air Line Pilot 29 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 Endeavor Air Hopeful Signs After a Difficult Year By Kimberly Seitz hiring for a set number of new status representatives in ALPA Senior Pinnacle pilots at Delta Air place, the MEC emerged from Communications Specialist Lines under a Streamlined the October meeting “with Selection Process (SSP). a strategic focus on recover- et’s recap the past 365 Exiting bankruptcy in ing compensation lost in days: As 2012 came May 2013 as a wholly owned bankruptcy, improving career Lto a close, the pilots at subsidiary of Delta, Pinnacle’s progression for our pilots, and then-Pinnacle, now Endeavor new management team improving quality of life while Air, were mired in bankruptcy. moved its headquarters we’re here,” says Allen. In 2013, the pilots helped from Memphis, Tenn., to The MEC is investigating save the company by ratify- Minneapolis, Minn., and two new initiatives, the first ing a painful, but necessary, changed the airline’s name to replace crew room bulletin restructuring agreement; got from Pinnacle Airlines to boards with LCD monitors Endeavor Air. for more effective and up-to- Although the imminent date communications with threat of bankruptcy passed the Endeavor pilots and the in January 2013, the Endeavor second to bring application, pilots still faced numerous résumé, and interview-

P hoto provided by E ndeavor A ir challenges and upheaval as preparation seminars to the the year of change unfolded: domiciles to “give our pilots • The MEC renewed its focus who wish to move on every on a grievance resolution advantage,” Allen says. process to address the Endeavor pilots who were backlog of more than 1,000 offered jobs at Delta under pilot grievances accumu- the SSP along with premerger New CRJ900 at new management along with lated during the bank- Mesaba pilots eligible to flow Bombardier’s Montréal– a name change; voted in new ruptcy, and worked with to Delta under a sunset agree- Mirabel facility destined for Master Executive Council the company to designate ment will begin class at Delta delivery to Endeavor Air. (MEC) officers; and are finally company-funded ALPA on January 13. on a path of recovery as they duty pilots to work with “Given our improving op- move into 2014. Crew Scheduling in the erational reliability, competi- “The pilots were given a Operations Control Center tive cost structure, and our stark choice between holding to reduce and prevent relatively young CRJ200 fleet, on to our current contract contract violations. Endeavor is well positioned to and seeing Pinnacle wound • The Atlanta and Memphis retain a significant portion of PCL at a Glance down or accepting drastic domiciles were closed. our current 50-seat airplanes Pilots joined ALPA: 1988 cuts to our pay and work • The company began to for the foreseeable future,” (as Express Airlines I before it rules to save the airline and retire its CRJ200s in August. notes Ryan Gumm, Endeavor changed its name to Pinnacle in 2002 and Endeavor Air in the jobs of employees in all • The company received Air CEO. 2013); purchased Colgan Air areas of Pinnacle’s opera- the first of 40 additional Gumm’s statement is seen in 2007; purchased Mesaba tions,” says Capt. Tom Wychor, CRJ900s the airline is ex- as a positive indication that Airlines in 2010 the former MEC chairman. pected to have on the prop- the CRJ200 fleet may not be Number of pilots: 2,000 The seven-year deal included erty by the end of 2014. retired at Endeavor, and the Operations: Up to 1,000 daily pay cuts, longevity caps, During the October meet- company has announced flights as Delta Connection to increased health-care costs, ing conducted in Herndon, plans to hire 300–400 pilots more than 100 cities across and a reduction in retirement Va., the MEC held its officer in 2014, with classes sched- the United States and Canada benefits. elections, installing Capt. uled to begin on January 6. Pilot domiciles: Detroit, Mich.; Minneapolis, Minn.; and New In recognition of the Jonathan Allen as chairman While the Endeavor Air York’s JFK magnitude of the pilots’ and Capt. Michael Yoder pilots endured much chaos Headquarters: Minneapolis, concessions, the contract as vice chairman and re- as a result of the bankruptcy, Minn. also included a bridge electing F/O Nathan Hillard as the changes they have made Fleet: 120 Canadair CRJ200s agreement that provided a secretary-treasurer. have provided them a solid and 50 CRJ900s one-time cash payment (paid With new officers elected, foundation from which to in May 2013) and guaranteed domicile shifts finalized, and advance their careers. 30 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Evergreen Questions Remain Regarding the Airline’s Survival By Tawnya Burket to question the survivability was notified of mass layoffs ALPA Communications of their airline, based on the and the airline’s closure. Specialist company’s debt load. Management later contra- “It’s hard to go to work, dicted this news, stating he year 2013 did not sometimes on the other side that the “executive team begin with a promise of the world, and not know continues to work diligently T of blue skies for Ever- if the airline will shut down to look for longer-term solu- green International Airlines’ or if you’re going to get paid tions to the current issues flightcrew members. As 2012 for your services,” says Capt. that cause interruptions to ended, the cockpit crews James Touchette, chairman our operations” and that faced some harsh realities— of the crewmembers’ Master rumors in the news media a failed tentative collec- Executive Council (MEC). of Evergreen ceasing opera- tive bargaining agreement Last summer, a Yamhill tions were false. that lacked enhancements County judge in McMinnville, Evergreen management crewmembers desired, the Ore., granted judgments met with lienholders on grounding of the airline’s against the airline for overdue Dec. 3, 2013, to determine B-747 classic fleet, and more contributions to the pilots’ the company’s future, but a furloughs. The National pension plans. Evergreen decision has not been made Mediation Board recessed signed two confessions of public as this issue goes to ) furloughed , A ndo (E vergreen PFE H iroshi by P hoto negotiations in 2013, but judgments for the pension press. All of the airplanes are An aerial view of Evergreen’s the crewmembers remained contributions for 2011 and parked, indicating there are Wings & Waves Waterpark, an dedicated, continuing to fly 2012. The first payment of no revenue flights. However, indoor, all-season educational for their unstable, financially $744,651 went unpaid in May, the airline is still in existence, waterpark that includes 10 burdened company. as did the second payment of maintaining its certificate of waterslides, a wave pool, and In 2013, management $680,359 due August 15. operations per the FAA’s FAR children’s museum—with a continued efforts to clear the Crewmembers experienced Part 119, which states that a massive Evergreen International financial storm brewing for further negative effects of the minimum staff of five shall B-747-100 atop the building. years at the airline. Evergreen company’s financial situation be maintained for up to a The waterpark is a separate began transition training in the form of late paychecks, 90-day period from the time entity from the airline and of pilots on the company’s having their own voluntary an airline’s last airplane is should remain after the airline’s B-747-400s. The training contributions to 401(k) plans parked—in Evergreen’s case, closure. was intermittent, however, delayed, and being required early December. as Evergreen failed to make to use personal credit cards at Since announcement regular payments to United crew hotels across the globe of the shutdown, the MEC EIA at a Glance for the training facility it because of company cards has remained in constant Flightcrew members joined contracted to train crews in being declined. contact with ALPA’s national ALPA: 2007 Denver, Colo. In November, Evergreen officers and staff to assist the Number of flightcrew With the decline in cargo informed its employees of its crewmembers. members: 187 (All crewmembers on furlough) business and U.S. military plan to cease operations; the The MEC prepared its Headquarters: McMinnville, operations in the Middle East last scheduled flight, which crewmembers for the ensu- Ore. winding down, Evergreen’s fly- had two rotations, landed ing shutdown by informing Pilot base: New York (JFK) ing was diminishing. As debt at Travis Air Force Base in them of resources available Operations: With a fleet of piled up, Evergreen’s parent California on Nov. 29, 2013, through ALPA—including the parked B-747s, Evergreen company sold its helicopter and on December 3. Furloughed Pilots Support specialized in charter and division and reaffirmed its “With the turmoil we’ve en- program—and prompting contract freighter operations commitment to its airline dured over the past years and them to update résumés, around the globe business. Erickson Air-Crane months, I’m sure that we have prepare electronic portfolios, bought Evergreen Helicopters, all anticipated the day would and acquire training records Inc., valued at $276.3 million, come when we would hear from Evergreen headquarters in March. that Evergreen will shut down,” before the possible closure. However, even with fund- Touchette told crewmembers As 2014 begins, it is now ing from the sale, conditions after hearing the news. more obvious that the end of at Evergreen continued to News reports also verified an airline that operated for 38 weaken. Crewmembers began that the state of Oregon years will become a reality. January 2014 Air Line Pilot 31 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 ExpressJet Pilots Reach Tentative Agreement By Lydia Jakub leading contract for the Joint Negotiating Committee ALPA Senior fee-for-departure airlines. It is (JNC), composed of pilot Communications Specialist also, however, a concessionary negotiators from ExpressJet agreement in that there were and Atlantic Southeast, and xpressJet pilots are cur- some changes to the pilots’ representatives from both XJT at a Glance rently faced with making work rules and benefits in MECs conducted road shows Pilots joined ALPA: 2004 Ea tough decision: voting order to reduce costs. The two in all of the pilot bases to Number of pilots: More than on a tentative joint collective pilot groups’ leaders believe educate pilots about the 2,800 bargaining agreement (JCBA). that this difficult decision will agreement. They were also Operations: Flies as United This agreement, if ratified, help stabilize the company in the crew rooms and con- Express to 42 states plus would be the leading pilot so that it can better compete ducted all-pilot conference destinations in Canada, contract in the regional airline and win new business. calls. Voting opened in mid- Mexico, and the Caribbean industry. It would also be a Airline performance is also December and will close on Pilot bases: Chicago, Ill.; significant step toward com- key. It has suffered since the January 14. The informational Cleveland, Ohio; Denver, pleting the merger of Express- merger, and efforts are being blitz will continue throughout Colo.; Houston, Tex.; Kansas City, Mo.; Newark, N.J.; and Jet and Atlantic Southeast that made to rebuild operational the voting period to ensure Washington, D.C. began in 2010. integrity. While weather, main- that every pilot has an oppor- Headquarters: Atlanta, Ga. “This was a difficult nego- tenance, and other reasons tunity to ask questions about Fleet: 251 airplanes, including tiations process,” says Capt. certainly play a role, the root the agreement and provide ERJ 135s and ERJ 145s Chris Grable, chairman of cause for this degradation feedback. the ExpressJet pilots’ Master is that the company is run- The ultimate decision on Executive Council (MEC). ning two separate airlines. this tentative JCBA is in the “The landscape has changed Management is working to hands of the pilot group. drastically over the last three address these issues, and Many of the provisions, if it years, affecting the tone at progress is being made; how- is ratified, would be effective the bargaining table and the ever, much work lies ahead February 1. There are, however, direction of the agreement. to get the operation running some items contained within As we fought to secure smoothly. the agreement that would improvements, the company SkyWest, Inc., which owns either be phased in (such as a sought concessions. With ExpressJet/Atlantic Southeast preferential bidding system) or the JCBA, we were able and SkyWest Airlines, has out (such as the defined con- to protect much of our been making moves to refleet tribution plan) over a specified pay and quality of life its operations as mainline period of time. and help position the carriers further reduce their If the agreement is not company for success.” 50-seat capacity. In mid-2013, ratified by a majority vote, per In November 2013, SkyWest unveiled a huge air- the Transition and Process the ExpressJet and craft order of approximately Agreement, the parties would Atlantic Southeast MECs 600 new jets, totaling nearly then enter into mediated dis- each approved the $22 billion. It plans to be the cussions under the National tentative JCBA to go out launch customer for the 80- Mediation Board. It is un- to the combined mem- seat Embraer 175-E2 and take certain at this time whether From left to right, F/O Will bership for ratification. This delivery of existing Embraer the pilots would be starting Blackburn, Capt. Eric Easterlin decision was not made lightly. 175s later this year. SkyWest’s from the failed agreement or (now a United first officer), The MECs analyzed the JCBA, strategy includes running two if management would seek Capt. Brian Rosenstein, Capt. existing pilot contracts, and profitable airlines so that it deeper concessions. David Oeswein, and Capt. market trends. can place aircraft based on “ExpressJet has a proud his- Andrew Olson at an ALPA The JCBA is a top-tier geographical demand. tory, and our pilots are some leadership event on Capitol Hill. regional pilot contract. While Although there are no of the best in the business. We other agreements have some guarantees for larger aircraft remain committed to building sections that are better, or new business, the JCBA, if a successful super-regional air- the overall compensation, ratified, would position the line that benefits all stakehold- quality-of-life protections, and pilot group for maximum ers—partners, passengers, employee benefits within the success. investors, and employees,” JCBA make it an industry- In December 2013, the concludes Grable. 32 Air Line Pilot January 2014 FedEx Express Pilots Unified in Obtaining New Contract

By Courtney Bland engaged with FedEx manage- of enhanced communication ALPA Communications ment in a bargaining profile among the MEC, the officers, Specialist that met the original intent and our committee structure. of the Railway Labor Act. We If we had not decided to n a year dominated by reached a short-term agree- improve that communication, Section 6 bargaining, the ment contract with a few I’m not sure that we would IFedEx Express Master Ex- significant improvements and have achieved as much,” ecutive Council (MEC) saw agreed to the interim discus- Stratton says. in 2013 the continuation of sion model,” says Stratton. As the FedEx pilots move internal improvements es- “We agreed to the ongoing forward into 2014, obtaining sential to the MEC’s strategic process of interim discussions an industry-leading contract is plan. “Our strategic plan to minimize our next round at the forefront of their goals. hinges on the development of Section 6 bargaining.” “The time for a contract is of our communication abili- Thus far, the decision to now. Our negotiators have ties and maintaining internal engage in interim discussions already reached agreement cohesiveness through regular has paid off. In April 2013, the on the core issues that need contact and reporting,” says FedEx pilots ratified a letter to be resolved. Our team— Capt. Scott Stratton, the pilots’ of agreement concerning the the pilots and their families, MEC chairman. “We were the MEC, the officers, the successful in 2013 because volunteer structure, and we substantially improved in ALPA staff—are unified. I am both these areas. As an orga- convinced that the strength nization, we realize that our of that unity will bring us a strength lies in communica- proper agreement in 2014,” tion on several levels.” says Stratton. The MEC spent the year The 4,353 FedEx Express refining its ability to com- pilots are spread across municate with the pilots. It the globe, represented by used professionally produced introduction of B-767s; much seven councils located in videos, a revitalized pilot- of the progress toward that three domiciles as well as to-pilot network, accessible agreement occurred in 2012 pilots assigned to foreign duty in-person meetings, and under the interim discussion in Hong Kong and Cologne, interactive web technology. model. Of the pilots voting, Germany. Understanding the The pilots responded with 87 percent supported the communications challenges regular feedback and support. agreement. Later in 2013, the that this global group faces, FDX at a Glance “There is nothing more im- MEC reached an agreement the MEC continues to engage Pilots joined ALPA: June portant than communication with management concerning its members through a variety 1993–1996; rejoined ALPA in June 2002 with the pilots. No matter the some significant foreign duty of communication methods First ALPA contract: expertise that our volunteers assignment (FDA) ongoing designed to better reach pilots, October 2006 bring, the goals come from implementation measures including a revamped website, Number of flightcrew the pilots. Without effective that provided improved ben- interactive conference and members: 4,353 communication with the efits to FDA-based pilots. video calls, video messages, Headquarters: Memphis, Tenn. pilots, we would be nowhere,” “In a matter of months, we e-mails, and text notification. Fleet: 91 B-757s, 3 B-767s, 23 Stratton acknowledges. reached two agreements that With more than 375 B-777s, 71 A300s, 30 A310s, The year started with the significantly aided our pilots, airports served worldwide, the 63 MD-10s, and 64 MD-11s exchange of Section 6 open- but we did it as we negoti- airline has an extensive and ers after almost two years of ated through other Section 6 varied fleet. The pilots deliver work as part of the interim issues. Needless to say, we are approximately 3.9 million discussion model agreed to proud of these achievements. packages and 11 million in the pilots’ 2010 contract I attribute our success to hard pounds of freight daily to agreement. “In 2010, we work, unity, and MEC support. more than 220 countries and elected to divest from histori- I think the MEC support was territories, including every ad- cal negotiating processes and significant, in part, because dress in the United States.

January 2014 Air Line Pilot 33 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 First Air Regaining Altitude By Rusty Ayers The group was a charter carry it out has paid big divi- ALPA Senior member of the President’s dends for us, not just with the Communications Specialist Committee for Remote contract but in other areas Operations (PCRO), formed of management as well,” says FAB at a Glance fter several years of in 2012 to push for safety Black. Founded: In 1946 as Bradley being buffeted by trag- improvements at rugged In July, the same month Air Service, now wholly edy and uncertainty, northern airstrips, many of that the contract was final- owned by the Inuit people of A Quebec through the Makivik First Air is now on track to which have unpaved runways ized, First Air announced a Corporation strengthen its status as the and few if any landing aids. big new freight customer, Number of crewmembers: 142 “Airline of the North,” with a Black chairs the PCRO. Canada’s famed North West Pilots joined ALPA: 2008 new CEO, a new pilot agree- The pilots’ greatest accom- Company. Associated with ment, new airplanes, and a plishment in 2013 was finally the frontier since it began Pilot bases: Ottawa, Ont.; Yellowknife, NT; Iqaluit, NU; and big new freight contract with completing a new contract, selling supplies and equip- Edmonton, Alb. one of Canada’s most historic the first negotiated by ALPA ment to fur traders in 1779, Headquarters: Kanata, Ont. companies. since the former First Air the North West Company Operations: Provides “Like all the northern Pilots Association (FAPA) has grown into one of the scheduled passenger and carriers, our airline has been merged with the Association largest shippers in the Arctic. cargo service between 30 affected by the economic five years ago. The talks took It hired First Air to deliver northern communities plus downturn. But we accom- three years, with the bulk of food and other cargo to its charter service worldwide plished a lot in 2013, and it’s the new agreement negoti- stores in remote communities Fleet: 7 B-737-200s (four fair to say we believe we’ve ated directly between the in the Northwest Territories, combi), 3 B-737-400s (two combi, 1 passenger), 1 B-767F, turned the corner and are pilots and the company with Nunavut, and Nunavik. 9 ATR 42-300s, 2 ATR 72-212s looking forward to the new a handful of remaining items Last summer, the airline (all combi), and 2 Lockheed year,” says Capt. Peter Black, decided by an arbitrator. also acquired three more L-382 Hercules the pilots’ Master Executive The five-year agreement modern, fuel-efficient Council (MEC) chairman. is retroactive to 2010 and B-737-400s. Two have been Offering scheduled service will become amendable in retrofitted as combis to to some of the most remote 2015. In addition to a signing carry a mix of passengers and bonus, pilots will palleted cargo, while the third receive raises total- remains in an all-passenger ing more than five configuration. percent over the The new business and ex- duration of the deal. panded fleet are particularly The agreement also welcome since management includes improve- spent much of the previous ments to vacation year trying unsuccessfully to and reserve, a new sell the airline. meal allowance, and In October, the MEC higher living al- concluded its 2013 “FABulous lowances for crew- Flying” calendar campaign to members located in raise money for the families P hoto by M att M c C ullagh expensive far north- of First Air Flight 6560 ern communities. crewmembers. Thanks to Black credits new donations and contributions First Air CEO Brock from ALPA national officers, Friesen with break- the Canada Board, the Alaska A First Air ATR 42 taxies ing the contract and Jazz MECs, and individual for takeoff at Baker Lake, and inhospitable places on deadlock. Before Friesen’s pilots across North America, Ont. the planet, First Air provides arrival, the airline had seen a the campaign raised more a lifeline to a few dozen revolving door of CEOs, COOs, than $17,000 and each of the communities scattered across and other executives. young children who lost a par- the Canadian Arctic and also “Having the continuity of ent in the accident received flies cargo charters around a single leader with a defined almost $2,500 for their future the world. plan and the authority to education. 34 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Hawaiian Collaboration Fuels Expansion By Rusty Ayers new narrowbody airplanes. time rules. The MEC held ALPA Senior Soon after, the airline ordered a series of flight-time/duty- Communications Specialist 16 Airbus A321 NEOs, with time workshops for pilots options for nine more. The in December. “FAR 117 will fter several years of fuel-efficient A321s are affect everything we do. We double-digit growth expected to begin arriving in have interisland pilots flying Aregarding the number 2016. of pilots, fleet size, and routes, The NEOs will be a mid- Capt. Koichiro Hawaiian Airlines slowed its size addition to the airline’s Kono standing pace slightly in 2013, but the fleet of B-717s, B-767s, and in front of pilot group and management Airbus A330s. They will also a Hawaiian continue to enjoy a collabora- augment existing transpacific B-717 during tive partnership that has paid service and could be used to sunset at Kona dividends for both sides. open new routes between the International The pilots and manage- islands and smaller-market Airport on ment negotiated new pay U.S. mainland cities. the island of rates related to the planned In July, the MEC negotiated

F/O B rian S hirota by P hoto Hawaii. acquisition of a new aircraft eight new LOAs with manage- type, ratified a series of letters ment with improvements multiple legs each day, and of agreement with mid-con- for check airmen, pilots on at the same time we have tract improvements in several disability, deadhead travel augmented crews flying some areas, and began operating benefits, upgrades for pilots of the longest overwater even more flights to new under training freezes, and routes in the world. Once HAL at a Glance destinations along the Pacific protections for pilots who again, we’ll need to work with Number of pilots: 625 Rim. And in 2014 Hawaiian participated in the airline’s the company to ensure that Headquarters: Honolulu, is poised to enter what first-ever Line Operations everyone understands the Hawaii could be its biggest market Safety Audit. new rules and that they are Pilot base: Honolulu, Hawaii yet—mainland China. With In addition to the upcom- being adhered to properly,” Operations: Hawaiian operates its code-share arrangement ing new Beijing route, in Terrell says. more than 150 daily flights connecting the islands of Oahu, with China Airlines, Hawaiian 2013 Hawaiian began serving Looking to the future, the Maui, Kauai, and Hawaii. It has been authorized to begin Auckland, New Zealand; its MEC has already appointed a offers nonstop service to the flying to Beijing in April. fifth Japanese destination, new Negotiating Committee, Hawaiian islands from 10 cities Among the other changes, Sendai; and Taipei, Taiwan. which has begun preparing on the U.S. mainland and also the airline closed its long- It ended service to Manila in for Section 6 bargaining, even has direct, nonstop flights from Honolulu to American Samoa, time pilot domicile in Seattle, the Philippines in July. though the pilots’ contract is Tahiti, Australia, New Zealand, Wash., and appears to have The airline had planned not amendable until 2015. South Korea, and Japan halted—at least for now— to begin operating a wholly The MEC is also preparing Fleet: 18 B-717-200s; 14 plans to expand its flying to owned feeder carrier called for the possibility of a future B-767-300ERs; and 16 the eastern United States. “Ohana by Hawaiian” to merger or other corporate A330-200s, with 7 more on “Our mission as a Master extend its reach into smaller transaction, as Hawaiian’s order and options for 5 more. Executive Council (MEC) is to communities in the islands. rapid growth and steady On order: 6 A350-300s, to be delivered 2017–2020; 16 advocate for our pilots. We profitability has recently The operating certificate A321 NEOs, with options for help management where it’s to do so, by the subsidiary attracted new investors. The 9 more. Hawaiian also owns appropriate, and make sure Empire Airlines in Utah, was MEC’s goal is to have in 3 ATR 42 turboprops that will our crews are recognized as delayed, however, due to the place a strategy, funds, and be operated by a regional an essential component of federal government shutdown. volunteers in the event such a subsidiary the airline and are compen- Proving flights were expected transaction occurs. sated accordingly,” says Capt. to begin in December 2013 or “The pilots look forward to Lem Terrell, the pilots’ MEC January 2014. continuing their collaborative chairman. Like other ALPA pilot relationship with manage- Hawaiian pilots started groups, the Hawaiian pilots ment and to seeing the 2013 by ratifying a letter of have been gearing up for airline’s fleet and operations agreement (LOA) that set the implementation of the grow; 2014 looks to be a good pay rates and work rules for FAA’s new flight- and duty- year,” says Terrell. January 2014 Air Line Pilot 35 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 Island Air A New Chapter By Lydia Jakub and other related items. been completed, and the op- ALPA Senior During these negotiations, eration is running smoothly. Communications Specialist the company, in January There were, however, some 2013, announced that it had scheduling delays during the sland Air is working toward entered into a preliminary transition period. The MEC being more than just the agreement for the sale of worked with management Ileading regional airline for Island Air. Supplemental in- to address these issues interisland travel in Hawaii. formation also indicated that through modifications to the The company wants total the sale was contingent upon new agreement. The pilots interisland market the ATR being up and running received “show time” pay and domination. by February 2013 and conces- credit for reporting one hour In February sions from all three labor before departure during the 2013, Island Air was groups. The alternative, ac- transition period. purchased by Ohana cording to management, was Now senior management is Airline Holdings LLC, a that Island Air would cease working to rebuild the airline private holding com- operations in March 2013. and position it for continued pany owned by Oracle With only a few short growth and expanded service. founder and billionaire weeks to get a deal done, Ellison also owns the island of Larry Ellison. Under management provided the Lanai, and following his acqui- his ownership, there’s MEC with a list of proposed sition of Island Air, the pri- Capt. Diana Feddersohn and a new direction for concessions that it claimed mary focus for the operation F/O Darrick Young prepare improving and expanding were essential to the overall was on developing reliable for flight. interisland service. state of the company and a service for Lanai passengers, “This transaction gave requirement for the sale of while maintaining limited in- Island Air a new life,” says the airline to move forward. terisland service between the Capt. Monte Vories, chairman The MEC responded firmly other islands of Hawaii. This of the pilots’ Master Executive that pilot costs were not the has since changed. Recently, Council (MEC). “For too long, problem and that manage- management announced the company’s business plan ment was over-reaching. that it intends to double the was set on survival mode. The Intense discussions soon fleet over the coming year to pilots fought long and hard to yielded an agreement that develop a major interisland keep our airline flying, and we reflected the needs of the presence. embrace this new chapter. We pilot group while providing Led by CEO Paul Casey, AIS at a Glance hope that it brings renewed the company with the means the former CEO of Hawaiian Pilots joined ALPA: 1989 success to our airline, our em- for stability and growth. The Airlines, the airline is also Number of pilots: 50 ployees, and our passengers agreement protected pilot publicly promoting its three Operations: Approximately 36 for many years to come.” pay, preserved key work rules, priorities—safe operations, daily flights Getting to this point has and ensured that Island on-time performance, and Service: Island Air is Hawaii’s not been without its chal- Air pilots would be able to customer service. Key to this leading regional airline, with lenges. A Dash 8 operation for maintain a reasonable quality success is the pilot group. 331 weekly flights to and from more than a decade, Island of life when flying the new “We are excited about the the islands of Oahu, Maui, Molokai, Lanai, and Kauai Air management began look- airplanes. company’s plans to expand Fleet: 4 ATR 72s ing to refleet with ATR 72s. The agreement passed by our service and customer This triggered a provision in a strong majority vote. Every base around the islands,” the pilot contract to begin single voting member partici- Vories says. “It will take con- negotiations for appropriate pated in the balloting process. tinued teamwork, however, pay rates, and discussions be- The sale was finalized in between management and gan in mid-2012. These talks February 2013, after Island the employees for these focused on fair compensation Air secured agreements with plans to be realized. We have for flying the larger air- its other labor groups and proven our commitment planes—pay rates, how sick received FAA certification to through our actions and look time and vacation time would operate 64-seat ATR 72s. forward to strengthening be paid and administered The fleet conversion from Island Air’s presence in the with the new rates, training, the Dash to the ATR has since local marketplace.” 36 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Jazz Aviation Building a Strategic Future By Jen Lofquist was held in June 2013 with wants to diversify its income ALPA Senior more than 50 questions being stream. In August, the MEC Communications Specialist submitted and answered ratified a letter of under- during an eight-hour period. standing that provides some o pilot would consider The event was repeated in scheduling flexibility to help taking off without a October with similar success. the airline as it actively seeks Nflight plan. For the The pilots also ended the charter flying. But not all of Jazz pilots, their strategic year with pilot unity building this income diversification plan, supported by robust nights in every domicile. is expected to involve flight communications, is serving as These events provide an op- operations. The company a flight plan as they tackle an portunity for pilots to directly might seek ground handling ever-changing environment. interact with MEC and Local contracts, maintenance Jazz, the second largest Executive Council officers contracts, and other nonflying employer of pilots in Canada, and ask questions in a casual sources of revenue. “As part JAZ at a Glance operates as the major setting. of Jazz Aviation, it’s in our Pilots joined ALPA: 2001 partner in the up-to-75-seats These communication best interest to allow the Number of pilots: 1,450 market for Canada’s largest efforts have been especially company the flexibility to Operations: Jazz transports airline, Air Canada. Flying to important as the MEC is fac- seek additional streams of about 9.1 million passengers more destinations in North ing significant challenges. Last revenue,” Buraglia notes. annually on more than 800 daily flights to 82 destinations America than any other fall, Air Canada announced The pilot group has also across Canada and the United Canadian airline with approxi- that it was seeking bids from prepared for any possible States mately 800 flights each day, other regional airlines to fly corporate restructuring that Pilot bases: Vancouver, B.C.; Jazz is a significant player. certain transborder routes— may affect them. The pilots Calgary, Alb.; Toronto, Ont.; The pilots’ strategic plan some of which is currently are contributing to a strategic Montreal, Que.; and Halifax, N.S. is evaluated at each regular done by Jazz—as part of Air initiative fund that will only Headquarters: Dartmouth, N.S. Master Executive Council Canada’s efforts to cut costs. be used if needed. “No one, Fleet: 25 CRJ200s, 16 (MEC) meeting and revised if Jazz is somewhat protected and certainly no pilot group, CRJ705s, 34 Dash 8-100s, necessary. The MEC has also by its strong capacity-pur- can be fully prepared for 26 Dash 8-300s, and 21 instituted a robust communi- chase agreement (CPA) with every possibility,” Buraglia Dash 8-400s; charter fleet, 5 airplanes that vary from cations plan that uses appro- Air Canada. This CPA, in effect says. “But with the help of our season to season priate technology to reach the until Dec. 31, 2020, mandates strategic plan, our strategic pilots that are based across the amount of capacity that Canada. “We know that not Air Canada has agreed to every pilot gets information purchase from Jazz. Although the same way. This is why we Air Canada could reduce the work to ensure we’re reaching amount of flying performed out with a number of com- by Jazz, the effect is limited munication tools,” says Capt. by the number of covered Claude Buraglia, the pilots’ aircraft and minimum block- MEC chairman. “It’s not hour guarantees. “Although enough to send out an e-mail we have strong protection and assume the message in our CPA,” comments azz ) has been received. We want Buraglia, “we can’t rely on to make sure the pilots hear that CPA to fully ensure our

from us, but also that we hear future. As stakeholders in our (J N oreen ewton . from them.” company’s success, we must apt To that end, the MEC has and will take an active role in been hosting The Contact, a what lies ahead.” C by P hoto live blog whereby pilots can As part of this commit- initiative fund, and our com- Jazz Aviation Dash 8s submit questions on their ment, the pilot group works munications program, we feel lined up for boarding in MEC site via e-mail or by closely with management that we have a strong base to Vancouver, B.C. text message, and the MEC and Jazz’s parent company, protect this pilot group, our responds quickly with factual Chorus Aviation. Chorus has company, and our careers as information. The first of these indicated to the MEC that it we move forward.” January 2014 Air Line Pilot 37 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 Kelowna Flightcraft Intense Negotiations Result in Ratified Pilot Contract By Kimberly Seitz Canada for a number of time rules will bring to their ALPA Senior years. “Since this was a style operations if those rules go Communications Specialist of negotiating we hadn’t into effect in 2014. previously used, the MEC Transport Canada’s he Kelowna Flightcraft Negotiating Committee Canadian Aviation Master Executive and company negotiators Regulations Advisory T Council (MEC) and its attended an IBN workshop Council (CARAC) Technical Negotiating Committee spent in June, just before the start Committee publicized the the beginning of 2013 prepar- of negotiations.” IBN training proposals and recommenda- KFC at a Glance ing for contract negotiations was conducted by experi- tions contained in a 125- Pilots joined ALPA: 1997 that were slated to start in enced federal conciliation page report issued by the (became an ALPA-represented 2014 and instead ended the and mediation officers from CARAC Flight Crew Fatigue pilot group when CALPA merged with ALPA) year with a ratified collective the Federal Mediation and Management Working Group agreement. Niney-six percent Conciliation Services. in August 2012. That report Number of pilots: 135 of the pilots who cast ballots The MEC Contract Study advocates for modern, Headquarters: Kelowna, B.C. voted in favor of the agree- Committee worked with science-based fatigue rules Pilot bases: Hamilton, Ont.; ment, which was reached after ALPA staff to develop a that would apply to all pilots Vancouver, B.C.; Halifax, N.S.; Thunder Bay, Ont.; Saskatoon, three and a half months of pilot survey that guided the in Canada. Sask.; Calgary, Alb.; and intensely focused negotiations. Negotiating Committee’s “The proposed rules are of Kelowna, B.C. “We opened our nego- priorities. “The five-plus- great interest to the Kelowna Fleet: Boeing 727s, Convair tiations earlier to show our two-year agreement, among pilots who primarily operate 580s, and DC-10s commitment to the compa- other things, provides overnight, domestic, next-day ny and to our customer,” says increases in allowances and delivery freight,” says F/O Tim Capt. Derek Porter, the pilots’ pay, and provides long-term Wynn-Williams, the pilots’ MEC chairman. Kelowna labour stability for the MEC vice chairman. “Our needed cost airline,” Chanin says. Kelowna MEC has repeatedly engaged certainty Flightcraft is Canada’s largest management to institute a to be more cargo airline and flies for fatigue risk management sys- competitive Purolator and Canada Post, tem; however, management when it sub- both components of CPGoC. is not willing to participate in mitted its bid The agreement provides an meaningful discussions until in response opportunity to open sections the proposed rules come into to the Canada of the contract for nego- effect.” Of particular concern Post Group of tiations in five years, while to the Kelowna pilots is Companies others will remain intact for whether the final rule con- [CPGoC] the seven-year duration. tains a cargo “carveout,” as is Request for “We could not have gotten the case in the United States. Proposal due through this process without Staffing levels at Kelowna in late 2013.” the support of ALPA staff,” ac- held steady during the year, From left: Capt. Derek Porter, The company approached knowledges Chanin. “In par- says Wynn-Williams, with hir- MEC chairman; F/O Tim the MEC in April with a ticular, our labour relations ing conducted only to offset Wynn-Williams, MEC vice request to begin early advisor, Bert Leger, and the attrition due to retirements, chairman; Capt. Serge Fortier, negotiations, so Capt. Brett staff of the Communications pilots on long-term disability, MEC secretary-treasurer; Chanin, the MEC Negotiating and Economic & Financial and pilots who resigned to and Negotiating Committee Committee chairman, the Analysis Departments kept pursue careers elsewhere. member F/O Kris Kanigan team of pilot volunteers, and our pilots informed and Kelowna Flighcraft answer questions during the ALPA staff set about prepar- our Negotiating Committee transports 1,000,000 pounds road show in Hamilton, Ont. ing to open in June. focused on the job at hand.” of air freight nightly across “The company expressed And while negotiations Canada, and the pilot group a desire to participate in were the primary focus for hopes the newly ratified interest-based negotiations most of 2013, the MEC also agreement provides the [IBN],” notes Chanin, a type continued to keep an eye company the stability to of negotiating that has been on what changes the new maintain that status through successfully employed in Canadian flight-time/duty- the coming years. 38 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Mesa New Airplanes, New Contract By Lydia Jakub the company; and (3) the tools are being used to pro- ALPA Senior establishment of a Training mote these ongoing efforts, Communications Specialist Review Board. These improve- including Facebook, Twitter, ments, while incremental e-mails, and pilot-wide calls. s we move into 2014, and noneconomic, went into In December, the MEC Mesa is said to be one effect immediately so the toured pilot bases to talk Aof the fastest-growing pilots didn’t have to wait to with pilots U.S. regional airlines in the in- take advantage of these gains directly about dustry. In 2013, all furloughed until a complete new agree- contract- pilots were recalled, and more ment was finalized. enforcement than 120 pilots were hired. The remaining open efforts, as well An additional 350 pilots are contract sections are mostly as the status expected to be hired over the related to economics— of negotiations next two years, as Mesa takes scheduling, benefits, and and other is- delivery of 30 new Embraer compensation. Although sues affecting 175s for United Airlines. progress remains steady, the industry. The increased number of there’s still much work to be Recognizing airplanes and the opportu- done to attain the necessary the necessity nity Mesa has to extend its quality-of-life improvements of having a existing United Express fleet and achieve the pilots’ goal of unified voice of 20 CRJ700s through 2019 a competitive contract that to promote Pictured left to right are F/O Marcin are due, in large part, to the retains and attracts profes- the airline pilot- Kolodziejczyk, Capt. Kenneth Mayfield, F/O pilot group’s efforts. Mesa is sional pilots. ing profession Ahriel Greenfield, and F/O Jacob Clymo. consistently ranked at the top In addition to negotiations, on Capitol Hill for on-time performance by the MEC has maintained its and elsewhere, the MEC its code-share partners, and focus on contract enforce- has set out to educate it’s clear that they are taking ment and has fewer than 20 pilots about ALPA’s Political notice of the pilots’ efforts. open grievance cases. The Action Committee (PAC) and “It’s a great time to be a success of the pilots’ griev- increase participation. In just Mesa pilot,” says F/O Marcin ance program can largely be two months, the Mesa pilots Kolodziejczyk, chairman of attributed to their pregriev- have more than tripled their the pilots’ Master Executive ance process, under which the PAC participation rate. Council (MEC). “Every day, our Grievance Committee meets Also, to encourage the MAG at a Glance crews prove why Mesa should regularly with management next generation of pilots Pilots joined ALPA: 1987 maintain its current business to resolve issues quickly and to become involved in the Number of pilots: and win new flying opportuni- efficiently before a formal piloting career, the MEC is Approximately 800 ties. We are the reason for grievance is filed. If an issue working closely with ALPA’s Operations: Mesa Air Group Mesa’s success. Now it’s time remains unresolved, the MEC Aviation Collegiate Education includes go! and Mesa Airlines, and operates as United Express for our pilots to see a return has a robust and creative pro- (ACE) Club at Embry-Riddle and US Airways Express under on our investment.” gram to process grievances in University in Prescott, Ariz. contractual agreements and Contract negotiations be- a timely manner—grievance (See “Cleared to Dream,” independently as go! in Hawaii. gan in March 2011. The par- settlement meetings with December 2013, page 30.) Serves 74 cities, 32 states, ties have reached tentative senior management, griev- “If we don’t stand up and Canada, and Mexico with 370 daily departures agreements on 15 of the 27 ance mediation meetings fight for our future now, we sections. Of these, 12 sections with a neutral mediator and, won’t have a future to fight Bases: Charlotte, N.C.; Chicago, Ill.; Honolulu, were implemented in 2012 if needed, arbitration. for,” Kolodziejczyk says. “Mesa Hawaii; Phoenix, Ariz.; and as part of a grievance settle- A new campaign, “Contract pilots understand this and Washington, D.C. ment. They were all current Enforcement Begins with have answered our call to ac- Headquarters: Phoenix, Ariz. book or better and included You!,” was launched in tion. We will continue working Fleet: 72 airplanes, including (1) an enhanced commuter November 2013 to remind aggressively to protect and CRJ200s, CRJ700s, and policy; (2) a provision that pilots how important it is to advance the careers of our CRJ900s; plus 30 EMB-175s pilots must be provided understand and enforce their pilots and remain prepared over the next two years with a written statement of contractual rights. Many of the to address any challenge that charges before meeting with MEC’s regular communication may be ahead.” January 2014 Air Line Pilot 39 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 North American Pilots Prove Resilient in Face of Uncertain Future By Barbara Gottshalk additional operational sav- individual pilots as a remedy, ALPA Lead ings and revenue-generating totaling nearly $176,000. Communications Specialist measures, review and resolve In mid-November, the outstanding grievances, and pilots were presented with asketball Hall of Famer identify and clarify problem- a new challenge: Global NAA at a Glance Michael Jordan once atic contract language is a Aviation Holdings once Pilots Joined ALPA: 2009 Bsaid, “Obstacles don’t great way to accomplish that,” again filed for Chapter 11 Number of pilots: 150 have to stop you. If you run he adds. A provision for these bankruptcy protection, citing Pilot base: New York (JFK) into a wall, don’t turn around meetings is included in the the weakness in worldwide Headquarters: Peachtree and give up. Figure out how agreement. freight markets coupled with City, Ga. to climb it, go through it, or To that end, the pilots’ MEC the military’s decision to Operations: North American work around it.” In the past approved two tentative letters immediately curtail its cargo Airlines provides air year, the pilots of North Amer- of agreement (LOAs)—the expansion flying. In its an- transportation services ican Airlines have run into a Reserve Bypass LOA and the nouncement, Global indicated throughout the world, operating both charter and scheduled few walls, but they haven’t Mixed Flying Lines LOA—in that it intends to continue service for the U.S. military, turned around and given up. December 2012. The MEC operating during the reorgani- tour operators, government Instead, with the support of and management negotiated zation process. ALPA has been agencies, and sports teams, ALPA, they have faced these these agreements to benefit appointed to the Unsecured among others, and as an ACMI challenges head on. both parties by improving Creditors Committee as one carrier for other scheduled airlines When Global Aviation pilots’ quality of life and of three members and the Fleet: 5 B-767-300ERs Holdings, Inc., the parent providing the company with only union on the committee. company of North American more flexibility. In February, In response to the bank- Airlines and World Airways, the pilots ratified the Reserve ruptcy filing, the MEC and came out of Chapter 11 in Bypass LOA, which took effect ALPA staff mobilized im- February 2013, the pilot on March 2. In April, the MEC mediately, marshaling the full group was five months reached a memorandum of resources of the Association into implementing understanding with manage- and coordinating with the the concessionary ment clarifying the recall- Association’s outside bank- contract they ratified bypass procedures described ruptcy counsel, Cohen, Weiss in September 2012—a in the pilots’ contract. The and Simon LLP, to assist and consensual agreement pilot group also worked suc- support the pilots as they face that was key to the cessfully with management this latest challenge. “Based company’s success- to implement the Known on the ALPA Economic ful emergence from Crewmember program in & Financial Analysis bankruptcy. August. Department’s evaluation of Indeed, the pilots One issue that the MEC the company’s position, we vowed to work closely focused on throughout believe that North American with management to 2013 was the determina- is performing profitably and help the airline regain tion of remedies for the roughly in accordance with its financial viability, and pilots regarding a vacation projections. Nevertheless, their efforts have been pay arbitration award from we’re preparing for any even- instrumental in the prog- 2012. Despite the process tuality. With the resources ress the airline has made being put on hold due to the and support from ALPA, we this past year. “In ratify- airline’s bankruptcy, the MEC are doing everything possible ing the new contract, it and Grievance Committee, to protect our contract and Capt. Nick Cercone, the North was important to us to along with staff in ALPA’s pilots’ jobs at North American American pilots’ Jumpseat enhance our relationship with Representation Department, as we move through the Committee chairman. management and work to- worked diligently to quantify bankruptcy process.” gether to advance our mutual the damages and develop a As 2014 progresses, it’s goals,” says Capt. Rob Lewis, schedule of owed vacation clear the pilots are taking up the pilots’ Master Executive compensation. As a result, in Jordan’s charge, determined Council (MEC) chairman. November, ALPA was able to to “figure out how to work “We believe that engaging secure hundreds, and in some around the obstacles” in front with management to discuss cases, thousands of dollars for of them. 40 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Piedmont With New Agreement in Place, Pilots Look to the Future By Jan W. Steenblik the National Mediation Board and the pilot group remain Technical Editor in 2011. The agreement was busy is the rate of attrition signed on April 1. within the pilot group. As ast year, Piedmont pilots “Through the hard work pilots leave the airline and were almost three years of the Piedmont MEC their MEC committee work, Linto protracted negotia- Negotiating Committee and the MEC has been working tions for their next collective Piedmont management, with to fill any open committee bargaining agreement. But on assistance from the National positions. Feb. 1, 2013, the pilots’ Master Mediation Board, we obtained “We are in a constant Executive Council (MEC) Ne- a respectful and professional state of pilot turnover,” says gotiating Committee reached contract,” Freedman notes. Freedman, “partly due to a tentative agreement on a “As MEC chairman, my life the career- new five-year contract with was made much easier with progression management. the assistance of ALPA na- LOA that takes On March 22, the pilots tional, which was tremendous pilots to US ratified the new agreement. in supporting the Piedmont Airways. Pilots With nearly 90 percent of MEC Negotiating Committee. also leave for the eligible pilots voting, 78 We had great support from other airlines percent voted in favor of the the ALPA national officers, and employ- new collective bargaining the Strike Preparedness ers they feel agreement. Committee, and the Legal, provide more The new contract included Representation, Economic monetary or a signing bonus, annual pay & Financial Analysis, long-term ca- increases, and an agreement and Communications reer potential.” with US Airways mainline to Departments.” Moreover, provide career-progression Like other U.S. airlines, because opportunities for Piedmont Piedmont is now focusing on Piedmont has pilots. The pilots also agreed implementing the new FAR an aging fleet, to contribute more to their Part 117 flight- and duty-time US Airways The sun sets over the tail of a Piedmont Dash 8. health care, bringing their limits and minimum rest management contributions more in line requirements. Piedmont has expressed its desire with the rest of the U.S. air- management has developed to bring a new fleet to the line industry. a training program for the regional. “We have only Capt. Bruce Freedman, the pilot group that should help had preliminary talks, and PDT at a Glance pilots’ MEC chairman, says, in the transition to the new more in-depth discussions Pilots joined ALPA: 1984 “This agreement not only rules. The MEC is heavily are necessary to determine Number of pilots: 361 rewards the pilots for their promoting the ALPA Part what management will be Headquarters: Salisbury, Md. commitment to Piedmont 117 smartphone app to the seeking from the pilot group,” Pilot bases: New Bern, N.C.; Airlines, it also recognizes Piedmont pilots. Freedman explains. “At least Charlottesville, Va.; Roanoke, their contributions to US “Through various letters of US Airways Group manage- Va.; Harrisburg, Pa.; and Salisbury, Md. Airways, Piedmont’s parent agreement (LOA), discussions ment is discussing the future company. We’re pleased that with management will allow of Piedmont. Those of us Fleet: 44 DHC-8s nearly four years of negotia- our participation in planning who have been here a while tions have been successfully for any improvements or have waited a long time for concluded and that we have changes that Part 117 may some sort of commitment in come away from the table require,” Freedman points that regard.” with a contract that will en- out. “This could involve Piedmont Airlines is a able the pilots to not only see scheduling matters, crew base wholly owned subsidiary of short-term benefits in their restructuring, or any other US Airways. Piedmont’s 361 paychecks but also long-term presently unforeseen circum- pilots fly nearly 440 daily benefits in their careers.” stance. The future will keep departures to 55 cities in the The pilot group began ne- all of us very busy, but that’s eastern United States and gotiations in 2009, with both nothing new.” Canada with a fleet of 44 sides seeking assistance from One reason the MEC Dash 8-100s and -300s. January 2014 Air Line Pilot 41 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 PSA Pilots Forge a New Future By Barbara Gottshalk tions, which had dragged on September 27—six months ALPA Lead for nearly four years, took to the day after they ratified Communications Specialist on a new urgency, and their new contract—PSA pi- by mid-February, the PSA lots ratified agreements that ndustry consolidation has Negotiating Committee had guarantee the placement of a become the “norm” in the reached a tentative agree- minimum of 30 large regional IU.S. airline industry. For a ment with management. On jets on the PSA operating number of ALPA-represented March 27, the pilots ratified certificate. PSA at a Glance pilot groups, especially those a new five-year contract “These new agreements Pilots joined ALPA: 1988 who fly for regional airlines, with quality-of-life gains, pay between the pilots, PSA, and Number of pilots: 530 this new norm has had a increases, and opportunities US Airways provide PSA pilots Operations: PSA is a wholly profound effect on their jobs, for PSA pilots to progress to with guaranteed seniority- owned subsidiary of US their contracts, and their US Airways mainline. “With based interviews and hiring Airways Group. It operates 327 airlines. So when the pilots this agreement, we achieved at US Airways and the new flights per day as US Airways of PSA Airlines—a wholly much-needed improvements American Airlines for the next Express, serving 65 airports in the U.S. owned subsidiary of US Air- for our pilots, while also 10 years. We also secured Bases: Charlotte, N.C.; Dayton, ways Group—learned of the creating opportunities to help greater job security during Ohio; and Knoxville, Tenn. potential merger between US secure a competitive position that period,” Coeling explains. Headquarters: Dayton, Ohio Airways and American Air- for PSA well into the future,” In exchange, the pilots agreed Fleet: 35 CRJ200s and 14 lines, they had already begun says Capt. Jesse Coeling, the to the gradual phaseout of CRJ700s preparing for all possible pilots’ MEC chairman. high-longevity provisions in contingencies for their future. With an April 1 effective the current agreement and The PSA Master Executive date, the pilot group leaders small changes to benefits. Council (MEC) started off began contract implemen- Acknowledging that the 2013 by meeting to thor- tation, educating pilots decision was not an easy one oughly review the group’s about the new provisions for the pilots or for the MEC, strategic plan. This evaluation and the dates they would Coeling says, “The MEC thor- included a review of all the go into effect. Meanwhile, oughly evaluated the current MEC committees, their goals, the pilot group was dealt a state of the industry—espe- and tactics for serious blow when PSA Vice cially the regional sector—as accomplish- President of Flight Operations well as economic and hiring ing them. Mark Zweidinger passed away forecasts for the near and The MEC unexpectedly. The pilots had long terms, taking into consid- also hosted a an excellent relationship with eration the demographics of series of pilot him, and his passing af- the pilot group. We also took unity building fected the pilot group deeply. a hard look at the challenges events in each Still, contract enforcement facing wholly owned airlines of their three continued. In addition, the like PSA. Ultimately, we domiciles to MEC, which actively promotes concluded that it was in our meet with and supports pilots involve- pilots’ best interests—now, pilots and re- ment on MEC and ALPA, and in the future—to accept ceive feedback International committees, the agreement and recom- on various formed a Legislative Affairs mend that PSA pilots vote in issues. Committee and launched an favor of it.” When the ALPA-PAC drive to increase As the pilots forge their US Airways– pilot participation. new future, they have American In July, the Negotiating established an infrastructure Airlines Committee, along with that maintains the current F/O Costas Sivyllis is a merger was announced in representatives from PSA and MEC leaders for another member of ALPA’s Education February, the MEC pledged US Airways management, two years and solidifies Committee. to take action to ensure discussed placement of their robust network of pilot that the pilots would be an additional large jets at PSA. committees, ensuring that integral part of the merged Talks continued through the they are well prepared for company. Section 6 negotia- summer and early fall, and on the year ahead. 42 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Spirit Pilots, Airline See ‘Astounding’ Growth By Jen Lofquist new ways to reach the newest what they already have. With ALPA Senior pilots on the property. It’s their 2010 contract, the pilot Communications Specialist challenging, but a challenge group made impressive gains that must be met.” in salary and work rules, e’re not the Due to the growth of the while keeping an almost same airline airline and the pilot group, unheard of provision—four “W we were five the MEC has developed dif- days off between trips. This years ago,” says Capt. Chris ferent strategies to work with Amongero, the pilots’ Master management. Soon after the Executive Council (MEC) 2010 contract was signed, chairman. “We’re growing at the pilots went into strict an astounding rate, and it’s enforcement mode as man- not slowing down.” agement failed to abide by In 2014, Spirit Airlines, a the new agreement. However, self-described ultra-low-cost as the grievances piled up carrier, will have more than and arbitrations became 860 pilots on the property delayed, both the pilot group and 53 airplanes. The pilot and management looked for Capt. Andy Nelson group that was once based in new ways to work together, greets passengers on Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Atlantic establishing a more effective a flight from Portland, City, N.J.; and Detroit, Mich.; way to interact. Ore., to Las Vegas, now has bases across the For instance, a number of Nev. Fun fact: The country. grievances within the last few couple had just gotten Additionally, over the next months have been resolved engaged on that two years, Spirit is expecting without the need for expen- flight. to have 20 more Airbuses sive, time-consuming arbitra- allows Spirit pilots to have delivered to the property and tions. Pilot and management easier commutes and main- will hire more than 400 pilots. discussions have sped up the tain a work/home balance With the implementation of process and resolved griev- that is rare in the industry. the 2010 pilot contract, Spirit ances that in the past would The pilots’ quality of life is has become an attractive have gone to arbitration, something the group will be employer. In 2013, the pilots allowing both parties to get aggressively protecting at the who were on the property in back to the work of moving bargaining table. 2010 became outnumbered passengers. “We are aware what an SPA at a Glance by those who weren’t. Each “Although it’s a step in anomaly our airline is,” notes Pilots joined ALPA: 1996 month, new-hire classes are the right direction that the Amongero. “We were once Number of pilots: 860 filled, and pilot volunteers company and the pilots are a small airline that flew to a Headquarters: Miramar, Fla. work hard to educate the new working better together,” handful of domestic destina- Pilot bases: Atlantic City, hires about ALPA and being a acknowledges Amongero, “it tions. Now we’re expanding N.J.; Chicago, Ill.; Dallas, Tex.; Spirit pilot. should be clear that when our southern U.S.- and Latin Detroit, Mich.; Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; and Las Vegas, Nev. “It’s not easy to keep up necessary we are more than American-based network and with the influx of pilots,” willing to pursue a grievance reaching across the country Fleet: 29 A319s, 22 A320s, and 2 A321s adds Amongero. “But we as far as needed to reach a with new domiciles in Las know that without contract fair decision that respects our Vegas, Nev.; Dallas, Tex.; and education, there simply can’t contract.” Chicago, Ill. Although this be contract compliance. We This is especially impor- expansion has come with have to provide the resources tant as the pilots’ contract some growing pains, we to our new pilots so that they amendable date inches ever are committed to working can quickly learn the ins and closer. In 2015, the five-year with the pilots already on outs of our contract. The MEC agreement becomes open the property and those who keeps an impressive stack of under Section 6. Preparations are coming to the airline to contracts on hand at all times by the pilot group are well make Spirit both a financial just to meet the demand. under way as they seek ad- success and a good company And we are always looking for ditional gains and to protect to work for.” January 2014 Air Line Pilot 43 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 Sun Country Pilots Determined to Negotiate Contract Improvements By John Perkinson sections are either tentatively MEC Grievance Committee Staff Writer agreed to or should be very continues to be busy han- close to resolution at this dling pilot grievances. he Sun Country pilots point, and we are hoping to The pilots’ Flight are prepared for what- close up the nonmonetary Operations Quality T ever it takes to negoti- open issues very soon. But Assurance (FOQA) program, ate a new labor agreement. the company hasn’t shown a nonpunitive reporting After several years of Section any willingness to address system for collecting flight 6 negotiations, the new Sun the pilots’ most important information used to improve Country owners and manage- issues—pay and retirement,” operational safety, is an- ment still show little interest he says. other example of company in completing an agreement Sun Country’s pay rates noncompliance. The FOQA that results remain firmly at the bottom program was suspended in compen- of the U.S. airline industry, several months ago due to sation, ben- despite the fact that Sun the company violating the efits, and Country is profitable and agreement. The pilots hope, work rules growing. Vanatta notes that however, that recent meet- commen- “all available financial data ings will result in their FOQA surate with clearly show a company program being reanimated Sun Country that is eminently profit- soon. They point to the pilot experi- able and has the ability to continuing operation of ence and compensate its pilots on par their Aviation Safety Action training. with the rest of the industry.” Program as a demonstration And as yet, The airline has been steadily of what they can accomplish An evening shot of a Sun Country B-737 NG. company growing, adding airplanes when pilots and manage- offers are and hiring pilots, and plans ment work together. not comparable to what pilot to continue hiring through The MEC is seeking addi- peers earn at other airlines. the foreseeable future. tional mediated negotiating “This pilot group continues Sun Country’s economic sessions in 2014 to conclude to be highly unified and outlook wasn’t always so these protracted talks and highly motivated,” says Capt. rosy. Contract talks began bring the pilots the collective Dennis Vanatta, the pilots’ while the airline was in bank- bargaining agreement they SCA at a Glance Master Executive Council ruptcy. Rising fuel costs and deserve. However, Vanatta Pilots joined ALPA: 1996 (MEC) chairman, noting that an owner who was caught in says that the pilots have Founded: 1982 “what progress we are making an elaborate Ponzi scheme already waited too long. Number of pilots: 209 is due in large part to our prompted the airline to file “We’re sitting at the bottom Pilot base: Minneapolis–St. pilots’ solidarity and determi- for Chapter 11 bankruptcy of the industry in terms of Paul International Airport nation. Despite the duration protection in April 2008. pay and retirement, and Operations: Based in Mendota of these negotiations, the Sun Country remained in we’re bound and determined Heights, Minn., Sun Country pilots remain unwaveringly bankruptcy until February to fix it with this contract.” flies scheduled service to focused on their very reason- 2011 but has been profitable And with their continued 32 destinations. The airline since then. unity and determination, the also operates charter flights able goal of reaching parity to numerous locations in the with the other B-737 pilots in Despite the airline’s Sun Country pilots can make United States, Mexico, the the U.S.” positive financial changes, it happen. Caribbean, and overseas. The During 2013, the pilot and previous concessions Sun Country offers sched- airline also operates military negotiating team met with taken by the pilots to help uled service mostly in the charter flights and is a member the company through dif- form of point-to-point flights of the U.S. Department of management under the guid- Defense’s Civil Reserve Air ance of a National Mediation ficult times, labor relations from its Minneapolis, Minn., Fleet. Board mediator an average with the new management hub to its 32 destinations, in- Fleet: 17 B-737 NGs of a week per month, but any continue to be less construc- cluding a number of seasonal progress at the bargaining tive than the pilots would destinations. The airline also table has been made “in like. Management contract provides ad hoc charter work fits and starts,” as Vanatta compliance has been an with its fleet of B-737-700s describes it. “Most of the ongoing concern, and the and -800s. 44 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Trans States Pilots Enjoy Growth, Positive Change in 2013 By John Perkinson and in a uniform manner. their peers at other airlines Staff Writer One of the biggest chal- through the ALPA Fee for lenges for Trans States flight Departure Committee and fter a period of chal- operations has been preparing the US Airways Express Pilots lenges following the for the new Part 117 flight- Alliance. These groups provide Aeconomic downturn time and duty-time (FT/DT) a collaborative forum for of 2008, the pilots of Trans rules, slated to go into effect pilots of similar operations States Airlines have witnessed on Jan. 4, 2014. Trans States to share what’s happening positive change at their airline received an exemption for at their airlines. Simmons in recent years. This Embraer an early transition date of stresses, “The information EMB-145 operator has experi- Dec. 29, 2013. Regarding exchange and support are enced growth at a time when the transition, the MEC has invaluable, regardless of much of the 50-seat market drafted a letter of agreement whether we are in contract remains sluggish, and the re- (LOA) that adds a long-call negotiations or not.” lationship between the pilots reserve option, which will Looking ahead to 2015, the and management continues provide some added schedule pilots’ contract contains a pro- to improve. flexibility for both the pilots vision to extend the amend- “We have added seven and management. The LOA able date by two years if Trans planes to our fleet and are hir- amends the method of States acquires Mitsubishi ing new pilots every month,” assigning trips to reserves, regional jets by August of that says Capt. Cliff Simmons, converting a reverse-seniority year. Trans States Holdings, the pilots’ Master Executive system into a “bucket” sys- the airline’s parent com- Council (MEC) chairman. “We tem that matches reserve day pany, signed a deal with are halfway through a four- availability with trip length. the Mitsubishi Aircraft

year labor contract, and we’re Pointing to the specifics Corporation several years ttendant routinely communicating of the rule change and new ago for 100 next-gen-

rest standards, Simmons eration Mitsubishi jets tes F light A

with the company to ensure A t that we address concerns that says, “Making adjustments (50 orders, 50 options). arise. Things aren’t perfect, for FT/DT changes has also However, the Japanese but there’s a noticeable differ- accelerated the company’s airframe manufacturer

ence in the way we’re doing hiring efforts.” Trans States has faced some design S T rans S chaefer , ate business.” has hired more than 150 and certification delays,

Management contract- pilots in the last year and a and it remains to be seen K by P hoto compliance issues continue half, and classes are currently if the company can meet An EBM-145 parked under a double rainbow to surface, but the pilots have planned through the first this deadline. at Chicago O’Hare International Airport. been quick to respond to part of 2014. Nonetheless, Trans these with notable success. Trans States, which oper- States management’s new “Management has been ates United Express and US willingness to communicate pretty good about working Airways Express flights, has and its apparent interest in with us to solve problems been working on a pilot pref- addressing concerns before before they become griev- erential bidding system, and they become larger problems TSA at a Glance ances,” Simmons says. the pilots have been meeting have clearly facilitated a more Pilots joined ALPA: 1994 For example, the pilots and with the company periodically positive work environment, Founded: 1982 management recently signed to discuss implementation. and Trans States pilots are do- Number of pilots: 352 a memorandum of under- Once the two sides come to ing all that they can to make Headquarters: Bridgeton, Mo. standing (MOU) to clarify terms, they will need to in- sure this trend continues. Operations: Approximately the pilots’ trip cancellation corporate the language in an Founded in 1982 as Resort 175 daily flights serving 39 policy negotiated in the last LOA. However, this effort has Air, Trans States is the fifth- cities as a United Express and contract. Pilots had expressed been placed on a back burner largest privately held regional a US Airways Express carrier concerns about inconsistent while the airline concentrates airline in the United States. Pilot domiciles: St. Louis, Mo., application of cancellation pay, on transitioning to the new Trans States Airlines, Compass and Dulles, Va. so the MEC drafted the MOU FT/DT rules. Airlines, and GoJet Airlines Fleet: 30 EMB-145s to ensure that those affected Trans States pilots con- are owned by Trans States receive the appropriate credit tinue to work closely with Holdings. January 2014 Air Line Pilot 45 The Pilots of ALPA 2014 United A New Beginning for the United MEC By C. David Kelly heritage and backgrounds of forefront of advocating that ALPA Senior the legacy United and legacy secondary cockpit barriers be Communications Specialist Continental pilots, the United required on all airliners and MEC immediately embraced advocated against permitting UAL at a Glance or 1,249 days, the pilots the opportunities that stand passengers to carry certain Pilots Joined ALPA: 1932 of United and Conti- before it. items aboard airplanes. Number of Pilots: Fnental Airlines traveled “For us to capture all the The United MEC and Approximately 12,500 a long and winding path synergies and strengths that its Legislative Committee, Headquarters: Chicago, Ill. toward forming a unified pilot our two pilot groups bring, we working with aviation secu- Pilot Domiciles: Chicago, group. On Oct. 3, 2013, after must move forward as one,” rity advocate Ellen Saracini, Ill;, Cleveland, Ohio; Denver, nearly three and a half years says Capt. Jay Heppner, the whose husband, Capt. Victor Colo.; Guam; Houston, Tex.; of negotiations, special meet- pilots’ MEC chairman, who Saracini, died aboard United Los Angeles, Calif.; New York City; San Francisco, Calif.; ings, ratification of a new was elected on October 3 and Flight 175 when it was Seattle, Wash.; and Washington United pilot agreement, and immediately began his term. commandeered by hijackers Dulles, Va. the release of the integrated “We owe it to the pilots we on 9/11, were instrumental Fleet: A319s, A320s, B-737s, seniority list, the new United represent to combine the best in introducing the Saracini B-747s, B-757s, B-767s, Master Executive Council facets of both pilot groups Aviation Safety Act of 2013 B-777s, and B-787s (MEC) was seated. and focus on our collective in the U.S. House and Senate. The merger of the two pilot futures as we build our new This legislation would require groups represented more history together.” all airlines to install secondary than just the combination In its first three months, barriers to protect cockpits. of two distinct pilot cultures the United MEC already “The horror of 9/11 must with strong and proud has filled MEC committee never again be experienced, backgrounds. It signaled a rosters, conducted a strategic and it is incumbent upon all new beginning for 12,500 planning session, hosted a of us to work toward making United pilots who constitute leadership conference, and sure our skies are as safe as nearly 25 percent of ALPA’s concluded its first regular possible,” observes Heppner, members. week-long meeting in which who has worked tirelessly It’s a pilot group that it addressed many challeng- with F/O Heide Oberndorf, brings a wide variety of talent ing and difficult issues. The the MEC Legislative and airline industry knowl- MEC’s work toward adopting Committee chair; the MEC edge to United Airlines—abil- a new policy manual that will Legislative Committee; and ities and skill sets that United guide the governing body is ALPA’s Governmental Affairs management nearing completion. Department staff to com- should draw This MEC has dedicated municate to members of on heavily itself to working together Congress the importance of and work with during this period of integrat- passing the Saracini Aviation closely to ben- ing two proud cultures and Safety Act. efit the airline histories. “Understanding “Our country has become and its em- that our strength lies in our complacent on so many ployees in this solidarity, we welcome this levels. We as pilots have to

P hoto by C. D avid K elly challenging challenge and stand ready consider our own fate on air- environment. to embark on this new order craft and adopt best practices Mindful of within our pilot group, our to never again allow another the diverse profession, and our union,” 9/11,” Heppner says. Heppner says. As this issue goes to Ellen Saracini was presented with her husband’s 25-year On the safety front, United press, the Saracini Aviation ALPA pin by Capt. Jay Heppner, the United MEC chairman, Airlines pilots have long Safety Act, sponsored by Rep. during an MEC meeting in 2013. Capt. Victor Saracini lost his been trailblazers in the area Michael G. Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) life on United Flight 175 on Sept. 11, 2001. Heppner thanked of airline safety, and they in the House and Sen. Robert Saracini for her tireless efforts to improve airline security. She continue that tradition in P. Casey, Jr. (D-Pa.) in the continues to work closely with the United MEC to advance promoting security measures Senate, is currently working on Capitol Hill the Saracini Aviation Safety Act of 2013, which in the post-9/11 world. its way through both cham- would require secondary cockpit barriers on all airliners. The United MEC is at the bers of Congress. 46 Air Line Pilot January 2014 Wasaya Pilots Encounter Mostly Clear Skies in 2013 By John Perkinson lives in these areas, the pilots some of the communities Staff Writer and management sought we serve the rest of the year. a faster and more accom- Ice roads are constructed espite some end-of- modating approach than the so that fuel, groceries, and the-year turbulence, traditional proposal/coun- other needed goods can be WSG at a Glance Dthe pilots of Wasaya terproposal process used for trucked in.” Pilots joined ALPA: 2008 Airways managed to keep most contract negotiations. Removing the three air- Founded: 1989 their labour relations “seat- In addition to the new craft from service, combined Number of pilots: 99 belt sign off” for much of collective bargaining agree- with the seasonal drop-off, Hub: Thunder Bay, Ont. 2013. With good reason. The ment, the cockpit crew compelled Wasaya to take Pilot domiciles: Thunder Bay, pilots negotiated a lucrative ranks grew by more than 20 action. Consequently, the Ont.; Pickle Lake, Ont.; Sioux new labour agreement—their percent in 2013, increasing airline returned several Lookout, Ont.; Timmins, Ont.; and Red Lake, Ont. second since joining ALPA— staffing to nearly 100 pilots. leased Pilatus PC-12s and using interest-based nego- And for the first time since announced that a limited Fleet: 27 airplanes including Beech 1900Ds, Cessna the airline began operations, number of pilots would need tiations (IBN) for this latest C-208Bs, Hawker Siddeley round of talks. IBN requires the group had one of its own to be furloughed. The MEC HS-748s, Pilatus PC-12s, and both parties to provide ideas retire. On this momentous has been investigating the Bombardier Dash 8s for resolving potential dif- occasion, the Wasaya MEC use of voluntary leave and Fun fact: In the Oji-Cree ferences to help labour and worked with Red Lake other options as a means language, wasaya means “it management work toward Airport Manager Duane to stop the furloughs; but is bright,” referring to the sun rising in the eastern sky cooperative solutions. Riddel and Volunteer Fire as this issue goes to press, “Negotiations went a Department Chief Walter some number of furloughs lot quicker and were more Scarrow to give Capt. Ken appeared to be effective this time around,” Peddie the proper farewell, inevitable. says F/O James Harding, complete with the tradi- “This is a the pilots’ Master Executive tional water salute over the hard pill for Council (MEC) chairman, airplane on the ramp that our pilots noting that the new agree- particular Saturday night. to swallow,” ment, which was ratified last “You have to understand says Harding. April, “reflects the strong and that we’re a relatively young However, with cooperative relationship we company,” says Harding. the vital services have with our management, “We’ve only been in opera- that Wasaya something we will con- tion since 1989. Although provides and tinue to build upon moving some pilots have opted to the cooperative forward.” leave Wasaya, Ken is our first and supportive Negotiations concluded af- pilot to officially retire.” relationship the ter a mere eight months, and However, several ground- group has with the new contract provides related incidents in the fall of management, the pilots are Capt. Ken Peddie’s for pay rate increases and 2013 created an unforeseen confident that the airline last flight on his an upgraded salary system. financial challenge for the will return to the growth and retirement day. The deal also includes per airline. These events required good fortune it experienced diem and vacation allotment the airline to temporarily for most of 2013. improvements as well as the park a Beech 1900 and two Wasaya Airways LP is pilots’ first sick-leave bank. Hawker Siddeleys at a time solely owned by 12 of the Wasaya provides a lifeline when the airline could ill First Nations communities to 25 First Nation communi- afford an interruption in it serves, and operates ties in Ontario, transporting service. from hubs at Thunder Bay necessary supplies for much Harding adds, “We’re also International Airport and of the year. So it’s no surprise approaching our slow season Sioux Lookout Airport. The that the airline maintains an when the demand for our airline also offers charter and “essential services” designa- services isn’t as great. This cargo service from Red Lake tion from the Canada Labour is the time of year when the and Pickle Lake, Ont., and Code. Because a disruption winter roads go in, allowing strictly charter service from of service could jeopardize ground vehicles to reach Timmins, Ont. January 2014 Air Line Pilot 47