April 30, 2012

To: All AMFA Locals and Members

Re: National Director’s Monthly Update for April 2012

Dear Members:

This month, on April 23rd, a second tentative agreement (TA) was reached between the AMFA and the IBT that outlines seniority integration between the SWA and AirTran mechanics. The principal revisions to the prior TA reflect membership input received during the AMFA road shows. This TA will be submitted to both membership groups for a vote which will begin on May 21, and the tally will be on June 21, 2012. If either side rejects the TA we will be proceeding under the terms of the Process Agreement that outlines the procedures for moving the dispute into the arbitration process for a final and binding resolution. AMFA informational meetings are currently in progress; please contact your committee representative for local meeting times.

Voting is now underway for the SWA Appearance Technician’s Tentative Agreement (TA) with the conclusion of the informational road show. The tally for the vote will be on May 24, 2012.

The SWA Section 6 negotiation preparations continued this month and the Committee is reviewing the results of the proposal prioritization survey that concluded on March 5, 2012.

At Alaska Airlines meetings were held to discuss staffing levels at various stations with a specific focus on the Bay Area. Additionally, there may be opportunities for temporary duty assignments, including Hawaii, as Alaska works to support our operation around the system.

Several members of the NEC and I traveled to Washington, DC this month to meet with members of Congress and Mr. Paul Leyh, General Manager TSA – Commercial Aviation, in regard to the concept of a federally recognized SIDA Badge that would greatly ease the issues we face when working a "down-line" maintenance trip. Mr. Leyh informed us that TSA shares our vision and will attempt to facilitate granting AMFA a seat on the Industrial Steering Committee to work on a project aimed at the standardization of airport/airline security badges and protocol.

For more carrier specific updates and further information regarding AMFA and the airline industry, please visit the AMFA National Web site at www.AMFANational.org and remember our most determined efforts will only succeed with your continued support and participation – Please stay informed. With your participation we will jointly craft our collective future. Work together, support one another, and be proud of your important profession.

Sincerely,

Louie Key

National Director

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