United Airlines Technicians Rally Nationwide, Demand Better Wages and Safety Standards

Friday, August 30, 2024

United Airlines Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) nationwide rallied today, calling for a robust new contract with the airline, emphasizing the need for better wages, enhanced safety protocols, and more comprehensive healthcare benefits. Despite employing over 10,000 vital technicians who ensure the safe operation of United’s fleet, the airline has been slow to advance negotiations, achieving only one tentative contract agreement after two rounds of bargaining.

“United Airlines has one of the largest fleets in the world and rakes in billions in profits every year. But the dividends do not trickle down to the workers responsible for keeping United’s planes in the air,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “United thinks that they can divide and take advantage of workers by dragging its feet. The Teamsters have other plans. I’m proud that our members at United are fighting as one and letting the company know that enough is enough. We will secure a record contract, despite United’s games and ongoing disrespect.”

“The Teamsters at United Airlines are the best in the industry and abide by the highest standards under the FAA. United AMTs put their credentials and personal safety on the line every day so that passengers can enjoy safe flights and United can bask in its status as a major international carrier,” said Teamsters Airline Division Director Chris Griswold. “We are demanding United recognizes the vital role the Teamsters play in the company’s success by agreeing to a strong new contract its AMTs have earned.”

The Teamsters organized rallies at airports in cities including Boston, Chicago, Denver, Dulles, VA, Houston, Los Angeles, Newark, NJ, San Francisco, and Orlando and Tampa, FL. These actions come shortly after United Airlines flight attendants voted overwhelmingly, with a 99.99 percent majority, to authorize a strike. Like the Teamsters, flight attendants are advocating for improvements such as top-tier compensation, broader healthcare coverage, and stronger safety measures for both employees and passengers.

“We aren’t just fighting for a contract that determines the next five years. We are demanding an industry-leading contract that will change the status quo for the next generation of United AMTs,” said Martin Acosta, a seven-year United technician and a member of Teamsters Local 769. “United is going to have to recruit younger technicians to replace veteran AMTs who will retire in the coming years. Without a game-changing agreement, United is sending a message that it doesn’t value our work to keep its planes and customers safe.”

Established in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million dedicated workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico.

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