ANCHORAGE- Aircraft maintenance technicians, maintenance controllers, and other employees at Alaska Airlines (AS), represented by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), have approved a new five-year contract.
The negotiations, spanning over 12 months, have resulted in significant enhancements, including increased pay, augmented retirement contributions, and improvements in quality of life.
Alaska Airlines Technicians Accept New Contract
With the conclusion of this recent agreement, Alaska Airlines has successfully finalized seven contracts across six represented groups since 2022.
CEO Ben Minicucci expressed, “Our aircraft technicians’ expertise, professionalism, and dedication are unparalleled. I am proud to see them operating under a new contract just four months after the expiration of their previous one. This contract acknowledges the vital contributions of our technicians, enhances their quality of life, and strengthens Alaska’s groundwork for long-term prosperity.”
Bret Oestreich, the AMFA National President, remarked, “This agreement not only entails justified increases in pay, benefits, and quality of life but also provides our members with a framework for advancing their careers with Alaska Airlines.”
“Thanks to our negotiating committee, we managed to secure safeguards regarding headcount, work rules, and job security for tasks performed by our members over the years. During the bargaining process, AMFA diligently advocated for all its members’ interests across various classifications, underscoring the significance of our members remaining united and showcasing AMFA’s prowess at the negotiating table,” Oestreich elaborated.
“Our focus now pivots towards collaborating with Alaska Airlines to attract and retain competent, skilled professionals, and this contract, setting new standards in the industry, will significantly facilitate that endeavor.”
Improved Wage, Healthcare Funds and More
As of the amendable date of the preceding contract (October 17, 2023), the newly ratified contract includes the following provisions:
- Wage enhancements featuring a top-of-scale rate of $65.85 for technician classifications.
- Quality of life enhancements to schedules aimed at minimizing disruptions, incorporating seniority for shift times to acknowledge length of service.
- Augmented retirement contributions and caps on healthcare costs.
- Amendments in language allow for enhanced productivity.
It’s worth noting that the previous contract with AMFA reached its amendable date in October 2023. In the airline industry, contracts do not expire; once they become amendable, the current contract remains in effect until a new agreement is ratified.
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