Source: Chicago Labor

On Friday, over 500 members of the Airlines Association of Flight Attendants-CWA and Air Line Pilots Association conducted an informational picket line at O'Hare International Airport as part of a global action in 16 different locations in response to United Airlines management's failure to negotiate a new contract. January 7, 2011 marks the last date it is amendable to enter into a contract with the United Airlines Association of Flight Attendants-CWA and December 31, 2010 was the one-year mark for the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA).

For over 8 years and 8 days, members employed by United Airlines have dealt with concessions and work rule changes since the 2003 bankruptcy that resulted in the reduction of labor costs by at least $2.56 billion annually for six years. The merger with Continental and United Airlines presented an opportunity for the companies to initiate a fresh start however, over ninety-nine days have passed since the merger and members do not have a contract.

“Patience is no longer an option,” stated Gregory E. Davidowitch, President of United Airlines Master Executive Council of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA. “To date, we have yet to receive proposals on key issues and the proposals we have received are largely concessionary in nature.” Members remain resolute in concluding negotiations centered on pay, benefits and work rule improvements that are commensurate not only to the priorities identified by United Flight Attendants in proposals, but are also reflective of the potential associated with a world-class global airline.

"We're all in this together and we are demonstrating our commitment to get a contract..Now", said Thomas J. Sesko, President of United Airlines Council 8 - Chicago of the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA.

“The time has come for United management to step up and bring an end to these long, arduous negotiations by offering our Pilots, Flight Attendants and other employees the wages, work rules and job protections we have earned through years of sacrifice, dedication and professionalism," said Captain Wendy Morse, chairman of the United Chapter of the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) in voicing her support for the Flight Attendants.