By a majority vote of
65%, the pilots passed the agreement which will resolve several contractual roadblocks
pertaining to implementation of PBS. PBS is a computerized pilot scheduling system that
prepares each pilot’s flight schedule based on his or her personal preferences.
“The ratification of this
agreement is a milestone for America West’s pilots,” said Yvette Freeman,
communications specialist for the Air Line Pilots Association unit at America West.
“For the first time ever, America West pilots will have direct input into how their
flight schedules are prepared.”
In light of other recent developments
at the airline, this ratification comes at a time when America West management seems to be
shifting its focus to improving its operations and boosting employee morale.
“This vote sends a clear signal
that America West’s pilots and management are ready to work together to improve the
workplace environment at the airline,” said Captain Donald Steinman, chairman of the
union’s Master Executive Council. “Management’s commitment to bring some
heavy maintenance back in-house, in addition to the offer of re-hiring mechanics who lost
their jobs in December 1995, sends signals of the best kind to all America West employees.
The Air Line Pilots Association,
International represents 50,000 pilots at 50 airlines in Canada and the U.S., including
more than 1,500 at America West.
###
| America West Pilots Ratify PBS Agreement |
||
| September 24, 1998 PHOENIX – The pilots of America West have ratified an agreement with the airline to |