MEC Hotline

1. System Board of Adjustment
2. Mixed Signals
3. Disabled Retired Pilots
4. Yes Sir, No Sir, Three Bags Full
5. Secret Codes: The Rest of the Story
6. AIG and America West
7. Things are Looking UP at AWA
8. Professionalism

System Board
The System Board of Adjustment met in special session last Wednesday,
July 17th. System Board Chairman Tom Nehez persuaded the company to consolidate
[almost 70] pending cases and to bypass the four-member board directly
to arbitration/mediation for a number of other disputes. As a result of
these streamlined procedures, we are pleased to report that the board
was successful in processing an unprecedented number of cases. Wins, Losses?
No. The purpose of this special session was to move cases that would obviously
deadlock toward eventual arbitration. Special kudos must go to Board member
Peter Blandino and Grievance Committee Chairman Jon Dudeck for their extensive
preparation and professional presentation of the cases.
This is a quantum shift in the company’s philosophy of doing business
with the union. It breaks new ground that we hope both sides will continue
to exploit in addressing grievance resolution.

Mixed Signals
In the cyber-world of instant communications, the “word,” the
“scoop,” the “dope,” and “inside skinny”
can get out at the speed of light. Unfortunately, as was the case the
past few days, the message can be misinterpreted. And that message, whether
correct or not, cannot be kept from the prying eyes of the company, the
press, or the Federal Government. As the MEC has often stated, when we
can disclose, we will disclose. But when we do disclose, there will be
no question that the news release, plans or announcement will come directly
from the MEC. Do not accept any rumor, gossip, lounge talk or web board
talk as fact. Call the MEC and get the facts. Listen to the hotline and
get the facts. Read your e-mails and get the facts.

Disabled Retired Pilots
As you aware, the company has eliminated the medical benefits subsidy
for retired disabled pilots. These pilots have not been forgotten. System
Board Chairman Tom Nehez authored a six-point plan, which the MEC has
adopted in the effort to deal with this violation of Arbitrator Eaton’s
order. ALPA National is researching the possibilities of direct access
to Federal Court. We should have a complete answer to that option early
next week.

Communications-wise, we have group e-mailed the “22” 11 times
since this situation began. They will receive reports as new developments
warrant. None of the six options is being ignored despite what rumors
may be circulating. This will not be an easy win. The MEC cannot and will
not guarantee a victory, but the MEC will not slide this critical issue
to the back burner. Because at Council 62, even if you are no longer a
voting member, your rights will be protected and your voice will be heard.


Yes Sir, No Sir, Three Bags Full
This just in from John McIlvenna: “I just received a complaint from
one of our commuting pilots that he was not allowed to go thru security
with 3 bags – his flight bag, his rollaboard [sic], and another small
bag that many pilots carry. The CSR manning security apparently told the
pilot that this was a new rule and that all non-revs who were not in uniform
would have to comply. The pilot went to the bathroom and changed into
his uniform and proceeded through security.

Somebody needs to point out to CS that almost 50% of our pilots commute
because of the one domicile and that they should not be discriminating
against them carrying a small third bag or computer case or such thru
security while commuting to/from work in civvies.”

Professionalism
Professionalism cuts both ways. In the aftermath of the MIA incident,
the company pleaded with the MEC to give them some breathing space on
the weekly hotlines. They pleaded for some accommodation. We gave them
the space they needed. We put out two “we’re all in this together”
hotlines. We stayed away from the media after the incident, despite numerous
calls and cameras at the ALPA office. We stayed away from the media even
after the CEO stated that the crew overreacted in removing a passenger,
when in fact the gate agents and managers removed the passenger. They
didn’t get bashed on Jay Leno; I did and you did. And in spite of the
efforts we exerted last quarter, contributing to AWA’s near industry leading
performance and their operating profit, we still have to deal with “parking
violations” and cuts in medical benefits for retired, disabled pilots.
While the parking lot issue may be in the realm of a minor irritant, the
reduction of benefits for disabled pilots is a very serious matter. I
call on the CEO of America West Airlines to take control of this issue
and work with the MEC for a fair, equitable and timely resolution to this
issue. Mr. Parker, there is a reasonable solution to this problem. Our
office phone number is 602-306-4100. Let’s work together to solve this
issue tomorrow.

Meanwhile, despite the apparent glitches at the table this week, the MEC
is reminding you that we are back on track. No secret codes here: the
message from the MEC is loud and clear: Obey the FARs, obey the FOM and
follow the contract. When faced with one of those gray areas or even not
so gray areas, follow the advice of former MEC Chairman Don Steinman:
“Fly like a pilot, think like a lawyer. Fly it and grieve it.”

As of today, we have 22 pilots on furlough and over 940 contributions
to FPL. Thank you for your support and for the opportunity to serve.