United says no disruptions as mechanics, flight attendants negotiate contracts

United Airlines said there are no disruptions to its operations as mechanics and flight attendants negotiate contracts. United aircraft maintenance technicians (AMT), represented by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters had ""rallied for a strong new contract"" on August 30, 2024. The union is demanding improved wages, higher safety standards, and more comprehensive health care coverage. The rally is off-duty mechanics conduction an informational picket and, therefore, causing no disruption to United's operations. ""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,"" said Teamsters airline division director Chris Griswold. A spokesperson for United said: ""We are eager to reach an agreement with the Teamsters, which represents United mechanics. We are actively talking with them as we work toward their next contract."" The Teamsters are working under a current contract, which they approved in January 2023. This contract does not become amendable until December 2024. It comes after United flight attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA), voted 99.99% yes on a strike authorisation. President of the United chapter of AFA Ken Diaz said: ""We are the face of United Airlines and planes don’t take off without us. As Labor Day travel begins, United management is reminded what’s at stake if we don’t get this done."" United said it it is working towards an ""industry-leading agreement"" for its flight attendants. Negotiations are being held this week and every month through November. ""To be clear, there is no work stoppage or labour disruption,"" the United spokesperson continued. ""Instead, off-duty flight attendants are exercising their right to conduct an informational picket. Federal law bars a strike until after a lengthy process that includes a release from mediation, which can only be granted by the National Mediation Board."" The spokesperson added that United and the AFA have been ""actively engaged"" in negotiations and the airline is ""eager"" to reach a deal.