February 15, 2008

American Airlines Employees Bonus

To All Members Employed by United Airlines

Printable Version

Dear Sisters and Brothers:

Many members have asked if it is true that American Airlines paid their employees a bonus. The answer is “yes”, American management voluntarily paid a bonus to the tune of $800 per employee. American reasoned their employees have been through a lot and they wanted to acknowledge their contributions and efforts to keep the airline aloft. We understand that Northwest Airlines will also provide a bonus to their employees as well.

This is, of course, in contrast to United management’s view that to provide a bonus to their employees would be “ludicrous.” Let me just make a prediction as to UAL management’s response should you mention this issue to local management. “But our employees are receiving “profit sharing” checks… hello! The profit sharing checks are not a voluntary action and have nothing to do with acknowledging employee’s efforts and contributions in keeping UAL in the air. Profit sharing was mandated by your District 141 Negotiating Committee in our contracts and is required. Maybe UAL management should ask themselves a question… who do they believe between these airline employee groups will be most apt to provide a smile to the customer or go the extra mile?

Merger Watch

Just a brief note to advise the membership that Districts 142, 143 and your District 141 have established a special “Merger Watch” page on our web sites. We will provide current and immediate information concerning merger issues and developments as they occur. The direct link to our web site is http://www.iam141.org/Airline_Mergers.htm.

Sincerely,

S.R. (Randy) Canale
President and Directing General Chairman