Southwest Airlines Facilities Maintenance Technicians vote to ratify agreement

November 18, 2017

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) announced Nov. 16 that the Southwest Airlines Facilities Maintenance Technicians, represented by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), ratified their first collective bargaining agreement. The new five-year contract includes a complete set of work rules, wage scale, ratification bonus, and job protections.

“I am very pleased the Negotiating Teams completed an initial contract that gives our Facilities Maintenance Technicians new benefits and protections, supporting Southwest’s commitment to provide its People a stable work environment,” said Vice President, Labor Relations Russell McCrady.

“I would like to commend and express my appreciation to both negotiating committees for their dedication to this process,” said AMFA National Director Bret Oestreich. “After joint efforts by both parties in a second attempt to get the Facilities Maintenance Technicians an improved agreement, the membership made their voices heard by ratifying a new contract with increases and improvements in compensation, job security, and work rules.”

The Union reports that 59 percent of those who cast ballots voted in favor of the agreement. Negotiators for Southwest Airlines and AMFA began contract discussions in June 2013. The newly-ratified contract is effective immediately and becomes amendable in November 2022.