WASHINGTON, D.C. — Teamster mechanics at Continental Airlines today announced their strong opposition to actions by the company that would undercut union jobs by subcontracting with a foreign vendor. Foreign-owned Cascade Aerospace recently announced a 10-year contract with Continental for aircraft maintenance. The agreement comes at a time when the Teamsters are currently in negotiations with Continental for a national contract on the same type of aircraft maintenance work.
“This action by Continental has severely affected our negotiations for a fair contract,” said Ray Benning, Teamsters Airline Division Director. “Our members feel their job security and the well being of their families are being threatened.”
The contract between Cascade and Continental specifically allows for maintenance on Boeing 737-300/500 aircraft. The agreement is for 10 years, yet Continental has expressed that the 737-300/500 aircraft would be phased out within the next three to four years. With such a long service contract, Continental’s intent to subcontract union jobs is clear.
“Continental Airlines put their hands out to accept bailout money from the federal government,” Benning added. “Now they are spending that money with foreign companies and trying to undercut American jobs. This is nothing short of unconscionable and the Teamsters will fight them every step of the way.”
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents more than 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States and Canada.