30/07/10, 05:40:05 EDT

  e-mail this article

Pilots' Union Responds to Announcement That AMR Will Sell American Eagle

eTN

Captain Herb Mark, chairman of the American Eagle pilots union, a unit of the Air Line Pilots Association, Int'l, released the following statement in response to today's announcement that AMR Holdings will explore the sale of its wholly owned subsidiary American Eagle.

"This afternoon, American Eagle management and AMR Holdings have announced their intention to sell American Eagle, the nation's largest regional airline. At this time we are awaiting a meeting between ALPA and management at which time they can explain the business rationale for this decision. We fully expect management to keep us informed every step of the way and welcome our participation. This will ensure that any transaction results in a viable airline that honors the commitment of union pilots.


"Any new ownership would be subject to our existing collective bargaining agreement, which contains protections for our pilots in the event of a sale or merger.


"Regardless of who owns American Eagle, nothing is more important to ALPA than resolving the issues that have created strained labor relations between the pilots and management. For several years pilots have been forced to fly more hours in a day because of understaffing. The staffing shortage has led to exhausting flight schedules, causing our pilots to sacrifice needed rest in order to meet the company's bottom line.


"ALPA wants our management, potential buyers, and the flying public to know that the American Eagle pilots are largely responsible for the continued success of this airline. We fully expect that our sacrifices will be respected and rewarded as we become a partner in whatever lies ahead.


"We welcome this kind of cultural change. We will keep a close eye on the developments concerning the sale of American Eagle, and will carefully evaluate the details as they become available."

 Printable Version  | published Nov 28, 2007