Local 512

January 30, 2026

My fellow 512 family,

How can American Airlines say it’s performing well while the people doing the work see such a weak return? A poor profit-sharing payout isn’t just a number; it’s a signal. We were also told that when the airline succeeded, labor would share in that success.

In reality, cost pressures are being borne by labor; our workgroups are expected to absorb more risk, pressure, and responsibility without a fair share of the upside. You can’t ask ramp and maintenance to operate at maximum stress, minimum staffing, and then tell them the profit just isn’t there?

We did not agree to build the largest airline in the world, so staffing stays thin, equipment stays old, safety margins shrink, and profit sharing becomes symbolic instead of meaningful! Holding the company to commitments that justified the merger, so speaking up about profit sharing, staffing, and safety is not complaining; it’s what was promised.

Following American Airlines' recent financial disclosure, all union workgroups are calling for the removal of CEO Robert Isom. His leadership is too focused on cost control and incremental changes rather than big-picture strategy. It leaves the airline stuck in the middle. He is chasing rather than leading the industry.

Arbitration update: Awaiting a decision from the arbitrator for Envoy Hangar three. Updates will be shared as soon as information becomes available.

Additional updates: We’ve gotten the green light in Chicago to replace three GSE mechanics due to retirement. Positions are to be posted internally and externally if needed. There are still concerns about facility maintenance staffing levels remaining below operational needs. Tech Crew Chief positions have been posted, but remain unfilled in Chicago. 

Equipment Updates: Four hybrid deicer trucks; two are operational at the deicing pad and two are out of service: one due to gasoline mistakenly added to the diesel tank and the other due to burner issues. 

Chicago (ORD) continues to face shortages of non-power equipment, especially bag carts. Plans to acquire 110 pieces of equipment, including 50 bag carts, were discussed. Two new huffs were recently delivered to improve pushback operations.

Chicago (ORD) is preparing for expanded spring and summer flight schedules, equipment, and staffing remain a concern but are being actively addressed.

Since the introduction of the GSAP (Ground Safety Action Program), many members have raised concerns about how safety issues are reported, tracked, and used. Your concerns have been heard.

As a result, Local 512 has made safety reporting a priority and has developed its own Local 512 safety reporting system. The Local Safety Report app is currently in the testing and review phase and is being evaluated by our safety coordinators to ensure it works as intended and protects our members.

Once finalized, the safety report app will be made fully available to all Local 512 members. When it is launched, it will be sent directly to the email address you have on file with the union. Our goal is to centralize safety reporting for Local 512 here in Chicago (ORD), giving your union better visibility, accountability, and the ability to advocate more effectively on your behalf.

Sincerely and fraternally,

Juan Elvira

President – TWU Local 512

TWU Local 512 is proud to announce the Local 512 app for your smartphone is available for download in the Apple store and the Google play store.
 click the iTunes or Google Play logos below to download the app today!