Local 512

December 20, 2025

My fellow 512 family,

American Airlines has begun expanding the use of new gate, pass, and entry technologies at DFW, with additional rollouts expected in 2026. While the company promotes these systems as “efficiency improvements.” Your union believes members must understand how this technology works, how it may impact our jobs, and how it will affect our passenger service agents if not adequately regulated.

Why is the company pushing this? The company claims these tools will speed up boarding and gate access, reduce delays and staffing costs, improve security and passenger flow, and finally create data-driven efficiency at the gate. 

Why is it a concern for union members?  Automation at gates raises fears about reduced staffing levels, erosion of job classifications, and management attempting to assign union work to machines or non-covered employees. We believe technology must support our work, not replace it. 

TWU Local 512 is not anti-technology, but we are pro-member. We believe any new technology affecting our work must be bargained appropriately, transparently, and in compliance with our contract. 

We have an update on the outcome of a paid sick leave complaint that was filed with the City of Chicago against American Airlines at O’Hare International Airport. After reviewing the complaint, the City of Chicago Office of Labor Standards (OLS) notified us that it closed the case without ruling on whether American Airlines violated the Paid Sick Leave Ordinance. The case was closed strictly for jurisdictional reasons, not because the complaint lacked merit. 

In short, because we are unionized and protected by a contract, the City cannot intervene in these matters. That does not mean our rights disappear. It means that sick leave and other contractual issues must be addressed through the contractual enforcement process.

A Presidential Grievance was filed at the same time this complaint was filed, and your local will proceed to have this moved to arbitration. TWU Local 512 will continue to protect and enforce your rights under our Collective Bargaining Agreement and will pursue all appropriate remedies available to us under federal law.

As the year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to wish each one of you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy Holiday season. This time of year, reminds us of the importance of family, friendship, and taking time to reflect on all that we have accomplished together. 

Your hard work, dedication, and commitment to one another are what make Local 512 strong. Whether you’re on the job, spending time with loved ones, or getting some well-earned rest, please know how grateful we are for everything you do throughout the year.

May this holiday season bring you peace, warmth, and joy, and may the New Year bring good health, happiness, and continued solidarity. 

Stay safe, enjoy the holidays, and thank you for being part of the Local 512 family.

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!