Local 512

March 21, 2026

My fellow 512 family,

This year marks a major milestone for all of us, 80 years of the Transport Workers Union Local 512 standing strong in Chicago. Eighty years of showing up, Eighty years of fighting back, Eighty years of protecting one another on the job. This isn’t just a celebration of the past; it’s a recognition of the work that continues every single day on the floor, on the ramp, and in the shop. 

This anniversary belongs to you. To the members who came before us and built this local. To those working today who keep it stronger. Here’s to 80 years, and we’re not done yet.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what’s happening right now at O’Hare International Airport and how it may affect our operation. 

Both UA and AA have been aggressively adding flights in Chicago. Now, FAA limits are forcing both carriers to scale back. Some routes and frequencies may be reduced. Adjustments will impact daily operations on the ground. The ongoing conflict involving Iran is driving up fuel prices worldwide. Airlines are cutting less profitable flights. United Airlines has already begun targeted reductions. We will see airlines tightening their operations.

We are monitoring all changes closely. If you see: Staffing below base levels, unsafe working conditions, management cutting corners, report it to your union leadership immediately.

This is an important reminder that all company-required lessons must be completed by March 25, 2026.

Please make every effort to get these done as soon as possible. Failure to complete your lessons on time. A result of being locked out from punching in at the start of your shift. The company has been enforcing this, so do not put yourself in that position.

We strongly encourage everyone to start early and stay consistent. Even if your schedule is tight, log in and make an effort daily. The company does track when you begin and how often you attempt your lessons. Waiting until the last few days and claiming you didn’t have time may result in disciplinary action.

Protect yourself: Start your lessons early, make regular attempts, and keep a record of your activity. If you need time during your shift, request it from your CSM. Documenting every request can make a difference if any issues come up later.

We continue to see a serious lack of communication on the ramp, particularly between gate crews and line CSMs, as well as control and Managers on Duty (MODs). These are the very individuals who should be actively monitoring the radio and ensuring that concerns raised by Crew Chiefs and gate personnel are being addressed in a timely manner.

This communication breakdown is unacceptable and cannot continue. When crews call for assistance, clarification, or support, there must be accountability and a response from management leadership.

We urge all members to continue to report communication failures, document times, channels, and individuals involved when possible. Bring these issues forward to the union leadership.

Clear communication is critical for safety, efficiency, and the protection of our members on the job. We will continue to address this with the company, but your documentation and reports are key in holding them accountable.

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!