1. Ebola Update: As concern about this outbreak continues to grow, information is coming out from more and more sources. While that is true, the message seems to be the same. Don't panic, learn more about the disease and get prepared for what to do IF it makes it's way to Chicago. The company has put together a task force to deal with Ebola and any other contagious diseases that may come our way. OSHA has come out with information also and their links are below. The other link is for passengers suspected of having Ebola. This information is helpful for our lav drivers who may still have to access the cabin to complete their duties. Lastly, there's an attachment above as to what the City Of Chicago's response is in the case of an arriving aircraft with a suspected Ebola infected passenger. This information is to inform and educate you and not meant to scare you. Our goal is to inform you with credible information to ensure your safety and not to sensationalize this issue. We take it seriously as should you. We will stay on top of any relevant information about this issue and share it with you when it becomes available.
2. Joint Association: update: Attached to this email is a letter from ATD director Drummond to his counterpart at the IAM Sito Pantoja. The letter outlines the TWU's position on joint negotiations training and the remaining issues regarding the joint association. The TWU has taken the position that preparation for joint negotiations can only take place after the issues outstanding from the joint association are resolved. Please click on the attachment above for more the full text of the letter.
In addition to that information is word out from the N.M.B. this week is that the agency wants more information about the differences in regards to craft and class issues admitted by both Unions when they filed to operate as a single transportation system. The agency requested that all information be filed by 1600 on October 23rd to help them come to a determination on the Unions filing.
3. Thanksgiving HO: In a meeting this week with company this week the topic of Holiday Off (HO) for members on Thanksgiving was brought up. The company will have a much reduced flight schedule starting in the early afternoon on Thanksgiving and asked if the membership would be interested in a broader HO policy on Thanksgiving. While a good idea from afar, there are concerns as to how to fairly grant HO and to how many. Additionally, how are schedules to be adjusted, if needed, and avoid any undue financial burden to the company. We will discuss this issue at our E Board meeting and membership meeting this month. I encourage you to call the Office and speak to an Officer with your input on this issue before we discuss it and come to a conclusion. The company asked for a decision by Nov. 1st.
4. Merger after-thoughts: Now that the wave of consolidation is over in the airline industry comes word in a new book that AA considered a merger with UA before UA merged with Continental. The most interesting points in this article are the proposed return of Bob Crandall to AA and the decision that as part of the merger AA would have sold it's ORD operations to Airtran. Please click on the link for the story.