1. Industry Comparable raises: The announcement this week of the industry comparable raises has driven many questions as to how the raise was determined. I have asked the International to provide what the hourly rates were at UA, US and DL to determine if the methodology used in computing the industry comparable wage was done properly. When that information becomes available we will share it with you.
2. Monthly D.O.T. Stats: The monthly D.O.T. statistics for June were released this week. AA again finished no better than the bottom half of statistics for on time dependability, baggage mishandlings and complaints as recorded by the D.O.T. In the category of consumer complaints, AA saw complaints rise by 46%. While reaping in billions of dollars and compensating their Executives handsomely, it is clear that their compensation is not tied to the company's performance. It's unfortunate that this team of executives is blinded by the earnings and not looking at the core statistics of the business and trying to improve the D.O.T. numbers. At some point when this bubble of record earnings ends and the company will have to compete for travelers based on their performance numbers, it would be beneficial if AA offered a good product as deemed by an outside source like the D.O.T. Please click on the link for more information.
3. Envoy Pilots Union Leaders re-elected: The current leaders of Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) re-elected their current officers to serve another two year term that begins on Sep. 8, 2015. The Envoy Pilots are mired in the midst of a 10 year agreement that was negotiated in the bankruptcy of AA. Please click on the link below for more information.
4. United to set up new ground handling company: United announced this week it will create a new company to be named United Ground Express. The new subsidiary will provide customer service, station operations and ramp and cargo service at select second- and third-tier airports throughout United's domestic route system. This new company will be staffed with non union employees that will have separate work rules and pay scales from those of United mainline, unionized employees. The article states " At times unions have been a source of friction - and a costly one - with United." Please click on the link below for more information.