CHICAGO - United Airlines and its ramp workers' and mechanics' unions intensified contract negotiations Thursday, pushing to settle their differences before a bankruptcy court rules on their high-risk showdown over labor costs.
Against the urgent backdrop of strike threats by three employee groups, United held separate contract talks at local hotels with the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers even as a courtroom trial pitting management versus employees unfolded.
The Machinists' union said recent progress pointed to a likely agreement by the time the trial ends next week, which would avert the need for a ruling likely to carry grave consequences for both the airline and its workers.
"The only place this is going to get resolved is at the bargaining table, not in the courtroom," said Randy Canale, president of IAM District 141, representing 20,000 United baggage handlers and ramp and public-contact workers.
United's chief financial officer, Jake Brace, was upbeat about progress in the contract negotiations and the prospects for settlements.
more here:
http://story.news.yahoo.com/s/ap/united_airlinesUNION YES! :D :D :D
:dem:
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