Union criticizes United's emergency declaration

CHICAGO (CNN) -- The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Thursday criticized United Airlines' decision to declare an operational emergency, which allows management to impose mandatory overtime for mechanics.

"All parties want to give good service to the flying public, work together in a cooperative, solve these problems," said Tom Buffenbarger, IAMAW president. "Then, United imposes on us the operational emergency standard that is not going to solve the problem."

But United Spokesman Kurt Edenboch said the mandatory overtime falls under the parameters of United's contract with mechanics and has been required "on a very limited case by case basis."

The airline has been in contract negotiations with the mechanics since their contract expired July 12.

Edenboch said only 50 mechanics out of 10,000 worldwide have been required to work mandatory overtime since the declaration.

But Buffenbarger blamed management for not identifying the needs of the airline.

"The airports need to be upgraded. We need to hire more employees ... more ramp service so we can adequately meet the needs of the flying public."

Edenboch said "good relations" were maintained at the negotiating table.

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United Airlines
The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers

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