On this episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast, Bret Oesterich, National President of the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), joined the show to discuss the state of the aviation industry, ongoing labor challenges and the impending merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines.
Oesterich began by focusing on the current challenges of providing proper aviation safety and maintenance. The industry is facing “trying times,” he said, with an increased rate of incidents and close calls that have raised concern among both professionals and passengers. Oesterich attributed some of these problems to workforce shortages and a diminishing pool of experienced technicians, resulting in less seasoned hires being tasked with complex responsibilities. Factors such as retirements, which were accelerated by the pandemic, and crowded airspace have heightened the pressure on maintenance crews, making the union’s focus on training, regulatory compliance and ongoing safety initiatives more crucial than ever, he said.
As Oesterich explained, AMFA stands out as the only U.S. union focused exclusively on representing aircraft maintenance technicians and related professionals. This narrow charter enables AMFA to avoid potential conflicts of interest common in larger, multi-craft unions, allowing for more effective advocacy of craft-specific safety measures and labor protections. Oesterich highlighted the intensive training requirements for entry into the profession and emphasized the union’s role in legislative efforts to maintain rigorous licensing and safety standards.
Finally, Oesterich discussed the Alaska-Hawaiian merger and its implications for union members. He outlined the complexities involved in integrating two distinct collective bargaining agreements, blending seniority lists and ensuring that the resulting agreement uplifts all workers, particularly those from Hawaiian Airlines who currently fall behind in pay by nearly $28,000 per year compared to their Alaska Airlines counterparts. AMFA’s approach includes built-in wage review and “rising tide” pay protections, aiming to ensure no workers are left behind in the transition. Ultimately, Oesterich said diligent union representation and strong safety protocols are not only vital for workers but also serve the interests of the flying public by maintaining high standards for airline reliability and safety.
For more from Oesterich, listen to the full episode of the America’s Work Force Union Podcast above.