Labor Talks Begin at Hawker Beechcraft
Kerry Lynch | Aviation Week
Aug 25, 2010
In an unusual move, Hawker Beechcraft has begun official negotiations with the International Association of Machinists IAM on a new contract, a year before the existing contract was set to expire.
The Wichita plane maker had been pushing the union to make an early return to the bargaining table, citing a challenging economic environment and the possible need to move most work out of Wichita to save costs.
But the IAM initially held off, saying the machinists union was not willing to open negotiations “until we believe there could be a realistic path to success and job security.” The union, however, continued a dialogue with the company, and on Aug. 13 notified members that it would relent, saying the decision was not easy. “We have decided the consequences of inaction would be grim, drastically affecting the employment levels and the future of the Wichita operations,” the IAM told members.
The IAM adds, “The situation with Hawker Beechcraft is serious, and they are looking at several possibilities to move jobs from Wichita.” Noting the company is asking for cost savings, flexibility and a longer-term agreement, the union says states such as Mississippi and Louisiana are attempting to lure the company away from Wichita. “We must face reality and attempt to deal with it,” the IAM says. “We must look at possible changes to enable Hawker Beechcraft to make a commitment to our city.”
The negotiations are expected to result in a proposal that workers would have a chance to either approve or reject. If the workers reject the proposal, the existing contract would remain intact. “There will not be a strike vote taken, and we cannot strike on this proposal,” the IAM warns.
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