July 19, 2005
Northwest Airlines is bracing for a strike after its mechanics voted to
authorize a walkout. Both the union and the company have requested the
two sides be released from arbitration. The National Mediation Board
has been refereeing the contentious labor negotiations.
"Our members have expressed their extreme frustration with Northwest's unreasonable demands and refusal to take the negotiating process seriously," O.V. Delle-Femine, National Director of the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, said.
The company issued a statement saying it still hoped to sign a contract with its mechanics, but was making preparations to fly its full schedule, regardless of whether there is a strike.
So far, Northwest has gained $300 million in concessions from pilots and managers, and is still seeking $148 million from its flight attendants.
The airline asked mechanics to give up $176 million in pay. The union has offered about $143 million.
Northwest is among the large carriers struggling for financial stability in the face of rising fuel costs and more aggressive competition.
Complicating matters is its under-funded pension, which is now $3.8 billion in the red. The airline is currently lobbying members of Congress to allow it to spread out its pension payment
