Bargaining Updates

Bargaining Update 8/4

Your Union Bargaining Team met with Piedmont Airlines on Tuesday, July 29th in an all-day session. Although we have agreed to go to mediation, both sides decided to continue contract negotiations.

Article 13 – Compensation was the discussion item for today. While both sides remain far apart on overall economics, we used today’s session to focus on closing the gap on a few unresolved verbiage issues within the article. Some small movement was made, but due to the significant differences regarding base pay increases, premium differentials and longevity pay, both sides agreed to take these issues directly to mediation.

As we’ve previously reported, the negotiations have reached a deadlock on core compensation issues. Because of that, the National Mediation Board (NMB) has officially assigned a federal mediator – Mr. Jack Stephan – to oversee the next phase of negotiations.

We are currently awaiting proposed mediation dates.

What Mediation Means Under the Railway Labor Act

Under the Railway Labor Act (RLA), which governs labor relations in the airline and railroad industries, mediation is a required step when the union and the company cannot reach an agreement on their own. A neutral mediator from the National Mediation Board (NMB) works with both parties to try and facilitate a fair resolution.

Thumbnail of RLA video

This does not mean negotiations are over. In fact, mediation often brings progress. However, it’s important to understand that we are not permitted to strike, picket, or take job actions unless the NMB declares an impasse and formally releases both parties from mediation—a process that can take time.

For our members, this means:

  • We must remain UNITED and MOBILIZED. Your support builds pressure and moves the needle at the table.
  • We can continue to show strength and solidarity through mobilization activities that raise awareness of our fight.
  • We cannot legally strike or stop work without permission from the NMB.

What’s Next:

  • We are currently awaiting mediation dates from Mr. Jack Stephan.
  • Your bargaining team will continue to meet and prepare thoroughly for mediation sessions.
  • Regular updates will be shared throughout the process to keep you informed.

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We need YOU to Stay Engaged. Stay Informed. Stay United. This is your contract. Your solidarity is our strongest tool at the table.

UNITED WE BARGAIN - DIVIDED WE BEG!!!

In solidarity,

Your CWA Bargaining Team