Southwest’s Expert Aircraft Maintenance Technicians Get The Contract They Deserve

AMFA members overwhelmingly vote to approve the new tentative agreement

The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) is proud to announce our more than 2,500 members have overwhelmingly approved the new tentative agreement (TA) by a vote of 94.62% and with 93.62% participation, and the new contract with Southwest Airlines will be ratified immediately.

This process has been a long and arduous one, with nearly seven years of negotiations. But our negotiating committee was proud to recommend the TA which was crafted last month.

There is still work to be done as this new contract is implemented, and the long overdue raise our expert aircraft maintenance technicians have earned is put into practice. However the highlights of the deal, as it stands now, are as follows:

• The snap-up to AMTs base wage will be 20%.
• The smoothed base rate increase going back to 2012 is 2.78%.
• The ratification bonus is $160 million.

We know how important it is to set the standard for the industry, and reward the work Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) do, not just at Southwest Airlines, but throughout the country. This work is crucial, and having it done properly and expertly is vital to the success of the airlines and to the safety of the public.

“I extend my gratitude for the patience, support and professionalism by our Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMTs). The Negotiating Committee worked with dedicated perseverance to achieve this agreement over the 6+ years,” said Bret Oestreich, National Director for AMFA. “This agreement represents a justifiable increase in pay and benefits, protections in headcount, work-rules and work normally performed by our unified members for decades. This shows the importance of our unified members and AMFA strength at the bargaining table. The increases are earned as compensation for their daily responsibilities as AMTs during a time of economic growth, experience and knowledge on the 737 and record profits for this radically changing airline industry.”

Our focus now shifts to working together with Southwest Airlines, as we do the important work of restoring the safety culture Southwest Airlines has traditionally been known for. The legacy of Herb Kelleher is so important to each and every member of Southwest Airlines’ AMT community, and we know it is part of our job to lead the charge.

Thank you to our members for their patience and perseverance. We now move forward with our mission — because safety in the air begins with quality maintenance on the ground.