American Airlines: Changes At Tulsa's Maintenance Base Avoid Layoffs

American Airlines says it will shift work schedules at its Tulsa maintenance base to avoid layoffs.

The airline told union officials on Wednesday in a letter posted on the Transport Workers Union web site the shift to a seven-day schedule from a five-day schedule will save jobs.

Under the new plan, work on the airline's Boeing 737s and MD 80s will move to Tulsa from the company's maintenance facility in the Dallas/Fort Worth area.

"Enhanced seven-day coverage at either location is cost effective, saves jobs, and provides opportunities for our employees. In addition, the increased flexibility provides both organizations the ability to absorb additional work, if necessary," American Airlines stated in the letter.

American also said it's offering voluntary buyouts to Tulsa workers, but doesn't have a specific goal for how many early retirements it needs.

American Airlines: Turbulent Times