Union Courts American Airlines Mechanics With Cookout

As American Airlines gets ready to merge with US Airways, local mechanics are considering a change, too--in union representation.

The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) was in town Wednesday to make their case, hosting a cookout and answering questions.

Right now, the Tulsa mechanics are members of the Transport Workers Union. They're also being courted by the Teamsters, but AMFA says it is the best option for local mechanics

"We have to go to a class and craft union," said Chuck Schalk, of AMFA. "This industrial union is not working and corporate America is picking them apart. We have to go to class and craft and negotiate from a position of strength."

"It's a destruction of our profession, is what's been happening, and that's happening, because we've all been divided and we all need to unite under one union," said American Airlines employee Dave Stewart.

Not every Tulsa mechanic wants to change unions, though.

American Airlines mechanics have been represented by the TWU since 1946.

8/7/2012 Related Story: Two Tulsa TWU Units Ratify New Agreement With American Airlines