Introducing the SPC
Fellow Pilots,
After nearly four years of bargaining, the decision has been made to activate the Strategic Preparedness Committee (SPC). We are dedicated to ensuring that Local 2118 members are fully prepared to exercise their rights under the Railway Labor Act (RLA) to publicize our labor dispute and to conduct lawful self-help. The SPC is responsible for mobilizing, coordinating, and planning these activities and effectively communicating the union’s positions to our members, the public, and relevant stakeholders.
Our current Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) became effective on August 1, 2016, and amendable on July 30, 2021. After entering RLA Section 6 Direct Negotiations in 2021, minimal progress was achieved, and both parties agreed to jointly file an application to the National Mediation Board (NMB) for mediation services to assist the parties in reaching an agreement. The company and union fall under the RLA’s mediation procedures, which can eventually lead us to a strike. For more information about the mediation and strike process, please read this official guidance material from the NMB:
Nineteen months after filing for mediation, a Tentative Agreement that values our work, rewards our investment in Allegiant, and doesn’t trade away parts of our agreement to pay for others has yet to be achieved.
The company must come to terms with the fact that we have earned a competitive, market-based contract that reflects our invaluable contributions to the success of Allegiant. The new contract must protect and improve our working conditions and provide for the compensation we deserve. We acknowledge that we have a unique business model, but that does not mean that this professional group of pilots should accept a substandard contract. We are in no mood to “pay” for increased pay through concessions. The company wants to return to industry-leading performance. However, this will not happen without coming to the negotiating table and getting this deal done now. That’s what it will take to retain and recruit pilots. The time has run out for the company and its petty actions trying to divide us. We have been more than patient.
Allegiant Pilots, the time is NOW. We can no longer accept any further management delays, empty promises, or excuses as to why this deal is not complete. Moving forward, our approach will include communication, education, and action. The process of taking our message to the public has already begun, and we have contingency plans moving forward. Look for more about how you can get involved in the SPC’s next announcement. This is a pivotal moment in our history, and it is time for management to deliver what we deserve. Let’s stand tall and lock arms, as our unity and resolve must be our greatest strength.
To volunteer for the committee, see the “Seeking Strategic Preparedness Committee Members” post on the Announcements page at apa2118.org/.
In Unity,
Captain Aaron Adrian, Chairman
Strategic Preparedness Committee