• ExpressJet [XJT] and its pilots represented by a unit of the Air Line Pilots Association reached an agreement last week after more than two years of mediated negotiations (CRAN, Oct. 4). The terms of the accord, which needs to be submitted to the 2,100 pilots for ratification, were not released. In addition to a pay raise, the pact contains changes in work rules, job protection and vacation time. The contract became amendable in October 2002.

  ExpressJet Airlines and the Teamsters also reached a new contract covering 1,000 maintenance technicians. The terms of the new agreement were not released. The pact expires in 2009.

• The mechanics at Independence Air, represented by the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, want to end federally mediated negotiations that after two years of talking have not produced an accord. By seeking to end mediation, the union is initiating the first of many steps it would take to stage a walk out. Press reports indicate that the airline, a unit of Flyi [FLYI], is seeking 30 percent wage increase while the company has offered a 4 percent raise.
• The flight attendants at ATA Airlines [ATAH], the parent of Chicago Express, have agreed to a 10 percent pay cut as part of an effort to keep ATA out of bankruptcy. The pact needs to be submitted to the 1,900 ATA flight attendants for ratification. The membership rejected earlier concessions.

Source: Company reports