ALPA Allocates $2M for Pinnacle Pilots

Pinnacle Airlines pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), received access to $2 million from the union's Major Contingency Fund (MCF) as negotiations with management on a new collective bargaining agreement passed the 27-month mark. The allocation provides Pinnacle pilots with the needed resources to fully prepare themselves and their families for a strike in the event that a fair agreement cannot be reached at the bargaining table. The Pinnacle pilots began contract negotiations in February 2005, and their contract became amendable in May 2005. A mediator with the National Mediation Board has been helping in the negotiations since August 2006. Although most sections of the contract have been tentatively settled, Pinnacle pilots and management remain far apart on scope, work rules, and compensation.