Southwest Meteorologists Ratify First Contract
DALLAS, June 3, 2015 /PRNewswire/ -- Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) announced today that its Meteorologists, represented by the Transport Workers Union (TWU 550), have approved their first-ever collective bargaining agreement following certification by the National Mediation Board late last year. The Company praised the efforts of the negotiating teams at a signing ceremony on Monday (June 1) and said that the inaugural agreement will provide adjusted wage-scale step increases and opportunities for individual and Company performance-based bonuses.
"I am very pleased the negotiation committees worked together to complete an agreement in such a timely manner," said Vice President Network Operations Control Matt Hafner. "This initial contract, with its benefits and protections, demonstrates the value this Team brings to Southwest and supports a Company priority to provide our Employees a stable work environment."
TWU 550 President Mike Connor said the agreement enhances collaboration between flight planning groups. "Our Meteorologists will be able to directly and proactively interact with Dispatchers. We see this opening communication channels that will benefit our Customers, our Company, and our operations, especially as we expand our International service."
Similar to agreements the Company recently reached with its Customer Service Agents and Customer Representatives, Flight Simulator Technicians, and Dispatchers, the new Meteorologist agreement aligns with the Company's mission of providing its Employees a rewarding and stable work environment, while supporting the airline's Vision of being the World's Most Loved, Most Flown, and Most Profitable Airline.
The new, four-year contract becomes amendable on June 1, 2019.
ABOUT SOUTHWEST AIRLINES CO.
In its 44th year of service, Dallas-based Southwest Airlines (NYSE: LUV) continues to differentiate itself from other air carriers with exemplary Customer Service delivered by more than 47,000 Employees to more than 100 million Customers annually. Southwest operates more than 3,600 flights a day, serving 94 destinations across the United States and six additional countries. Southwest service to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, begins on June 7, 2015. Service to Belize City, Belize, begins October 15, 2015 and Liberia, Costa Rica, on November 1, 2015, both routes are subject to foreign government approval.
Based on the U.S. Department of Transportation's most recent data, Southwest Airlines is the nation's largest carrier in terms of originating domestic passengers boarded. The Company operates the largest fleet of Boeing aircraft in the world, the majority of which are equipped with satellite-based WiFi providing gate-to-gate connectivity while over the United States. That connectivity enables Customers to use their personal devices to access streaming music provided by Beats Music or to view video on-demand movies and television shows, as well as nearly 20 channels of free, live TV compliments of our valued partners. Southwest is the only major U.S. airline to offer bags fly free® to everyone (first and second checked pieces of luggage, size and weight limits apply, some airlines may allow free checked bags on select routes or for qualified circumstances), and there are no change fees, though fare differences might apply. In 2014, the airline proudly unveiled a bold new look: Heart. The new aircraft livery, airport experience, and logo, showcase the dedication of Southwest Employees to connect Customers with what's important in their lives.
From its first flights on June 18, 1971, Southwest Airlines launched an era of unprecedented affordability in air travel described by the U.S. Department of Transportation as "The Southwest Effect," a lowering of fares and increase in passenger traffic whenever the carrier enters new markets. With 42 consecutive years of profitability, Southwest is one of the most honored airlines in the world, known for a triple bottom line approach that contributes to the carrier's performance and productivity, the importance of its People and the communities they serve, and an overall commitment to efficiency and the planet. The 2014 Southwest Airlines One Report™ can be found at SouthwestOneReport.com.
Book Southwest Airlines' low fares online at Southwest.com or by phone at 800-I-FLY-SWA.
SOURCE Southwest Airlines
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