SWAPA Focused on Southwest Pilots' Careers

AirTran acquisition leads to upcoming labor discussions

DALLAS, Sept. 27 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- With Southwest Airlines poised to acquire AirTran Airways, Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association (SWAPA) will continue preparations for an intense period of change for both the Company and the Union.  As part of this airline acquisition, SWAPA's primary interests will be to negotiate a transition agreement with Southwest Airlines and to incorporate pilots from the AirTran seniority list onto the Southwest Airlines seniority list.

"We are cautiously optimistic of the potential fleet growth opportunity connected to this acquisition and its subsequent effect on our pilots' career progression," said Capt. Carl Kuwitzky, SWAPA President. "As we work on our portion of this acquisition, no stone will be left unturned to protect SWAPA pilots' interests."

The SWAPA Negotiating Committee and Merger/Acquisition team is resourced, trained, experienced and already at work.  SWAPA has retained an investment banking firm to provide counsel and expertise to value the transaction, identify synergies created by the transaction and advise during bargaining efforts.  The Association also has retained an excellent legal firm experienced in all facets of law relating to mergers, acquisitions and seniority list integration.

"SWAPA has forged a working relationship with the AirTran MEC leadership and today we contacted them and will be meeting soon," continued Capt. Kuwitzky. "We will be working with the AirTran group and both sides have many challenges ahead.  SWAPA will work to make this transition as smooth as possible for our pilot group."

SOURCE Southwest Airlines Pilots' Association