UPS Aircraft Mechanics Overwhelmingly Approve Strong New Contract

Vote is First Ratification Ballot in UPS Aircraft Mechanic History

LOUISVILLE, Ky., April 7, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- UPS aircraft mechanics overwhelmingly ratified a strong new contract that maintains health care benefits and provides wage increases, Teamsters Local 2727 President Bob Combine announced yesterday.

(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100127/IBTLOGO)

The contract, which runs through Nov. 1, 2013, covers nearly 1,300 aircraft mechanics and was ratified by a margin of 69 percent to 31 percent. Nearly 90 percent of members voted.

"This has been a difficult and long battle with UPS, but we didn't back down and our resolve paid off. This is a big victory for UPS aircraft mechanics," Combine said. "This contract and the vote behind it prove that even in a tough economy, the Teamsters have the clout it takes to get the job done."

The contract maintains existing health care. It also secures an average wage increase of 17 percent over the life of the contract and retroactive pay through November 2006, when the previous contract became amendable.

The ratification was the first in the local's history in which members approved a contract on the first vote – a strong sign of the strength of support for negotiators and the contract.

"The fact that the membership voted by 69 percent in favor of this contract shows the strength and the power of the Teamsters," said Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa. "This is an industry-leading contract that secures for our members the economics and benefits they deserve. That's a testament to Bob Combine, his negotiating team at Local 2727 and the strength and resolve of the membership."

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. For more information, please visit www.Teamster.org or www.local2727.org for more information.

SOURCE Teamsters Local 2727