Possible strike looms at Sea-Tac during holiday travel season
SEATAC, Wash. - There's a new threat against Christmas holiday travel out of Sea-Tac Airport - a possible strike.
The workers who fuel planes are now negotiating their first labor contract after organizing earlier this year and joining the Teamsters Union.
After months of bargaining with their employer, Swissport, there is still no deal. So the refueling workers just voted to authorize a strike.
The union claims a strike - if carried out - would halt travel out of Sea-Tac Airport. But the airport says airlines do have contingency plans, such as over-fueling planes before coming to Sea-Tac.
The union accuses Swissport of stalling, by using language the union says undercuts local standards.
Todd Lindamood, vice president of human resources for the company, tells KOMO News that Swissport is committed to providing all employees a competitive compensation package and safe work environment.
"We remain optimistic that an agreement will be reached with our fueling associates at Sea-Tac Airport and will continue to negotiate in good faith," he said.
Right now, the Teamsters vote is only to authorize a strike. And there are reports that a new bargaining session is scheduled to see if the workers and company can reach a deal to avoid a Christmas holiday strike.
Sorce : https://komonews.com/news/local/possible-strike-looms-at-sea-tac-during-holiday-travel-season
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