Teamsters Flight Simulator Technicians Ratify New Contract with Southwest Airlines

Union Wins Industry-Leading Contract at Carrier, Secures Big Gains on Pay and Benefits

(DALLAS) - Teamsters Local 19, representing 54 flight simulator technicians, have voted by 66 percent to ratify a four-year contract with Southwest Airlines. The new contract, negotiated with rank-and-file Teamsters, includes a 23 percent wage increase, a reduction in years needed to reach the top pay scale from 12 years to nine, improved retirement and maternity/paternity leave benefits, and significant ratification bonuses.

"I'm extremely proud of our members for securing this phenomenal four-year contract," said Jesse Ruiz, President of Local 19. "This game-changing agreement is a testament to the strength of the Teamsters' power. We fought hard for our demands, and our unity allowed us to secure this amazing deal."

In addition to major improvements in pay and benefits, Southwest Airlines Teamsters secured an engineering classification to their work group. This provision gives the technicians responsible for the maintenance, repair, and overhaul of the carrier's flight simulators a faster track to higher base wages and assurances that engineers are hired from within the Teamsters before external options are considered. Protections for specialists, which previously were not included, were also added to the contract.

"From the industry-leading pay increase and benefits to safety and job security, this is the best deal this group has ever seen. It's one of the best contracts in the aviation industry today," said Arnold Villarreal, Local 19 Trustee. "This is a well-deserved victory for the dedicated Teamsters who make this airline safe and successful." Teamsters Local 19 represents aviation workers throughout Texas. For more information, go to teamsterslocal19.org/.

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