(LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA) - The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has filed an application to conduct a Representation Election for 150 Qantas Airways Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AME) based in Los Angeles, CA.

Qantas AMEs reached out to the IAM late last year to explore the idea of forming a Union with the IAM.

The AMEs believe that they should be treated better by Qantas and decided collectively that forming a Union with the IAM and negotiating a legally-binding contract would be the best way to ensure that they are recognized appropriately for the value they create for Australia’s largest airline, the IAM said.

IAM Air Transport General Vice President Richie Johnsen said: “The IAM applauds these brave Aircraft Maintenance Engineers for taking the first step in gaining the right to collectively bargain with Qantas to achieve the fair contract they deserve.  The IAM stands strong with these Workers and will leverage the IAM’s significant resources and power to not only win this election, but also to secure the fair contract these Aircraft Maintenance Engineers rightfully deserve.”

The IAM represents thousands of Aircraft Mechanics and related Workers across the United States at major and regional airlines, such as American Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, British Airways, PSA Airlines and Air Wisconsin Airlines.

The IAM represents 620,000 Active and Retired Members in countless industries and is the largest Airline Union in North America.

To Directly Access This Organizing Labor News Story, Go To: IAM Files for Representation Election for Qantas Aircraft Mechanics - IAMAW (goiam.org)