United Airlines Faces Potential Travel Disruptions at Denver International Airport

Strategic Insights -

United Airlines passengers may face difficulties in and out of Denver International Airport today as baggage handlers, who operate the automated baggage system on Concourse B, have rejected the final contract offer from Phelps Program Management. The baggage handlers, who comprise 85 employees, have formed picket lines at the south employee parking lot, and other sectors of the union, representing about 4,500 United employees at DIA, have pledged to honor their picket line. This potential strike has the power to cripple United's operations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The baggage handlers, represented by Lodge 142 of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, rejected the contract offer from Phelps Program Management due to demands for better wages, benefits, and working conditions.
  • The union wants a 25 percent raise in wages and a 48 percent increase in the baggage handlers' total compensation package, whereas Phelps offered an average wage increase of 9.5 percent or about $1.81 per hour.
  • The picket lines will be set up at the south employee parking lot, away from the airport terminal, as the city has banned picketing at the terminal or nearby parking lots.
  • Other sectors of the union, including mechanics, ground crews, and customer service agents, have pledged to honor the baggage handlers' picket line, potentially affecting thousands of United employees.
  • United Airlines has issued a strict advisory to its workers warning of disciplinary action or possible termination if they honor the baggage handlers' picket.
  • The airline expects "normal operations" despite the strike but has issued a warning to customers to contact the airline or a travel agent prior to leaving for the airport.

Statistics:

  • 85 baggage handlers have formed picket lines at the south employee parking lot.
  • 4,500 United employees at DIA are represented by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers.
  • 9.5 percent average wage increase offered by Phelps Program Management.
  • $1.81 per hour wage increase offered by Phelps Program Management.
  • 25 percent raise in wages demanded by the union.
  • 48 percent increase in the baggage handlers' total compensation package demanded by the union.

Sources:

  • Harold Johannesen, general chairman of Lodge 142 of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers.
  • Chris Bowers, senior vice president of North America for United.
  • Bob Miller, Phelps spokesman.
  • Article: "United Airlines passengers may face challenges in and out of Denver International Airport today" (no date provided).