Southwest has issued the following statement regarding results of the pilots’ strike authorization vote:
“Southwest’s pilots are not on strike, and the vote result has no impact on our scheduled operations. We are staffed and prepared to welcome travelers for their summer travel plans.
“In fact, a strike can occur only after multiple steps in the Railway Labor Act collective bargaining process are exhausted, including the National Mediation Board releasing both parties from mediation to end talks.
“Our negotiating team remains focused on ongoing discussions and continuing to make progress toward a new agreement for our pilots. Southwest and the pilots’ union (SWAPA) remain in mediation, which is overseen by the National Mediation Board. Most agreements are reached through direct negotiations or mediation, and 99 percent of mediation cases since 1980 have resulted in agreement between the parties.
“Through its 52-year history, Southwest has developed an admired and award-winning culture, including never enacting furloughs or pay cuts, while providing legendary Southwest hospitality to our customers and employees. We look forward to continuing our legacy of taking care of our employees in recognition of the valued skills and talents they contribute to the success of Southwest Airlines,” concluded the statement.
Adam Carlisle, vice president labor relations at Southwest Airlines said: “Our negotiating team continues to bargain in good faith and work toward reaching a new agreement to reward our pilots. This anticipated authorization vote result does not change our commitment to the negotiation process, and we look forward to continuing discussions with SWAPA at the negotiating table.”
For more information, visit www.southwest.com.
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