Machinists at Eastern Vote No on Cost-Cutting Plan

Eastern Airlines’ Machinists union overwhelmingly voted down a cost-cutting proposal described by a company spokeswoman Wednesday as “our best offer.”

There were 7,596 “no” ballots, or 98.2%, against the offer that union local President Charles Bryan said would cut salaries by 56%. The tally compiled Wednesday also showed nine void votes and 90 ballots favoring the offer.

The union represents about 9,500 mechanics and ground-support workers, Bryan said.

“It makes it crystal clear that the membership were very concerned by the number who turned out,” Bryan said. “For 81% to show up to vote is an unprecedented turnout.”

The offer was unacceptable because it would reduce pay, sick days, vacation time and medical benefits, he said.

Parties at Impasse

Eastern “just kind of gutted what had been accomplished over the last 45 to 50 years,” said Bryan, who said he expected contract talks would now be resumed.

“We believe it was our best offer,” Eastern spokeswoman Karen Ceremsak said of the proposal offered in July.

Eastern estimated that the $161 million in wage concessions sought in the proposal amounted to 28% of salaries and accused union leaders of stalling contract talks that began nine months ago.

“The predictable defeat of the contract proposal by more than 98% should send another strong message to the National Mediation Board that the two parties are at an impasse,” said Tom Matthews, senior Eastern vice president of human resources.

While negotiations are stalled, “Eastern’s losses continue. In the meantime, Eastern has been forced to sell assets, lay off employees and reduce service in order to survive,” Matthews said.