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INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MACHINISTS & AEROSPACE WORKERS, LL2339N FEBRUARY, 2011

XJT

FLIGHT LINE
OSHA Regulation in the
Aviation Industry
By IAM, International Staff Writter IN THIS ISSUE
IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger today called OSHA Regulations 1
on all U.S. Senators to reject a proposal by Kentucky Republican Sen.
President’s Message 2
Rand Paul that would cripple a decade-long effort to extend
important workplace health and safety protections to the nation’s NOH8 Campaign 3
professional Flight Attendants.
XJT FAQs 4
“For more than 40 years, American workers have enjoyed the
benefits and protections afforded by the Occupational Safety and Get Involved… 5
Health Act,” said Buffenbarger in a letter to all Senators.
“Unfortunately, these protections do not apply to Flight Attendants.”
Since 1975, the FAA has held unilateral jurisdiction over
workplace safety for Flight Attendants, but without prescribing or
enforcing safety and health standards or regulations. Sen. Paul is
proposing an amendment to strike language from the pending FAA
Reauthorization Bill (S.223) that would create shared jurisdiction Flight Line
over air cabin workplace safety for both OSHA and the Federal A Monthly Publication
President-Joey Guider
Aviation Administration (FAA).
V.P. – Mike Becerra
Buffenbarger is also calling on IAM local and district lodge Editor-Michael Zirulnik
members to urge their senators to vote “no” on Sen. Paul’s anti-flight All Content  of IAM Local
attendant safety and health amendment and to any other Lodge 2339N
amendments that would weaken this long overdue legislation. 2010, All Rights Reserved
To join us in our opposition of this blatant disregard of Flight
www.LL23394u.org
Attendants go to GOIAM.ORG, proceed to the MNPL tab and then
click Tell Senators to Oppose Anti-Flight Attendant Amendment.

Involving YOU!
By Brandon Mabery
As we all know with the mergers at CO &
XJT , we are indeed in for the fight of our
livelihood. This is the time to step forward
and stand up for the union who represents
you and your co-workers daily. Get out
there and let your voice be heard. If you
want to get involved, please contact any
union rep and they will point you in the
proper direction.
INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MACHINISTS & AEROSPACE WORKERS, LL2339N FEBRUARY, 2011

President’s Message
Dear Members,
This month we celebrate Black History. We are a lodge of great diversity
that can take a moment to look back on our heritage. We are in the fight of our
lives in working to preserve what we enjoy everyday as IAM flight attendants
with higher than average wages, pension, flexibility and democracy. "The past is
a ghost, the future a dream. All we ever have is now" (Bill Cosby). This is so true
in what we represent today. We have to build on our strengths, so that we can
build our group into true unity. We need to stand strong in achieving a
transitional agreement at the new United that both groups can benefit from. We
will call on you to stand up to this fight and volunteer in getting the message out
on what true representation means by being IAM. You will see the organizing
campaign launched with the slogan "IAM United". We are the front line of this
company, and together we will be better. All of us will face times when we feel
discouraged, but you are not alone. "I have learned over the years that when one's
mind is made up, this diminishes fear" (Rosa Parks).
The tentative agreement (TA) for Continental flight attendants has been mailed to every one's address on
file with our District Lodge. The ballot must be post marked no later than February 16, 2011. The TA is also
available online at www.go142.org. This agreement provides a higher standard when we go into transitional
negotiations, providing stronger wages, job security, and quality of life enhancements. We encourage you to
review the facts of this TA prior to voting. If you have not received your packet at home please contact the
District Lodge at 816-452-6646. Since the announcement of CWA-AFA filing for single carrier status the IAM
has filed a challenge with the NMB (National Mediation Board) as to the criteria being met that determines
single carrier status. As this ruling is made we will keep you informed throughout the entire process.
Moreover, ExpressJet resumed contract negotiations in January. One of the main topics discussed was the
rapid deterioration in the pass travel policy. The negotiation committee will work hard to improve and secure
benefits that you desire when working for an airline. As with any negotiation, we ask that you stay in the know
with factual information and engage the committee as they move the process along. ExpressJet will be gearing
up with its own organizing campaign, "One Union One Voice" as they will have a representational vote against
CWA-AFA with the ASA flight attendants. Make sure to visit www.go142.org for up to date information. Please
bookmark the site, http://www.FAmergerMATTERS.org. as a “favorite” in your Internet browser.
Lastly, our local lodge will gain another true partner in our profession. We extend our hand to the
professional cabin crew at Open Skies, a subsidiary of British Airways. They will begin their own fight to
negotiate a contract that secures them the benefits of being an IAM member. As they go through this new
journey we ask that when you see them around, welcome them to the family of 2339N. Wishing everyone safe
flying.

Best Wishes,

Joey Guider
President

"Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by


the moments that take our breath away."
— Maya Angelou —

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INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MACHINISTS & AEROSPACE WORKERS, LL2339N FEBRUARY, 2011

NOH8 Campaign
By Chris Boelens

The IAMAW LL2339-N recently participated in the NOH8 Campaign photo shoot in Hoboken, New
Jersey at the W Hotel. The NOH8 Campaign is a photographic silent protest in direct response to the passage
of Proposition 8. Photos feature subjects with duct tape over their mouths, symbolizing their voices being
silenced by Prop 8 and similar legislation around the world, with "NOH8" painted on one cheek. The
campaign has evolved from its original cause into a new and innovative movement that promotes human
rights across the country.
Our group was the largest at the event, with 13 flight attendants posing for the photo, oxygen masks,
seat belt extenders and our own NOH8 airlines safety information cards in tow. We soon became the center
of attention as we posed and made a photographic statement for equality. At the pre event we made a big
splash with the host taking pictures with other attendees and discussing the flight attendant’s support and the
glamorous idea that most people still have of us. I must agree, flight attendants are at an advantage when
addressing a cause, as it still goes without saying that the outside public idealizes our position. An asset we
used to promote this very important issue.
The pictures taken by world-renowned photographer and creator of NOH8, Adam Bouska will be
available to those who attended 4-6 weeks after the event. Newark Local will upload the pictures onto the
Facebook page for the membership to see. To get involved and to join in on the conversation go to
www.NOH8Campaign.com. Here you can find an event, read the blog or check out photos of celebrities and
others who have attended a photo shoot.
Thanks to everyone who joined us! I am so proud to be a part of such a great group of flight
attendants.

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INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MACHINISTS & AEROSPACE WORKERS, LL2339N FEBRUARY, 2011

XJT FAQs
By Sara Gonzales

Speaking to fellow ExpressJet flight attendants everyday, it becomes quickly


apparent that many flight attendants have the exact same questions. We have created a short FAQ section in
order to address some of those questions. We will continue to update this section of Flight Line with
additional questions. Please e-mail Sara.Gonzales@LL23394u.org if you have questions you would like to see
included in the future.

1. Why does the pool display show more trips than are actually in open time?
The pool display is not only showing trips that originate on that date but any trip that touches that
date. For example, a 2-day trip would affect the coverage on both the day it begins and the next
day when it finishes.

2. How can we enforce our contract if it is expired and we are in negotiations?


Our contract is not expired nor will it ever expire. It became amendable on July 31, 2010. Your
Union entered into Section 6 negotiations in order to further improve your contract and quality of
life. Until you vote on a new contract and it is ratified your current contract will remain in place.

3. Now that we are Atlantic Southeast do they still have to abide by our contract?
Yes. Our contract is binding even in the event of a merger or change in ownership. On pg 3,
Section 1-F of our contract secures our contractual rights in the event of a merger or change in
ownership.

4. What should I do when 'My Schedule' is not working on CCS? Do I have to call crew
scheduling to get my schedule?
When 'My Schedule' is not coming up on CCS you can go to your 'Master Schedule' to get your
pairing number. Then go to 'Pairing Information' and input the pairing number, the date the
pairing originates, and choose flight attendant in the class drop down menu. Your pairing will
come up and you will not have to contact crew scheduling making yourself subject to
reassignment.

5. If crew scheduling calls me during a pairing do I have to answer my phone?


No flight attendant is required to be phone liable during a pairing. Even if you are on reserve you
are not phone liable once you begin a pairing. You are subject to reassignment but you are not
phone liable.

6. How can I be reassigned if I am not phone liable?


You may be reassigned ONLY if you are met by a crew tracker or supervisor or speaking to crew
scheduling. Voice mails are never a form of proper notification.

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INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MACHINISTS & AEROSPACE WORKERS, LL2339N FEBRUARY, 2011

Get Involved in YOUR Future


By Cori Horowitz

With the ASA/XJT merger well on its way, we have seen many changes here at
ExpressJet. Many of which have had a negative impact on our work group, bringing morale to an
all time low. It is completely understandable to be extremely upset and disappointed with the new
Continental pass travel program, as well as the blatant disregard for our health and safety with the
United Express operation. Although most of us feel like this is the time to give up, it's actually the
moment we must unite stronger than ever to promote our future. This is the time we need to come
together and stand strong in unity. Our union is only as strong as the members who support it. In
the last year I have been very active with our Local Lodge and have attended most of our union
meetings to make sure my voice and the voice of the ExpressJet flight attendants are being
heard. Attending these meetings has helped me become familiar with the procedures of
conducting union business.
Continental and ExpressJet flight attendants are part of the same Local Lodge in
Newark, which means our dues dollars go into the same bank and we attend the same monthly
business meetings. Although Continental is a larger group, we both have an equal voice in the
voting process and share the funds to promote our flight attendants. As a group, we vote on every
item posted on the agenda, which explains exactly where our Local Lodge dues money is
spent. We as members have the final say in where our money goes. However, if you never attend
these monthly meetings you have no control.
The ExpressJet flight attendants had a few months of very high attendance at these meetings
and this did not go unnoticed. However, it has dwindled down to only a few fighting for everyone
at ExpressJet. With the merger moving forward at a rapid pace it is imperative that we all stand
together and fight for the future of our members! Your General Chair, Kate Romanausky often
attends our meetings and during that time flight attendants have the opportunity to ask questions,
voice concerns and get the answers we all deserve. This is your chance to ensure your voice is
heard and to hold those who are making the decisions regarding you contract and representation
accountable for their actions! This is the time to get involved and educate yourself and others. This
is YOUR time to make a difference.

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INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF MACHINISTS & AEROSPACE WORKERS, LL2339N FEBRUARY, 2011

Professional Standards

CAL Professional Standards – 973.461.6595 LL2339N Monthly Business Meeting


XJT Professional Standards – 973.618.6375

Try resolving conflicts onboard the aircraft. If you’re Date Time:


still not satisfied with the outcome, PLEASE call the March 8, 20011 3pm (eastern)
Union’s Professional Standards Committee first before
April 12, 2011
going to your supervisor and involving the company.
May 10, 2011
Going through the Professional Standards Committee June 14, 2011 Place:
saves flight attendant’s jobs, salvages relationships July 12, 2011 EWR Marriott Hotel
between coworkers and avoids disciplinary action August 9, 2011 1 Hotel Road
from the company.
Newark, NJ 07114

In Solidarity…Union Strong

IAMAW—LL2339N
One Gateway Center, Suite 2600
Newark, New Jersey 07105

[Affix address label here]

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