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Old 01-09-2007, 08:03 AM
  #10  
PolarBear
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Joined APC: Oct 2005
Position: CA 747-400
Posts: 11
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Ref Polar hiring question-----

Based upon two recent arbitration rulings, the status at Polar is this:

1) all PFEs (57 last count) that were illegally terminated when AAWH transferred "Polar classic" flying to Atlas have been re-instated, with full back pay, benefits, etc and are now just sitting at home, not working, but collecting full pay, benefits, etc.

2) all FOs (approx 100) furloughed due the transfer of "Polar classic" work to Atlas have been recalled, with full back pay,benefits, etc since furlough and are now just sitting at home, not working, but collecting full pay, benefits, etc.

Added Note: All Polar Captains who were downgraded to FO because of AAWH actions to transfer "Polar classic" flying to Atlas have been awarded full back pay, benefits, etc (ie, the difference between Capt and F/O pay).

A third arbitration decision, concerning Atlas flying Polar trips, is in progress. Meeting held 3 Jan 07 between AAWH (holding co of both Atlas and Polar), Polar MEC, and arbitrator to determine remedy. Arbitrator has ruled that AAWH cannot use Atlas to fly Polar schedules, but has not determined what the remedy will be. Outcome at this time is unknown---but decision expected soon.

So, as far as to whether Polar is hiring is a moot point at this time. My guess is not. About 150 Polar guys sitting home collecting pay and not working. I assume AAWH will not let this situation continue for very long.

It all depends on what AAWH decides to do.

If they expand Polar (based upon additional China route awards and the current use of 4 Atlas planes and 120 Atlas crewmembers to do Polar work) by using Polar crews and Polar airplanes, then the possibility exists of future hiring at Polar. This of course implies a corresponding decrease in crew needed at Atlas.

Presently, all Atlas and Polar crews are awaiting the arbitrator's final remedy decision and its impact on both carriers.

No doubt it will be interesting and cause extreme angst to all concerned.
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