Originally Posted by
docav8tor
As you know, we have been working with your Union, the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA), to negotiate cost-saving agreements to preserve jobs, but after nearly six weeks of discussions, we have not made meaningful progress. As a result, Southwest must unfortunately involuntarily furlough Mechanics and Related Employees, Facilities Maintenance Technicians, and Aircraft Appearance Technicians nationwide to further reduce our costs. The involuntary furlough will take place next year unless we reach cost-saving agreements with AMFA, the government enacts a satisfactory PSP extension, or there is some other unforeseen event such as a significant increase in revenue.
At this time, the first date of expected separations from employment due to this reduction in force is January 25, 2021, or within a 14-day period thereafter. Although we cannot predict with any certainty, based on the best information available to Southwest at this time, we expect that this furlough will last more than six months but will be temporary.
Because there are bumping rights associated with this reduction in force for your workgroup, Southwest is unable to determine which Employees ultimately will be affected by the planned action, nor the specific dates on which they will be affected. In an abundance of caution, we therefore are providing this notice to you and all other Employees in your workgroup who may be affected by the planned furlough due to the exercise of other Employees’ bumping rights. This notice does not mean that you will be furloughed by Southwest, only that there is a potential for furlough if you are bumped from your position. If you ultimately are slated for the furlough, you will receive further notice from Southwest with your expected date of furlough and applicable bumping rights.
Apparently, MX is the second group that has no desire to discuss cost-saving efforts. LUV is sitting on a war chest and still wants to capitalize on a crisis.