Just received the following e-mail:


April 14, 2009


Dear Spirit pilot,



Since the summer of 2006, we’ve been negotiating for a new contract. The progress has been at best slow, at worst nonexistent. For nearly three years, we’ve seen every delay tactic, false promise, and stonewalling scheme in management’s union-busting playbook. Their position seems simple: violate our current contract by finding any loophole to exploit; at the same time, refuse to bargain seriously for a new contract until their hand is forced.



The scenario they have created leaves ALPA with little room to maneuver in order to move these negotiations forward. We have gone far beyond our own obligation to bargain in good faith, and it is time to take this process to the next step.



In response to management’s unwillingness to bargain in good faith, in March, the MEC passed a resolution authorizing the MEC chairman to conduct a strike authorization vote. This authorization was approved by Captain John Prater, president of ALPA, in accordance with ALPA’s Constitution and By-Laws.



Now it’s your turn.



This week, I will be asking you to vote to give your MEC the authority to call for a strike. The first question you may have is, “If it passes, are we going on strike in 30 days?” The simple answer is “no.” Instead, this vote indicates that you understand that lawful self-help would be appropriate in our situation and may be necessary to obtain a fair contract. An overwhelming strike vote will send a clear message to our management and may well help in convincing them to bargain in good faith. This strike authorization vote is an opportunity to show management our unity and our commitment to getting a fair contract.



No one wants a strike, but we all must recognize that this management and their refusal to bargain in good faith may allow no other outcome than a strike. We must send the message loud and clear to this management that we are prepared to enter into self-help in order to get the contract we deserve and that has been long overdue.



I urge each and every one of you to bring these negotiations to a successful conclusion by voting in favor of the strike authorization.



If you have any questions or concerns now or when you receive your balloting information, feel free to contact me at [email protected] or (XXX) XXX-68X4.



Fraternally,



Sean Creed, Chairman

SPA MEC