Originally Posted by
pokey9554
They will probably get sympathy since that person will probably be fired. ALPA typically has a closed shop clause which mandates that either the pilot joins the union and pays dues, or the pilot pays dues, but can decline union representation. Either way, the pilot pays dues. Now, if you're talking about just paying dues and declining representation, well, I pay dues and I don't feel represented. Someone correct me if I'm wrong.
Sorry, but that's misleading. First, it's up to each MEC to decide whether or not they have a closed shop. I'm Eagle and we voted in a closed shop in 1997. We can vote it out just as easily. An MEC can do whatever it wants unless it conflicts with the ALPA Constitution and Bylaws.
Second, although it may vary and my experience is limited to Eagle's, pilots aren't required to join closed shop unions. They are usually required to pay dues. No pay, no play. As such, even if they are not "members", if they need union representation, they can have it. Basically, not "joining" the union means they don't vote in any elections. It's more of a symbolic (and stupid, IMHO) move than one of any real consequence.