NWA employer contribution to 401k
 

Here's a question guys from an NWA pilot on military leave. Our employer contribution to the 401k is 3% of our salary. I believe a year or so ago, American Airlines pilots on mil leave had a class action lawsuit or something that established the right under USERRA that they were entitled to this contribution while on mil leave. In talking with my United buddies, they are also getting it. My question is threefold; 1: Do any of you NWA guys know if this issue has been resolved for us? 2: Who should we contact at NWA ALPA to discuss this? 3: Will the upcoming merger with DAL effect this...that is to say, if I am still on mil leave when the merger goes through, will I get my NWA employer contribution before or after I return? Thanks

Can't answer for NW, but Delta pays it.

How would you be entitled to it on Mil Leave if you had no income from NW? It's not a match, it's your income (i.e., the 3% raise in the '98 contract)

I'm sure someone with a lot more knowledge of the '98 contract will chime in, but comparing the 3% to what happened at other airlines might not be useful.

as stated above the 3% is not a company contribution but rather 3% of your earned monies put in to your DC plan. This basically allows for an extra 3% to be saved in your DC plan than current law allows. Based on this I would say you are not entitled to the money if you didn't actually have earned income from NWA.

USERRA law provides certain benefits which may entitle you to it. Some companies misinterpret the law so take a look at it. Remember, if your entitled to it the company MUST follow it since its a federal law. Its ridiculous the way some companies try to screw over people who serve their country. Just read the law and see if it applies.

Please contact someone at ALPA National who can give you an accurate answer. 100 opinions of line pilots probably won't solve your problem, but a good USERA informed attorney can.

Good luck...and thanks for the service.

Thanks for the info guys!