I got a reply from Mel Martinez (R-Florida). Here is part of his (staff assistant) response in his e-mail.

"I understand your concern regarding the DOT's oversight of antitrust immunity, and its potential impact on American jobs. I appreciate you contacting me and I will continue to follow this issue closely."

I do not look at him as our friend, nevertheless, I will not disengage at this point. I will send more communication to him and my other reps, and try to be constructive, and respectful.

Also contributing to UP-PAC.

As a United furloughee, I find it ironic that NOW they want to fight outsourcing, after 50% of their domestic flying, and almost half their fleet is gone or going.

but I did send my message....

It's exactly the same kind of boilerplate crap his staff sends out to any email you send him. When we were all writing regarding the Lost Retirement Savings Act, it went something like this: "I understand your concern regarding the Lost Retirement Savings Act. Senate Bill (I don't remember what it was) provides for the recovery... blah blah blah" Basically he reiterated to me what the bill was all about. OK.. I know that HE didn't even see my email, his minions sent the reply. I understand that.. he IS probably busy... hefting tankards with Teddy K. But it is insulting to reiterate almost verbatim what a bill that I wrote him about... when I initiated the conversation. I dunno.. it just seems like a waste of time when you get a response like that. It makes me wonder if they even read it. I'm sure they don't other than to get the general gist of the message. :mad:

Completed the form as well. Thank you for the information.

... done

More ALPA carriers need to take action like United vs. counting on ALPA National to take action.

ALPA National is only concerned about keeping the dues coming in so they can make payroll each month.

I think the senior guy are finally seeing that ALPA National is not protecting their jobs. We need to protect our profession.

Don't count on ALPA National !

My Reply:

Thank you for contacting me to share your concern with the antitrust immunity application submitted by Continental Airlines Inc. and Star Alliance to the Department of Transportation (DOT). I appreciate learning of your views.



As you know, DOT tentatively approved Continental Airline's Inc.'s application to join Star Alliance April 7, 2009. While Congress has no direct role in examining the merits of the individual application, I will monitor the decision of DOT and its consequences for U.S. travel. I am hopeful DOT will protect the best interests of American workers and our airline industry's global competitiveness.



Thank you again for contacting me. Please feel free to do so again regarding any issue of importance to you.

i understand what you guys are saying about the poor responses. I am about to complete the form and send it in. I should tell you, I have personally corresponded with Congressman John Mica (R-FL) about other issues regarding aviation, and he is very responsive. There was a safety issue regarding a particular aircraft I was operating (not just specific to my company) that I felt was a very big deal and the FAA was not responding to in a timely enough fashion. He not only took action by contacting the appropriate person at the FAA, but mailed me the letter he sent to them and the letter they sent back! No joke, a couple weeks later the FAA had an AD out to correct the issue. I can't tell you it was as a result of his action, but I was certainly impressed with his professionalism and responsiveness. Take it for what its worth, i understand this is a different issue.

Thank you for contacting me about inadequate labor protections in the proposed Continental Airlines' application to join the antitrust-immunized alliance led by United. I appreciate hearing from you on this issue.

As you know, the Department of Transportation (DOT) tentatively decided to grant antitrust immunity to Continental Airlines to join United and eight other Star Alliance member airlines. Proponents of the alliance believe that the alliance will provide consumers with more travel options and reduced fares for international service. Others have expressed concern regarding the lack of labor protections included in the antitrust immunity agreement, arguing that this action will allow airlines to manipulate labor practices.

The Senate does not have an official role in granting antitrust immunity. However, I will continue to monitor this situation as the DOT considers this measure further. You may also wish to consider contacting the DOT at http://www.dot.gov/contact.html to share your views.

Thank you again for contacting me. Please feel free to keep in touch.

Time to contact the DOT?

Sent the letter