The Update Message from the International Association of Machinists representing Continental, ExpressJet and Continental Micronesia
Flight Attendants in the 2339 Local Lodges

Friday, November 3, 2006

Labor’s Election Efforts In Final Stretch – With less than a week before the November 7 election, union members across the country are going into high gear to educate union households on candidates and issues in this critical mid-term election. Phone banks, visits to union households and face-to-face discussions at the work site are all part of Labor 2006, the massive Voter Education and Get-Out-the-Vote drive by the AFL-CIO and partner unions. IAM members are playing a key role in the coast-to-coast effort.  “IAM members are doing their part,” said IP Tom Buffenbarger. “But we need even more members to pitch in and make one last effort between now and November 7. Volunteering just a few hours can make a huge difference. Be part of history on November 7, get involved today and make your voice heard.”

Visit www.goiam.org to take part in an AFL-CIO election event in your area.

Your IAM Representatives Urge You to Register and Vote November 7th!

We invite all Flight Attendants to check out our new District Lodge 142 website. While there, please update your address and email information through the online forms.

The new website address is: www.iamdl142.org/fa

Continental Flight Attendants Receive Pension Information – Flight Attendants in , Cleveland and Houston can view a power-point presentation in their crew rooms to learn more about the IAM National Pension Plan.  The brief presentation provides information on understanding the benefits the plan offers and how to explain the value of the pension plan to fellow union members.  IAM Local Lodge Base Representatives and District Chairpersons will be available to answer any questions you may have regarding the pension plan.  Remember, when it comes to your current pension plan, you have a lot you can lose…Learn what you have to gain by transitioning to the IAM National Pension Plan.

Mesaba Reaches Tentative Agreements With Pilots, Attendants – Mesaba Airlines says it has reached tentative agreements with unions representing its pilots and flight attendants. Details of the agreements, which still need approval from the union members, were not released. The airline continues to negotiate with the union representing its mechanics.

Delta Gets Extension To File Reorganization Plan – Delta Air Lines has received an extension to file its bankruptcy reorganization plan. The airline hopes to emerge from bankruptcy by the middle of next year. It now has until February 15, 2007 to file a plan.

Airline Costs Climb On Higher Fuel Prices – Costs for domestic passenger airlines have climbed 80% in the past six years, the Air Transport Association says. A major factor in the increase is the price of fuel, which has risen 266% since 2000 and now accounts for 25.5% of costs.

Airlines Expected To Post Profits, But Analysts Warn Of Downturn – The strong global economy will allow airlines to raise prices and boost profits in 2007, according to some analysts. However, they warn that the next economic downturn may force some carriers to declare bankruptcy and liquidate.

Boeing Designs 787 With Comfortable Cabin Air System – Boeing says the cabin air in its 787 will include more oxygen, more humidity and fewer pollutants. Cabin air in the plane will be vented through dedicated inlets on each side of the plane's belly.

We would like to encourage all members to attend your Local Lodge business meeting. Each base must have a quorum to conduct business. The following is a schedule for upcoming meetings: