As the pilots of Atlas Air continue to push for the completion of long-stalled negotiations over a new master contract with the company, the International Aviation Professionals (IAP), which represents the Atlas pilots, said focusing on achieving wins for all parties can guide the contract talks to a fast conclusion. Both parties are expected back at the bargaining table starting July 20.
The Atlas Air pilots have been working without a contract since 2016. Atlas Air is an air cargo and charter airline and aircraft lessor.
Job security is a key issue. The pilots are looking for guarantees that if Atlas sells assets, the pilots tied to those assets would go to the new company. “We are dealing with people who want to work hard and help Atlas grow, but they need to know they will not be left out in the cold if the company sells,” said Robert Kirchner, the head of the IAP, Teamsters Local 2750. “We want the subpar working conditions addressed, including poor scheduling that costs the company millions per year, and eliminating dangerous situations, especially in foreign countries,” said Kirchner.