NWA mechanics and other employees rally at state capitol (MN)

[struggle4progress]

Northwest mechanics are looking for support and they're turning to the airline's other unions.

With just 11 days to go before a possible strike or lockout, the mechanics are calling for solidarity.

Flight attendants, pilots and baggage handlers showed up on Tuesday at the state capitol, along with members of several other unions. But they were pretty much outnumbered by the men and women in the Northwest mechanics jackets.

The crucial question for mechanics is whether those other employees will cross the line and work with the replacements Northwest is currently training. <snip>

http://www.kare11.com/news/news_article.aspx?storyid=104603


NWA, mechanics agree to resume talks
Mark Reilly and John Vomhof Jr.
Staff Writers

Northwest Airlines Corp. said Tuesday that it would resume mediated talks with its mechanics union next week, just days ahead of a strike deadline.

Negotiations between the Eagan-based carrier and Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association Local 33 broke down last Wednesday. A strike could begin as soon as a 30-day cooling-off period ends at 11:01 p.m. on Aug. 19.

In a statement, Northwest officials said the airline wanted "to reach a consensual agreement" satisfactory to union members that lets the airline cut $1.1 billion in labor cost savings. Northwest is also seeking to eliminate roughly half of AMFA's membership.

The talks, which will be hosted by the National Mediation Board, will be held in Washington, D.C. An exact date was not disclosed. <snip>

http://twincities.bizjournals.com/twincities/stories/2005/08/08/daily22.html?jst=b_ln_hl