San Francisco International Airport’s AirTrain just picked up some unexpected drama. Starting next Monday, 54 electrical and maintenance workers who keep the system humming walked off the job, accusing their employer, Alstom Transport USA, of failing to bargain in good faith over wages and time off. The workers, represented by the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 617, say they want higher pay and paid leave that reflects their round-the-clock schedules. Their strike zeroes in on the automated people-mover that links SFO’s terminals, parking, and BART station.
According to the San Mateo Daily Journal, airport spokesperson Doug Yakel said SFO is monitoring the situation very closely while Alstom brings in staff from other locations to keep the AirTrain running. A company spokesperson told the paper that Alstom respects the collective bargaining process and is currently negotiating with the union.
AirTrain Keeps SFO On Track
The AirTrain offers free, year-round service 24 hours a day and connects every terminal, the Rental Car Center, long-term parking and SFO’s BART station, with trains coming as often as every four minutes, according to the San Francisco International Airport. Union leaders say the system’s high-voltage electrical gear makes the electricians’ jobs particularly hazardous and central to keeping the trains operating safely.
Union Accuses Alstom Of Dragging Its Feet
In a press release issued last Monday, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 617 said Alstom has not bargained in good faith since the contract expired in February, accusing the company of posting false information and cancelling bargaining sessions, the San Mateo Daily Journal reported. Alstom has been dragging their feet, IBEW Local 617 Business Manager Scott Wein said, adding that members are standing together for fair wages and paid time off.
Talks Headed To Mediation
The union says it has a mediation session lined up next Friday, March 20, with Alstom and a federal mediation service. Until then, SFO and Alstom say they are keeping service running with substitute crews, while union members say they are ready to keep walking the picket line until they see a contract they can live with.
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