#United States #Los Angeles #LAX #Menzies Aviation #Teamsters Local 986

Major Gains for Menzies Aviation Workers at LAX

In a landmark event for labor relations, nearly 100 workers from Menzies Aviation at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) have achieved a significant milestone by ratifying a new collective bargaining agreement with Teamsters Local 986. This agreement comes as a result of months of arduous negotiations and a credible threat of a strike, reflecting the workers' determination for better compensation and job security.

Chris Griswold, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 986, heralded this moment as a monumental victory for the workers at Menzies Aviation. “For too long these workers were undervalued despite the essential services they provide at one of the busiest airports in the world. With this contract, they have secured substantial wage increases and essential benefits, along with the strongest job protections we've negotiated in the history of the company,” Griswold stated.

The newly ratified contract entails notable improvements in various areas including wages, health care coverage, and protections against unfair treatment, alongside critical enhancements in scheduling and safety protocols. These amendments are anticipated to have a direct and positive impact on the daily lives of the Local 986 members working at LAX.

One of the key voices in this achievement is Mike Ugugala, a mechanic at Menzies Aviation and a Local 986 steward. With a remarkable tenure of over 35 years, he expressed his satisfaction with the new contract, noting, “This is by far the best contract of my career. We are proud of what we've accomplished together and look forward to working under a strong Teamsters agreement.”

The implications of this agreement extend beyond immediate financial gains. It symbolizes a triumph for labor rights, emphasizing the importance of fair treatment and equitable working conditions for essential workers. With over 30,000 members across the western United States, Hawaii, and Guam, Teamsters Local 986 continues to advocate for labor rights and workers' interests in various sectors.

This victory not only empowers the workers of Menzies Aviation but also serves as an inspiration for labor movements nationwide. The agreement stands as a testament to what can be achieved when workers unite for their rights and welfare. With a commitment from Teamsters Local 986 to support its members throughout their careers, the future seems promising for the dedicated workforce at Menzies Aviation.

Labor advocates hope that this victory will resonate throughout various industries, encouraging workers to stand firm against inadequate working conditions and to push for meaningful negotiations. The new contract is not just a set of bargaining terms; it represents a renewed commitment to workers’ dignity and rights in the workplace.

In closing, as Menzies Aviation fuelers celebrate their well-deserved improvements, they remind us all that collective efforts can lead to transformative change, and that together, workers can achieve not just survival, but thriving conditions within their professions.