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Overview of the Allegiant and Sun Country Merger

Recently, the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) has been assessing the potential impact of the merger between Allegiant Airlines and Sun Country Airlines on frontline professionals, particularly aircraft maintenance technicians. The announcement of a tentative four-year agreement between AMFA and Sun Country marks a significant milestone after years of negotiations which commenced with AMFA's certification at Sun Country in June 2022. This collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is crucial as it sets the foundation for the employment terms of technicians involved in the aviation sector.

Merger Details

The merger was publicly announced in January 2026, pending approval from both the U.S. Department of Justice and shareholders. Despite the merger discussions, AMFA assures that the tentative agreement with Sun Country will remain unaffected during the ratification process. Under current federal laws, both Allegiant and Sun Country must adhere to separate collective bargaining agreements until certain conditions, such as seniority integration and representation determination, are satisfied.

Representation Overview

In this merger scenario, various workgroups at both airlines are represented by different unions:

• - Pilots: Represented by the Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) at Sun Country and by the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) at Allegiant.
• - Flight Attendants: The IBT represents flight attendants at Sun Country, while those at Allegiant are affiliated with the Transport Workers Union of America (TWU).
• - Aircraft Maintenance Technicians: Technicians at Allegiant are represented by the IBT.

AMFA emphasizes the instrumental role that maintenance professionals play in ensuring safe and reliable airline operations. The association intends to closely scrutinize how the merger might influence job conditions, job security, and long-term career prospects for these skilled workers.

AMFA's Position

Bret Oestreich, the National President of AMFA, has reiterated that the priority is safeguarding job security and high safety standards during the merger integration. The interests of the maintenance professionals must remain protected, ensuring that the merger does not weaken their contractual rights and job benefits.

AMFA has urged the management of both Allegiant and Sun Country to engage in transparent and timely communication with all affected employees and their unions. The association also advocates for constructive dialogue with union leadership before critical decisions impacting station staffing, maintenance locations, or operational structures are made.

Commitment to Safety and Professional Integrity

There's a strong commitment from AMFA to ensure that safety will remain paramount during the merger process, with a particular focus on properly staffed maintenance operations in the newly formed airline entity. As the regulatory review unfolds, AMFA stands prepared to cooperate with management that respects the rights of frontline professionals and their collective bargaining agreements.

The integration must not compromise the working conditions, safety standards, or employment benefits accrued by technicians over years of service. AMFA remains steadfast in opposing any merger actions that could potentially diminish the rights or wellbeing of its members.

Future Communication and Action

As further information regarding the merger becomes available, AMFA has pledged to keep the Sun Country membership updated on developments and how they may affect technicians. It is crucial for all stakeholders, including the management and the union, to navigate this transition effectively to ensure the integrity and performance of the airline maintains high standards.

In conclusion, while the merger of Allegiant and Sun Country presents an opportunity for organizational growth and enhancement, AMFA is dedicated to ensuring that the welfare of aircraft maintenance professionals remains a top priority throughout the process.

For more information about AMFA and its initiatives in support of aircraft maintenance technicians, visit www.amfanational.org.