Seattle-Tacoma Airport Air Fuelers Ratify Strike Against Swissport and Its Greed

Air Fuelers at Seattle-Tacoma Airport Vote to Strike

In a decisive move, over 150 air fuelers at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) have authorized a strike against Swissport, a leading commercial aviation services provider. The workers, represented by Teamsters Local 174, are making their voices heard after Swissport consistently failed to engage in good faith negotiations over contract terms.

The Teamsters’ Secretary-Treasurer, Rick Hicks, emphasized the seriousness of the situation, stating, "Swissport's greed has forced our members to take action. Our members perform dangerous and physically demanding work, and Swissport's financial success has relied on their efforts. No one wants to walk off the job, but we deserve fair negotiations, both for the workers and the traveling public."

Swissport, which boasts a $4.2 billion revenue as the largest airport ground services provider globally, faces severe operational disruptions should the strike commence. Major airlines operating at SEA, including American, Delta, Alaska, and JetBlue, would see significant impacts.

"This is a highly skilled and high-risk job, and all we're asking for is fair pay and good benefits," said Parsu Ghimirey, an air fueler and shop steward with Local 174. He further illustrated that Swissport possesses the financial means to meet their demands. "If we end up striking, it'll be because of management's greed — plain and simple."

The ongoing contract negotiations have been marked by Swissport's reluctance to approve reasonable offers, leading to frustration and discontent among the workers. With the authorization in place, Local 174 is poised to initiate a strike at any moment, given the continued lack of progress.

Formed in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents a broad spectrum of approximately 1.3 million workers across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico, standing up for their rights and fair working conditions. As the situation unfolds, the potential strike looms as a significant event for both the airport and its passengers, exemplifying the broader struggles of labor in the aviation industry.

For those interested in following the developments of this story and other labor issues, Teamsters Local 174 encourages everyone to visit their website at Teamster.org or follow them on social media platforms such as X and Facebook to stay updated.