Another union opposes Delta merger

[Omaha Steve]

Source: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

By RUSSELL GRANTHAM

Opposition to a merger between Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines keeps growing the longer the proposed deal takes.

As talks between the two carriers' pilots unions on seniority rules dragged out, another union that represents many employees at Northwest on Monday said it will oppose any merger.

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers said it is joining with a passenger rights group to oppose any mergers by big airlines. The union represents baggage handlers, ticket agents and other employees at Northwest, United and Continental Airlines, but not at Atlanta-based Delta, which is largely non-union.

"Employees and passengers are the two groups essential to an airline's success, yet they are the ones that are most hurt in mergers," Robert Roach Jr., the union's general vice president, said in a statement Monday. "Airlines must work with employees and cater to passengers if they expect to succeed."


Read more: http://www.ajc.com/business/content/business/delta/stories/2008/02/25/delta_0226.html

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