IAM, North America’s Largest Air Transport Union, Pushes for FAA Reauthorization

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), which represents over 100,000 ramp workers, customer service agents, flight attendants and more in the air transport industry, is calling on Congress to swiftly pass FAA authorization.

The Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act (H.R. 3935) addresses a wide range of issues, including working conditions and safety matters that affect the IAM's air transport membership.

IAM International President Brian Bryant sent a letter to Congress, strongly urging FAA reauthorization.

"While the bill, H.R. 3935, does not address all the IAM's demands in an FAA reauthorization package, it does include several of our requested provisions and will ultimately help improve the safety and working conditions of our air transport members," wrote Bryant. "This includes provisions like employee assault prevention and response plan standards, increased scrutiny of foreign maintenance and repair stations working on U.S. aircraft to ensure uniform safety and support for U.S.-certified aircraft mechanics, improved cabin air quality and a ramp worker safety 'call to action.'"

FAA reauthorization is imperative to the always-necessary improvements of safety and working conditions for IAM air transport members. It should be of top priority for legislators to immediately pass the act so that the Biden Administration can do its job: protect the public, passengers and workers in all aspects of air travel.

"H.R. 3935 establishes common-sense improvements to rules for testing and operating unmanned aircraft, aircraft certifications, pilot certifications, operational standards, and more," said IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President Richie Johnsen. "The IAM strongly encourages members of Congress to swiftly pass the bill and reauthorize the FAA for the safety of not just our members, but of the flying public."

The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) is among the largest industrial trade unions in North America and represents nearly 600,000 active and retired members in the manufacturing, aerospace, defense, airlines, transportation, automotive, railroad, shipbuilding, woodworking, health care, and other industries.