United, Mechanics Prepare For Cool-Off Period

Standing firm after nearly two years of contract negotiations, United Airlines and the union representing 15,000 of its mechanics and related personnel are expected to begin a 30-day cooling off period later this week ahead of a potential strike. The National Mediation Board, which proffered binding arbitration that was rejected by District 141M of the International Association of Machinists, released the parties from mediation and said it will recommend the creation of a Presidential Emergency Board to prevent a work stoppage during the holiday travel season. President Bush took similar action earlier this year to block strikes at other major carriers.

In a press briefing this afternoon, White House press secretary Ari Fleischer said, "The President is deeply concerned, especially at this time of year, about any disruption in airline service to the traveling public. He is also concerned about any negative impact a strike would have on the economy. And so, therefore, the President is prepared to do whatever it takes to protect the traveling public during the holiday season."

The carrier, which accepted NMB's arbitration offer, said it is "hopeful that the same consistent standards applied by the government in other major airline disputes this year will be used in this case to ensure there is no disruption to customers, communities and economies." United is battling to curb its daily cash burn rate and already has extremely high labor costs, primarily a result of a landmark contract it gave its pilots last summer.

However, Scotty Ford, president of IAM District 141M, said, "Presidential intervention is unnecessary and undemocratic. The process will work if given a fair chance." The union added that United "failed to bargain in good faith and create a level playing field for all employees."