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IAM calls for tighter regulation of aircraft repair stations
28 November 2012
| WASHINGTON - The Machinists Union is calling for tighter regulations on aircraft repair stations in response to the Federal Aviation Administration’s announcement that it is seeking to reform the rules governing airline maintenance. |
The action comes just weeks after the latest problem involving outside maintenance contractors: Last month, American Airlines grounded dozens of Boeing 757 airliners after passenger seats came loose on four flights.
“IAM-represented aircraft mechanics have set the gold standard in aircraft maintenance. They ensure the airworthiness of aircraft and enable people to travel the world safely,” said IAM General Vice President Sito Pantoja. “This standard is at risk as the outsourcing of critical safety-sensitive aircraft repairs has become the operating norm in an environment where air carriers 'forum shop' for cheap labor costs and lax regulations.”
For more than 25 years, the IAM has been the leading critic of federal repair station regulations. Current regulations create risky incentives for U.S. carriers to outsource aircraft maintenance to poorly regulated facilities abroad that do not meet the same rigid FAA safety requirements as do facilities in the United States, the union said.
The poorly crafted regulations have resulted in the loss of thousands of highly skilled U.S. mechanic jobs.
“It’s up to the FAA to close loopholes in air safety regulations that incentivize U.S. airlines to outsource aircraft maintenance overseas,” said Pantoja. “We strongly urge the FAA to adopt the changes offered by the IAM.” |
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