Members MUST Get More Involved

The future of our jobs is being shaped right now. AI, automation, outsourcing, and global instability are already affecting our industry.

If members stay passive or uninformed, we lose leverage.                                   

If members get involved, we win.

What involvement looks like:

• Attend meetings
• Read updates
• Participate in Union surveys and actions
• Work Safe
• Wear union gear
• Talk to coworkers
• Stay informed about tech and industry changes

AI, Industry Changes, Negotiations & Mental Health Awareness

AI & Automation: What’s Really Happening

AI is already being used on the ramp — monitoring turn events, tracking equipment, and supporting predictive maintenance. But it cannot replace the judgment, safety awareness, and experience of ramp, facilities, and GSE workers.

The real risk isn’t robots taking every job —
it’s management using technology to justify:

• Fewer workers per gate or job assignment
• More cross‑utilization without proper pay
• Outsourcing in the name of “efficiency”

Negotiations at American Airlines

We will enter bargaining at a time of:

• High demand (they need us)
• High fuel costs (they’ll cry poor)
• Rapid tech changes (they want more control)

We can fight for:

• Real wage increases
• Better staffing and safety protections
• Strong technology and job‑security language

We must be ready for:

• Flexibility and cross‑utilization demand
• Outsourcing attempts
• Divide‑and‑conquer tactics

Strong contract language is needed protection such as:

• No layoffs tied to automation
• Human‑in‑the‑loop requirements for safety‑critical tasks

A bargaining team is only as strong as the membership behind it.
Management must feel the power of thousands Association members united.

Global Conflict & Jet Fuel Costs

The war involving Iran has pushed jet fuel prices sharply higher.
Airlines respond with:

• Fare increases
• Schedule cuts
• Cost‑control measures

Management will use fuel costs as a bargaining excuse.
But remember:
When fuel is expensive, experienced ramp crews become even more essential.

That gives us leverage in bargaining.

Industry Turbulence: Spirit & JetBlue

Just a few examples:

• Spirit Airlines has ended its operations on May 2^nd, 2026 after 34 years.
• JetBlue is in a heavy restructuring.

When low‑cost carriers tighten their belts, legacy carriers often follow.
Our contract is our firewall against outsourcing and “flexibility” demands.

Mental Health Awareness: Taking Care of Ourselves

Ramp, facilities, and GSE work are demanding — physically, mentally, and emotionally.
Long hours, weather, pressure, and constant operational stress take a toll.

It’s important for every member to:

• Pay attention to stress and burnout
• Talk to someone you trust when things feel overwhelming
• Support coworkers who may be struggling
• Use available resources when you need them

Looking out for each other is part of who we are as a union.
A strong workforce is not just skilled — it’s healthy.

Final Message

Your work is essential. Your skills cannot be replaced. Unity is our strength.

Show up. Stay informed. Stay involved.                                                                         
Together, we protect our jobs, our safety, our mental well‑being, and our future.

In Solidarity,

Victor J. Gonzalez

President, TWU Local 501
International Vice President

If you have never been part of a contract rally, this is an opportunity to Stand as ONE with TWU Local 100 Brothers & Sisters and experience Union  Solidarity!