Leaders from the IAM Air Transport Territory have visited Lufthansa Technik workers in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, to welcome them into the territory and commend their decision to remain part of the union after a recent decertification attempt. The visit comes as long-delayed contract negotiations are set to resume.
The delegation included Richie Johnsen, General Vice President of the IAM Air Transport Territory; Edison Fraser, Chief of Staff; Special Assistants Tom Regan and Juan Negron; International Representative Jorge Bonilla; District 142 General Chair Todd Roan; and communications representatives from both the International and District 142 levels. They met with workers at Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico to discuss upcoming steps in contract talks.
By joining the IAM Air Transport Territory, which represents aircraft maintenance professionals across major airlines, members in Puerto Rico will gain increased resources and support.
“Welcoming these members into the IAM Air Transport Territory is about ensuring they have the strongest possible representation and the full backing of a territory that knows the airline industry inside and out,” said Richie Johnsen, General Vice President. “These workers stood together, defeated a decertification attempt, and made it clear they believe in the power of union solidarity.”
Edison Fraser, Chief of Staff for IAM Air Transport Territory, stated: “Our visit was about listening to members, answering questions, and making sure they know the Air Transport Territory is fully invested in their success. These members deserve timely, fair negotiations and a contract that reflects the skilled work they perform every day.”
Tom Regan, Special Assistant to the International President, noted: “Contract talks are resuming, and the framework is largely in place. The remaining issue is economics. Management delays have gone on long enough, and these workers deserve to secure the wages and benefits they’ve earned.”
John Coveny, President and Directing General Chair of District 142 added: “We are proud to officially welcome Lufthansa Technik workers in Puerto Rico to IAM District 142. Their unity and determination to remain IAM members speak volumes. District 142, alongside the Air Transport Territory, is fully committed to supporting these members and fighting for a strong contract that reflects their skill, dedication, and value to the industry.”
Lufthansa Technik Aircraft Mechanic Ilianalyn Delgado said: “We stayed IAM because we know a union contract is how we protect our jobs and our families. Having the IAM Air Transport Territory here in Puerto Rico, standing with us as negotiations restart, shows we’re not alone.”
