Atlas Air, Polar Air, Teamsters reach flight dispatchers contract deal

NEGOTIATORS for the flight dispatchers, working for Atlas Air and Polar Air Cargo, represented by the Airline division of the Teamsters union have announced a tentative agreement on their first labour contract.

The FAA-licensed flight dispatchers are responsible for coordination with aircraft flight crews to ensure the safe dispatch and in-flight monitoring of all flights around the world for Atlas Air Inc, and Polar Air Cargo, the world's largest all-Boeing 747 cargo airline.

Atlas and Polar conduct cargo operations for many airlines and provide important airlift of cargo and troops for the US military, said the Teamsters press release.

The dispatchers voted for Teamster representation four years ago and negotiations began in October 2009. The tentative agreement includes extensive economic improvements as well as multiple positive work rule changes.

"I am very pleased that an agreement has been reached," said local Teamsters' president George Miranda. "Discussions with the company were very businesslike and I believe we have an agreement that recognises the value of our members and acknowledges the responsibility they bring to the job daily."