United, ramp workers reach tentative contract agreement
By
Posted 7:55PM on Thursday, April 25, 2002
CHICAGO - United Airlines and its ramp workers' union have reached a tentative contract deal. <br>
<br>
The proposed settlement between the nation's second largest carrier and its 25-thousand ground workers would give many of United's baggage handlers and customer service representatives their first raise since 1994. <br>
<br>
Talks have been ongoing for 28 months. <br>
<br>
If the deal is ratified, it would get United over the last hurdle it needs to clear before entering a critical phase of its financial recovery plan. The airline is trying to get workers at the majority employee-owned company to agree to pay concessions. <br>
<br>
United contends the cuts are necessary to help it end two years of unprofitability with business travel still sluggish and revenues lagging. <br>
<br>
But the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers -- United's biggest union -- has refused to talk about possible concessions until pending contracts were settled and ratified.