The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers said Tuesday that it will file for a union representation vote for about 3,000 JetBlue ground operations workers.
The union said there is “sufficient interest” among the JetBlue employees to justify holding an election. It plans to file for a vote with the National Mediation Board.
“Now is the time for JetBlue workers to join the IAM union family and gain the dignity and respect of a union contract and a strong voice on the job,” IAM Air Transport General Vice President Richie Johnsen said in a statement. “Conditions for JetBlue G.O. crewmembers need to be improved. Safety on the job, pay, benefits, job security, favoritism, and general work rules can all be improved when crewmembers unionize and demand change with the backing of over 600,000 IAM union members.”
JetBlue did not immediately respond to a request for comment from AirlineGeeks.
JetBlue’s ground workers voted against unionizing in 2023. IAM said that vote took place following an “aggressive union-busting campaign” from the airline.
According to the union, JetBlue ground employees cited below-standard pay and benefits, poor and unsafe working conditions, and unjustified discipline and terminations, among other issues, as reasons for wanting to join IAM.
