PURCHASE, New York, Sept. 25, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Atlas Air, Inc. and Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc., subsidiaries of Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings (Nasdaq: AAWW ), today announced they (collectively, “Atlas” or the “Company”) are seeking a preliminary injunction to require the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Airline Division, and Local Union No. 1224 (collectively, the “IBT”) to meet their obligations under the Railway Labor Act (“RLA”) and stop the illegal and intentional work slowdown and service interruptions they are causing.
In its filing, the Company states the IBT is engaging in an unlawful, concerted work slowdown to gain advantage in pilot contract negotiations currently underway with the IBT.
The illegal work slowdown and service interruptions are causing significant flight delays and harm to the Company and its valued customers. Atlas plays a major role in the global supply chain on a daily basis by transporting tons of time-sensitive cargo for customers.
“As the largest air cargo outsourcer in the world and the largest provider of commercial airlift for the U.S. military, businesses across the globe and millions of people depend on the stability, reliability, and viability of Atlas’ day-to-day operations,” said William J. Flynn, President and Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Air Worldwide.
“We value our commitment to our customers and the passengers and cargo entrusted to us. We must protect the service quality we provide to our customers.”
The Company’s request for a preliminary injunction was filed in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. In its filing, the Company states that the IBT has violated its status quo obligations under the RLA by encouraging the slowdown and failing to prevent and discourage it. The Company is asking the Court to compel the IBT to stop the illegal work action and return to normal operations.
Atlas’ customers have been notified of the steps the Company is taking to address the work slowdown.
Atlas values the contributions of its pilots. The Company will continue to negotiate with the IBT for a joint contract for Atlas and Southern Air crewmembers in connection with the pending merger. The Company remains committed to completing the bargaining process in a timely manner and in the best interests of all parties.
About Atlas Air Worldwide:
Atlas Air Worldwide is a leading global provider of outsourced aircraft and aviation operating services. It is the parent company of Atlas Air, Inc., Southern Air Holdings, Inc. and Titan Aviation Holdings, Inc., and is the majority shareholder of Polar Air Cargo Worldwide, Inc. Our companies operate the world’s largest fleet of 747 freighter aircraft and provide customers a broad array of Boeing 747, 777, 767, 757 and 737 aircraft for domestic, regional and international applications.
Atlas Air Worldwide’s press releases, SEC filings and other information may be accessed through the company’s home page, www.atlasair.com .
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