Airline workers picket for better pay, job security, and more

Some American Airlines workers are pushing for a new contract with their boss.

Passenger service workers picketed Tuesday outside airports across the country, including at Charlotte Douglas International Airport.

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Reservations agents, gate and ticket counter agents and customer assistance agents work in passenger services.

The union representatives say they haven’t seen a raise in years and are struggling.

“I’ve got members sleeping in their cars,” said Tammy Scott, union representative. “I’ve had to loan out a blowup mattress in my Local. I have a food bank in my Local. Our agents came in on poverty wages and they’ve worked mandatory overtime for 2 ½ years.”

The union says they’re asking for a contract, which includes job security, worker safety, adequate pay, and better working conditions.

American Airlines sent Channel 9 the following statement: “Picketing events like the one taking place today aren’t out of the ordinary during contract negotiations and will have no impact on our operation.”

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