To: Jeffery A. Smisek, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of United Airlines
United Airlines: Respect New Jersey, Do Your Part to Provide Good Jobs at Newark Airport
Dear Mr. Smisek:
We are New Jersey residents with a vested interest in the economic vitality of our region. We desperately need good jobs and responsible investment in our communities, not just because our lack of them affects our everyday lives, but because our families and local communities would have the chance to collectively flourish if given the opportunity.
We call on United Airlines to:
● Direct its subcontractors to implement the wage increases established by the PANYNJ
● Work with your subcontractors at EWR to develop a long-term plan that provides regular wage increases and real benefits, such as paid time off and quality affordable healthcare.
● Respect airport workers’ rights to form a union free from intimidation and retaliation.
● RESPECT NEW JERSEY by being a responsible corporate citizen in our cities and our state.
Why is this important?
As one of the largest employers in New Jersey and the largest carrier at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), United can improve the lives of thousands of New Jersey-based airport workers. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) recently established minimum wage and benefit standards for subcontracted airport workers, including 4,000 EWR workers, and set a timetable for a more comprehensive policy package that ensures living wages and benefits, including health benefits.
American Airlines and Delta agreed to honor the wage increases, but United Airlines and its subcontractors have not, leaving thousands of New Jersey airport workers in poverty.
Newark is United's second largest hub in the world and subcontracted workers that make it possible for things to run smoothly there deserve better.