Mediation Board Won't Investigate Delta's Interference in AFA-CWA Election

The National Mediation Board ruled 2-1 this week against investigating numerous charges against Delta Airlines management for interfering with workers' rights during the recent election for AFA-CWA representation.

"Despite very specific and an overwhelming number of instances of management intimidation and interference with the right of employees to join a union, the majority of the NMB decided to accept Delta management's denial of having done any of the things their flight attendants witnessed," said AFA-CWA President Pat Friend.

The NMB's policies and conduct regarding its oversight responsibility for aviation union elections was the subject of an intense congressional hearing last week. Lawmakers raised serious questions regarding the NMB's conduct and failure to protect the rights of workers, Friend said.

In his dissenting opinion, NMB Member Harry Hoglander said that by "failing to direct an investigation, the Board majority has abrogated their duty."