UPS, pilots’ association issue statement on move to mediation

LOUISVILLE, Ky.–UPS and the Independent Pilots Association (IPA), which represents the approximately 2,600 pilots who fly for UPS, announced that in accordance with a process agreement signed last year, the company and union will request mediation by the National Mediation Board (NMB) for their ongoing contract negotiations.

This joint request reflects the desire of both parties to continue to progress toward an agreement that is good for UPS, its customers and employees, said a statement.

The contract is governed by the Railway Labor Act (RLA) and became amendable Dec. 31, 2011. Under the RLA, contracts do not expire until the negotiation processes of the RLA are exhausted.

The parties have utilized their best efforts over the past two and a half years of negotiations, and have not yet reached agreement in the contract areas of scheduling, compensation, pension, scope and benefits.

The parties said they remain committed to bargaining in good faith and working with the NMB to reach agreement in a timely manner.