Dear Members:

As we close the first quarter of 2026, I am pleased to report that AMFA has experienced one of the most consequential three-month periods in our union’s recent history. From a historic representation election victory that strengthened our union, to a hard-won first tentative agreement at Sun Country Airlines, to a productive visit to Washington, D.C., where we recognized outstanding legislative allies, to continued progress on the Air Canada certification campaign, your union is advancing on every front—with the craft-specific focus, democratic structure, and independent voice that has always defined the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association.

This update covers January through March 2026. Beginning with this edition, AMFA will deliver a National President’s Membership Update every quarter in 2026, so every member at every represented carrier stays fully informed on where we stand and where we are headed.

Historic Representation Election Victory — Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines

February 25, 2026, marks a landmark date in AMFA history. The National Mediation Board (NMB) certified that a majority of aircraft maintenance professionals at Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines elected AMFA as their collective bargaining representative, defeating the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). The ballot tally, completed on February 24 at the NMB offices in Washington, D.C., showed 66% of votes cast in favor of AMFA.

This decisive result reflects the clear preference of these skilled maintenance professionals for craft‑specific, independent union representation dedicated exclusively to their trade. I am proud to welcome Hawaiian Airlines technicians and related employees into the AMFA family to stand shoulder‑to‑shoulder with our current Alaska Airlines members.

The work now begins in earnest. AMFA members will address seniority integration between the Alaska and Hawaiian workgroups and establish priorities for the group’s first Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA). Under the Railway Labor Act, existing contracts at both Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines remain fully in place and enforceable until a new JCBA is ratified. AMFA looks forward to beginning the transition process and working directly with members to prepare for negotiations.

Government Affairs — Washington, D.C. Visit and AMFA Legislator of the Year Awards

During Q1 2026, AMFA’s Government Affairs team traveled to Washington, D.C., to meet with key congressional allies and present AMFA’s Legislator of the Year Award. This annual recognition honors Members of Congress who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing legislation that directly supports the interests, safety, and professional standing of aircraft maintenance technicians and engineers across North America. We are proud to announce that this year’s awards were presented to two outstanding U.S. Senators.

AMFA Legislator of the Year — Senator Tammy Duckworth (D‑IL)

Senator Duckworth was the primary champion of the military mechanic transition provision in the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act, which opened a clearer, more accessible path for military veterans to transition into civilian aviation maintenance careers. AMFA is deeply grateful for her partnership and commitment to our craft.

AMFA Legislator of the Year — Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R‑WV)

Senator Capito championed the Global Aviation Maintenance Safety Improvement Act, successfully included in the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act. This legislation levels the playing field between domestic and foreign repair stations by requiring foreign facilities to meet the same drug‑testing and security standards as American‑based counterparts.

For decades, AMFA has advocated for parity between domestic and foreign maintenance oversight. The disparity not only placed American jobs at a competitive disadvantage but also raised legitimate safety and security concerns for the traveling public. Senator Capito’s leadership delivered a meaningful, enforceable standard that advances both fair competition and aviation safety. We thank her for her work on behalf of the maintenance professionals who keep our skies safe.

AMFA is proud of the accomplishments we achieved in the 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act—a result of decades of sustained Government Affairs engagement. These Legislator of the Year Awards are our way of saying thank you to the lawmakers who went to bat for our craft when it mattered. AMFA will continue to be an active, effective voice on Capitol Hill through our Government Affairs team and our partnership with Capitol67 Strategies as we pursue our legislative and regulatory agenda in 2026 and beyond.

Canadian Government Engagement — Senior Federal Officials

Since AMFA’s certification as a Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) recognized trade union in 2022, our efforts have remained focused on protecting the interests of Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs), strengthening aviation safety, and ensuring that your voice is represented at the highest levels of the Canadian government.

Throughout 2025 and into 2026, AMFA has been actively engaged within several departments of the Canadian federal government on behalf of our membership. AMFA leadership traveled to Ottawa in June and October 2025, meeting directly with Minister of Transport Steven MacKinnon, Deputy Minister of Labour Sandra Hassan, Parliamentary Secretary (Labour) Leslie Church, and Transportation Safety Board Director of Investigations Craig Johnston to advance our priorities of fair representation, workforce stability, aviation safety cooperation, and the critical role of the AME. In November 2025, AMFA sponsored the National Aircraft Maintenance Skills Competition in Toronto, where Secretary of State (Labour) John Zerucelli was invited to deliver the opening remarks and observed the competition firsthand—a meaningful moment that highlighted the professionalism and technical excellence of Canada’s AME workforce.

Carrying this momentum into Q1 2026, AMFA has written to Secretary of State Zerucelli to raise concerns about the IAM’s continued interference with the Air Canada certification process and has scheduled a meeting with newly appointed Deputy Minister of Labour Rob Wright.  AMFA has also formally communicated its firm opposition to any Canada–U.S. tariffs on aircraft or aircraft parts, which threaten supply chains, maintenance operations, and aviation safety on both sides of the border, and will continue pressing the federal government to honor the democratic choice made by Air Canada’s AMEs to be represented by AMFA.

FAA Safety Management System Legislation — AMFA Engaged

On January 27, 2026, a bipartisan group of U.S. Senators introduced the FAA SMS Compliance Review Act of 2026 (S. 3700), directing the FAA to convene an independent expert panel to evaluate and recommend improvements to the agency’s Safety Management System. On February 13, 2026, the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee advanced the bill out of committee, bringing it closer to a full Senate vote.

AMFA was asked to provide a statement in support of this legislation. As I stated publicly, “Frontline aviation maintenance professionals are the backbone of aviation safety. The FAA SMS Compliance Review Act of 2026 reinforces the principle that safety management systems must be trustworthy and dependable for the professionals on the frontlines. When technicians are empowered to report hazards without fear of reprisal, the entire safety system becomes more reliable and safer. Strong oversight, protected confidentiality, and a focus on fixing systemic issues—not blaming workers—are essential to a safety culture that truly delivers results.”

AMFA will continue to monitor this legislation and advocate for provisions that empower frontline maintenance professionals and protect the integrity of voluntary safety reporting programs.

AMFA Accident Investigation Team (AIT) Training Course

In March, AMFA Accident Investigation Team (AIT) members attended the Advanced Commercial Aviation Accident Investigation Course at the FAA/NTSB training facility in Oklahoma City. Representing AMFA were Dennis Tapper (Southwest Airlines), Carl Hiebert (Calm Air), Kevin Koski (WestJet Airlines), and Tom Wiggins, AMFA’s National Safety & Standards Director. This advanced training strengthens AMFA’s ongoing commitment to safety, technical excellence, and leadership in aircraft accident investigation on behalf of the maintenance professionals we represent.

Air Canada Certification Campaign

AMFA’s campaign to represent approximately 2,250 Aircraft Maintenance Engineers and skilled trade professionals at Air Canada continued to advance through the Canadian legal and regulatory process during Q1 2026, despite ongoing opposition and legal challenges from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW).

For context: In May 2025, the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB) authorized a representation vote for roughly 2,250 maintenance employees in the Air Canada Technical, Maintenance, and Operational Support (TMOS) bargaining unit and approved fragmentation—a significant ruling affirming that these specialized maintenance professionals could seek craf-specific representation. A vote was conducted in late May 2025, but the IAMAW filed a court challenge with the Federal Court of Appeal (FCA), which issued a stay order preventing the vote results from being released pending judicial review.

In January 2026, two significant CIRB decisions advanced AMFA’s position. On January 22, the CIRB issued a decision on a duty-of-fair representation charge brought by an Air Canada Tech Ops member against the IAMAW, a proceeding that further documents the IAM’s conduct in this campaign. On January 26, the CIRB denied AMFA’s request to suspend Air Canada bargaining pending the court’s judicial review, ruling that the IAMAW’s existing bargaining rights remain in effect during the legal process. While AMFA had sought a suspension of bargaining to protect affected employees during the transition, the Board’s decision to uphold existing processes means Air Canada’s collective bargaining with the IAMAW continues under court-supervised oversight while the judicial review proceeds.

AMFA remains fully committed to the Air Canada campaign and to the maintenance professionals who initiated this grassroots effort. The IAMAW’s legal challenge is an expected tactic by an incumbent union facing a certification challenge—one we have navigated successfully at other Canadian carriers. The CIRB’s original fragmentation order and vote authorization reflect a considered finding that craft-specific representation is appropriate for these professionals. We are confident in our legal position and will continue to pursue every available avenue to deliver the independent, craft-focused representation these AMEs deserve. Updates will be communicated to members as the judicial review and certification process moves into Q2 2026.

New Organizing Filing — Ornge Air, Ontario, Canada

On January 12, 2026, AMFA filed for certification with the Canada Industrial Relations Board to represent Aircraft Maintenance Engineers at Ornge Air in Mississauga, Ontario. The filing covers AMEs responsible for maintaining Ornge’s AW139 medium twin helicopters and Pilatus PC‑12 NG turboprops, which support the largest integrated air ambulance and critical care transport operation in Canada, serving patients across Ontario.

On February 24, 2026, the CIRB ordered a representation vote between AMFA and the Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU) to determine which union will represent the maintenance employees at Ornge. The Board’s Industrial Relations Officer confirmed the vote opened on March 11, 2026. This filing was supported by an overwhelming 80% or more showing of support from the affected AMEs, demonstrating a clear desire for independent, craft‑specific representation. AMFA looks forward to welcoming the Ornge Air maintenance professionals into our family.

Sun Country Airlines — First Tentative Agreement Reached

On February 6, 2026, AMFA and Sun Country Airlines reached a four‑year Tentative Agreement on a first collective bargaining agreement covering employees in the mechanics and related craft. This milestone follows more than three years of bargaining since AMFA’s certification at Sun Country in June 2022. If ratified, the agreement will establish the foundational terms and conditions of employment for this safety‑sensitive skilled workgroup for the first time.

In January 2026, Allegiant Air and Sun Country Airlines announced a merger agreement. AMFA is closely reviewing the potential impact of this proposed transaction, which is subject to U.S. Department of Justice antitrust review, other regulatory approvals, and shareholder votes. The Allegiant–Sun Country merger announcement does not alter or delay the ratification process for the AMFA–Sun Country Tentative Agreement. AMFA will firmly oppose any attempt to use the merger to weaken jobs, benefits, or safety standards for our members.

Spirit Airlines — Negotiations Continue Amid Bankruptcy

Negotiations toward a first collective bargaining agreement for the Spirit Airlines group continued through Q1 2026. The parties held their first mediated bargaining session since August 2025 on January 20–22 at Spirit Headquarters in Dania Beach, Florida (Negotiations Update #20), following delays caused by the federal government shutdown and Spirit’s ongoing bankruptcy proceedings. A follow-up session was held February 17–19 (Negotiations Update #21), March 25–26, virtual bargaining mediation video conferencing, where both sides continued discussions on bankruptcy status, scheduling of future sessions, and outstanding contract articles. Your AMFA Negotiations Committee reported positive momentum from both sessions. AMFA remains fully committed to the Spirit membership throughout this process.

Jazz Aviation — LaGuardia Accident and AMFA’s Safety Response

On March 22, 2026, a Jazz Aviation CRJ900 operating as Air Canada Express Flight 8646 was involved in a tragic accident upon landing at LaGuardia Airport in New York. The aircraft collided with a Port Authority firefighting vehicle that had entered Runway 4 while responding to a separate incident. Both the Captain and First Officer were killed; 41 others were transported to local hospitals.

AMFA and its aircraft maintenance members at Jazz Aviation are heartbroken by this loss. I issued an immediate public statement on behalf of AMFA extending our deepest condolences to the families, friends, and colleagues of the pilots. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Transportation Safety Board of Canada have both dispatched investigators, and a preliminary report is expected within 30 days. AMFA is committed to full engagement with the investigation to ensure aviation safety remains the highest priority, and we will advocate for any corrective actions the investigation identifies.

Represented Carrier Updates

The following is a brief status update for each AMFA-represented carrier for January through March 2026.

AMFA won the NMB representation election on February 24–25 with 66% of the vote, defeating the IAM. Hawaiian Airlines technicians and related employees are now welcomed into the AMFA family. Seniority integration between the two workgroups is the immediate next priority, followed by preparation for JCBA negotiations. Existing contracts at both carriers remain in effect under the Railway Labor Act. Members are encouraged to stay engaged through Local 14 (Seattle) and Local 32 (Phoenix).

AMFA National is accepting nominations from Legacy Hawaiian members to fill three positions on the Hawaiian Seniority Integration Committee (SIC) and as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) in JCBA negotiations. Two (2) positions will be filled from Technician classifications and one (1) Cleaner/Utility classification. These committee members will serve as voting members from their group’s SIC from the election date through the signing of the JCBA.

To nominate or be nominated, you must be an active Member in Good Standing from Legacy Hawaiian and currently working in the applicable classification group. Nominations must be submitted using the attached Nomination Form (https://www.amfanational.org/docs/HAL_SIC_Nomination_FORM.pdf) to elections@amfanatl.org by 5:00 PM ET, April 16, 2026. If nominated, please also complete the attached Willingness to Serve Form.

Sun Country Airlines

A four-year first-CBA Tentative Agreement was reached on February 6, 2026, following more than three years of bargaining. The TA was ratified on March 10, 2026, and implementation is now underway. The new AMFA member onboarding sign-up process has begun, and the new digital member package has been sent to the company and personal email for completion. The Allegiant–Sun Country merger does not affect the TA ratification timeline. AMFA will continue monitoring the merger process to protect member interests throughout any integration.

Spirit Airlines

Two mediated bargaining sessions were held in Q1—January 20–22 and February 17–19—at Spirit Headquarters in Dania Beach, Florida, and March 25–26, a Virtual Negotiation Mediation Session. These sessions produced positive progress on outstanding articles toward the first CBA, despite the complexity of Spirit’s ongoing bankruptcy. AMFA remains committed to the Spirit membership and will continue to communicate developments as they arise.

Southwest Airlines

AMFA–Southwest members continue under the existing collective bargaining agreement. Locals remain active in contract administration, grievance handling, and member support. AMFA continues to monitor Southwest’s operational and business-model adjustments and will communicate any developments affecting member working conditions or benefits. Members with workplace concerns or grievance matters should contact their Local ALR or AMFA representative.

The March 22 LaGuardia accident involving Air Canada Express Flight 8646 was a heartbreaking event for our entire AMFA family. AMFA members at Jazz Aviation responded with professionalism and solidarity. AMFA issued an immediate public statement and is closely monitoring the NTSB and TSB of Canada investigations. Contract administration at Jazz Line and Jazz Technical Services continues. Members with workplace concerns or grievance matters should contact their Local ALR or AMFA representative.

Horizon Air

AMFA representation at Horizon Air continues with active contract administration and member support. Members should stay connected through their Local representatives. Members with workplace concerns or grievance matters should contact their Local ALR or AMFA representative.

WestJet

AMFA representation for WestJet aircraft maintenance professionals continues. AMFA is monitoring WestJet’s operational and labor relations environment and will communicate updates as they develop. Members with workplace concerns or grievance matters should contact their Local ALR or AMFA representative.

Calm Air

AMFA representation at Calm Air continues under the existing collective bargaining framework. Your Calm Air ALR supports Calm Air members with all contract administration and grievance matters. Members with workplace concerns or grievance matters should contact their Local ALR or AMFA representative.

L3Harris MAS (Military Aviation Services)

AMFA representation at L3Harris MAS continues. The Local and National Officers remain engaged in supporting this workgroup through contract administration and member representation. On February 12, AMFA filed unfair Labour practice charges against L3 Harris that challenge the company’s disciplinary decision. AMFA’s complaint, filed with the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB), alleges that the discipline was motivated by Askin’s status as a union officer. According to the complaint, the company has a long history of harassment, and even physical intimidation, of unionized employees and union officers. Moreover, the union alleges that the discipline was contrary to a clear public policy that encourages employees to raise concerns related to safety-critical maintenance procedures. Askin had previously reported concerns about accessing L3Harris’ computerized maintenance tracking system and the lack of resources necessary for mission crews to perform their duties. As alleged in AMFA’s complaint, the company retaliated and cited Askin’s critical feedback as a key factor in its disciplinary decision, rather than recognizing its responsibility to support its employees. Members with workplace concerns or grievance matters should contact their Local ALR or AMFA representative.

As we head into Q2 2026

AMFA’s National leadership will remain focused on launching the member‑driven seniority integration process for Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines and preparing for JCBA negotiations, supporting the Sun Country membership through first-CBA implementation, continuing mediated bargaining at Spirit Airlines, advancing the Ornge Air certification in Canada, monitoring the Air Canada judicial review process, and advocating for aviation safety improvements following the LaGuardia accident. Your leadership team is committed to keeping you informed at every step through the 2026 quarterly update schedule.

The first quarter of 2026 once again demonstrated that AMFA’s craft-specific, member-driven model delivers real results for real aviation maintenance professionals. The historic election victory at Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines, the first tentative agreement at Sun Country, our legislative accomplishments recognized in Washington, D.C., and the ongoing pursuit of representation for Air Canada’s maintenance professionals all reflect the strength and solidarity of this union. I am honored to serve as your National President and remain fully committed to elevating your professional standing, wages, benefits, and working conditions.

Safety is Paramount

AMFA recognizes your skill and responsibility in certifying aircraft airworthiness to the highest safety standards. Use your carrier’s Safety Management System (SMS) and Safety Reporting System (SRS) to report safety or compliance concerns. You can also report aviation safety issues to the FAA Hotline: https://hotline.faa.gov/.

Thank you for your dedication and professionalism. Together, we will continue to strengthen our craft and ensure recognition of your vital contributions to aviation safety.

Sincerely,

Bret Oestreich
National Director