May 31, 2010 - The International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Airline Division this week sent a request to the National Mediation Board that it release the aircraft mechanics of United Parcel Service from contract negotiations after more than four years of bargaining without reaching an agreement.

"UPS' aircraft mechanics simply want a fair agreement that recognizes we have been without a new contract since 2006," said Robert Combine, UPS aircraft mechanic and President of Teamsters Local 2727 in Louisville, KY.

Combine continued, "Our Company has made substantial profits since 2006, even considering the economic downturn last year; yet UPS has been unwilling to make a reasonable settlement offer, especially on the questions of job security for our members against foreign outsourcing and protecting our health benefits."

Local 2727 is pleased to have the support of the UPS Pilots. Independent Pilot Association President Bob Thrush believes that the NMB should grant the release and that UPS has not been bargaining in good faith and moving on this like they should. "This is one of the tools available for Local 2727 to expedite the process and hopefully get the contract they deserve."  President Thrush stated that the "IPA fully supports Local 2727's endeavors to get the best contract in the industry." Combine concluded, "We hope this action will persuade UPS to finally make the good faith effort to resolve our long dispute."