Approximately 100 Bus Operators and Bus Supervisors employed by a 3rd party vendor ERMC-UNIFI voted Wednesday night to join the Transport Workers Union of America so they can improve their substandard working conditions and wages.
The Bus Operators and Bus Supervisors are based at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City and provide shuttle services for Delta Air Lines workers at the airport. Delta Airlines is the “economic employer” of this workgroup.
“These workers deserve better – and the TWU will fight for a contract that addresses the current horrendous wages and working conditions,” said TWU International President John Samuelsen. “ERMC and their parent company UNIFI is 48% owned by Delta but these workers do not share in any of the airline’s financial success. We will address substandard wages and benefits in a first contract.”
Workers in the unit currently have no sick or vacation days and must have any time off approved by management. While on the job, the Bus Operators share one filthy port-a-potty that is not properly kept clean. Workers are forced to take breaks and eat lunch in their cars or a stationary bus, as they do not have access to a breakroom or running water during their shifts.
UNIFI is a global provider of third party aviation services but consistently pays poor wages and offers little in the way of benefits to its workers.