Winnipeg Airport Swissport workers join IAM

Follows recent organizing efforts in Montreal: Union

Winnipeg Airport Swissport workers join IAM
The 18 employees service aircraft from United Airlines, SunWing and other sun-destination airlines and are responsible for the arrival and departure of aircraft on the ramp, said the union. GOOGLE STREET VIEW

Swissport ramp agents at Winnipeg International Airport joined the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM), Local Lodge 714 on May 9.

“These workers approached us and asked what they needed to do to become IAM members,” said Tony Didoshak, IAM grand lodge representative. “We had the majority of the cards signed with deposits the next day and we immediately filed with the labour board. I was extremely happy with how quickly the board responded to our certification application.”

The 18 employees service aircraft from United Airlines, SunWing and other sun-destination airlines and are responsible for the arrival and departure of aircraft on the ramp, said the union.

Swissport’s unionization follows two organizing victories at Swissport in Montreal. Earlier this month, the IAM organized 160 cabin groomers, as well as 250 ground handlers, mechanics, store keepers, operations officers and communications coordinator in March, said the IAM.

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