Leaders from the IAM Air Transport Territory have visited Lufthansa Technik workers in Aguadilla, Puerto Rico, to formally welcome them into the territory and acknowledge their decision to remain part of the IAM Union after rejecting a decertification effort.
The visit included discussions about the next steps as contract negotiations, which had been delayed for some time, are set to resume. Attendees included Richie Johnsen, General Vice President of IAM Air Transport Territory; Edison Fraser, Chief of Staff; Tom Regan and Juan Negron, Special Assistants to the International President; Jorge Bonilla, International Representative; Todd Roan, District 142 General Chair; and communications representatives from both the International and District 142.
The transition brings Lufthansa Technik Puerto Rico workers under the representation of IAM Air Transport Territory. This group represents aircraft maintenance professionals across major airlines and is expected to strengthen resources and support for members in Puerto Rico.
“Welcoming these members into the IAM Air Transport Territory is about ensuring they have the strongest possible representation and the full backing of a territory that knows the airline industry inside and out,” said Richie Johnsen. “These workers stood together, defeated a decertification attempt, and made it clear they believe in the power of union solidarity.”
Edison Fraser added: “Our visit was about listening to members, answering questions, and making sure they know the Air Transport Territory is fully invested in their success. These members deserve timely, fair negotiations and a contract that reflects the skilled work they perform every day.”
Tom Regan commented on upcoming negotiations: “Contract talks are resuming, and the framework is largely in place. The remaining issue is economics. Management delays have gone on long enough, and these workers deserve to secure the wages and benefits they’ve earned.”
John Coveny, President and Directing General Chair of District 142 stated: “We are proud to officially welcome Lufthansa Technik workers in Puerto Rico to IAM District 142. Their unity and determination to remain IAM members speak volumes. District 142, alongside the Air Transport Territory, is fully committed to supporting these members and fighting for a strong contract that reflects their skill, dedication, and value to the industry.”
Ilianalyn Delgado, an aircraft mechanic at Lufthansa Technik expressed: “We stayed IAM because we know a union contract is how we protect our jobs and our families. Having the IAM Air Transport Territory here in Puerto Rico, standing with us as negotiations restart, shows we’re not alone.”
