AirTran flight attendants ask for federal aid in labor talks

[BovineOne]

http://www.forbes.com/home/feeds/ap/...ap1521147.html

The union representing AirTran Airways flight attendants said Thursday that talks with AirTran Holdings Inc. have stalled over work rules.

The Association of Flight Attendants said the airline's most recent proposal did not include provisions governing scheduling and hours of service. The union said its flight attendants have asked the National Mediation Board to help them reach a contract with the low-cost carrier.

"Nearly a year of talks and private mediation by a well-respected mediator have failed to result in a fair contract offer by AirTran," union representative Joe Rivera said in a press release. "Today's action is further evidence that our flight attendants will do whatever it takes to get the kind of contract we deserve."

AirTran later responded by saying it regrets that union rejected an agreement negotiated by a private mediator last week. Federal mediation will apparently now have to step in to help work out an arrangement between the two parties.