Why This Movement Exists
We’re a pilot-led initiative to build a safer, fairer, more transparent future — grounded in unity, backed by ALPA, and implemented through an enforceable contract under the Railway Labor Act.
✈️ Built by Pilots
Cross-fleet, cross-base, cross-seniority — we represent each other, not corporate interests.
🛡️ Rights You Can Enforce
Policy can change overnight. A contract is enforceable — with grievance and arbitration.
🤝 Unity, Not Titles
We win when we move together — Captains and FOs aligned as SkyWest pilots.
What a Contract Makes Possible
✔ Enforceable Pay & Protections
Locked-in pay structures and premiums; rules for trip/duty, reassignment, JA limits; commuter/fatigue language that can’t vanish with a memo.
✔ Transparent Scheduling Rules
Clear language for building, bidding, awarding, and protecting schedules — plus a path to fix violations.
✔ Independent Grievance System
If terms are violated, there’s a formal process that ends with a neutral arbitrator — not an internal policy review.
✔ Pilot-Led Priorities
Our elected SkyWest MEC sets goals; ALPA provides negotiators, legal, economic, safety, and training support.
How Representation Works (RLA / NMB)
Phase 1
Build Support
Pilot-to-pilot education and outreach. When ready, ALPA provides official authorization card language and return address.
Phase 2
Cards Collected
A majority showing of interest (>50% of eligible pilots) enables the NMB to authorize an election.
Phase 3
NMB Election
Pilots vote. If ALPA wins, the NMB certifies ALPA as the exclusive representative of SkyWest pilots.
Phase 4
Negotiate
SkyWest pilots form an MEC, set priorities, and begin bargaining with ALPA staff support. Unity drives timeline and results.
Policy Today vs. Contract Tomorrow
Here’s how key issues look in a policy-only environment versus what a union contract can put in writing and enforce. Examples reflect common regional-contract approaches; exact terms are negotiated by SkyWest pilots.
Reserve Rules
- Long/short call and airport standby flex as needed.
- Late releases into days off can occur.
- No hard cap on involuntary usage cycles.
- Defined call-out windows and RAP limits.
- Protected minimum days off; limits on late releases.
- Clear metrics for reserve utilization and rest.
Commuter Policy
- Missed trip = potential attendance consequences.
- No standardized listing/backup requirements.
- Protection varies by discretion, not contract.
- No discipline if properly listed with backups and flights cancel or seats aren’t available.
- Clear documentation standards (e.g., listings/jumpseat proofs).
- Reassignment rules and pay clarity after a protected miss.
Junior Manning
- “Voluntary first,” but can still be required.
- Soft frequency limits; variable pay treatment.
- Days off may be impacted with limited remedies.
- Hard caps on involuntary use (monthly/annual) and order of call.
- Premium pay/compensation rules when it occurs.
- Guaranteed days off preserved or paid per language.
Reflows & Career Progression
- Promotions/transitions at company discretion.
- No enforceable flow-through pathways.
- Training pay and equipment coverage vary.
- Negotiated reflow/flow/advancement programs where applicable.
- Protection for training pay, materials, and equipment.
- Transparent vacancy, displacement, and awarding rules.
Myth vs. Fact
In-Hub Information Tables
We’re planning visible, professional info tables in public airport spaces at several hubs. Off-duty pilots are welcome — bring questions, bring colleagues.
Our Commitment
Professionalism. Fairness. Transparency. We’re not here to divide — we’re here to unify SkyWest pilots behind something stronger than policy: representation.
Be Part of What Comes Next
Organizing is happening now. You can engage at your own pace — with support at every step.