Approximately 100 bus operators and bus supervisors employed by ERMC-UNIFI voted to join the Transport Workers Union of America (TWU) on Wednesday night. The workers, based at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York City, provide shuttle services for Delta Air Lines employees.
According to John Samuelsen, the TWU International President, “These workers deserve better – and the TWU will fight for a contract that addresses the current horrendous wages and working conditions.” He further mentioned, “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.”
Currently, the unit’s employees lack sick or vacation days and must obtain management approval for any time off. On the job, bus operators use a single, unsanitary port-a-potty and do not have access to a breakroom or running water during shifts, forcing them to take breaks and eat in their cars or a bus.
UNIFI, a global provider of third-party aviation services, has been criticized for offering low wages and limited benefits to its workers.
