The Transport Workers Union of America (TWU) has successfully negotiated a first contract for PrimeFlight Fuelers at Orlando International Airport. The agreement, which includes a 15 percent pay raise and changes to the paid time off system, was approved unanimously on July 21 and will be effective from August 1. Under this new three-year contract, 72 fuelers will join TWU Local 504.
John Samuelsen, TWU International President, stated, “This first contract for PrimeFlight Fuelers in Orlando provides significant economic gains for workers and their families.” He added that the contract elevates the fuelers’ pay from the lowest to the highest on the property.
The starting pay rate for fuelers will increase from $15 to $17.50 per hour, with annual increments leading up to $20.50. Previously lacking paid sick time or vacation, workers now receive structured vacation benefits and six paid sick days annually.
Robert Payne, TWU Local 504 President, remarked on the improvements in pay and working conditions: “We were proud to fight for PrimeFlight Fuelers at the bargaining table.”
Additional benefits include eight paid holidays per year and guaranteed overtime pay. The company is restricted from altering work hours to avoid overtime accruals.
PrimeFlight Fuelers are responsible for servicing flights under contracts with several major airlines including Southwest Airlines and American Airlines. Angelo Cucuzza, TWU Organizing Director, expressed pride in securing this contract shortly after fuelers voted to join TWU.
