Release #08.PCL3
March 25, 2008

MEDIA ADVISORY

Northwest Airlink and Delta Connection Pilots to Conduct Informational Picketing to Express Frustration over Stalled Negotiations

Duluth, Minn. — The Pinnacle Airlines (PCL) pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International (ALPA), will conduct informational picketing on Wednesday, March 26, at Duluth International Airport. Pilots are protesting the glacial pace of their contract negotiations and management’s refusal to recognize the pilots’ contributions to the success of Pinnacle Airlines. Based in Memphis, Pinnacle operates as a Northwest Airlink and Delta Connection carrier, and flies more than 130 modern jet aircraft to destinations that include Duluth, MN.

Why:
Pinnacle management is expanding the company without recognizing the sacrifice and dedication of their pilots, who have contributed to Pinnacle’s bottom line, which gives Pinnacle an opportunity to continue to grow and move into new Air Services Agreements with other carriers. Pinnacle pilots entered their third year of negotiations and just want a fair contract.

When: Wednesday, March 26        11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Where: Duluth International Airport

Background:
Pinnacle pilots and management have been negotiating for a new contract since February 2005. Pinnacle management made what was characterized as a “last and best offer” in December 2005, and has refused to earnestly participate in negotiations since that time. Pilots and management remain far apart on issues such as retirement, job security, and compensation. Both sides entered mediated negotiations in late September 2006. Pinnacle employs 1,244 pilots.

Founded in 1931, ALPA is the world’s largest pilot union representing more than 61,000 cockpit crewmembers at 43 airlines in the U.S. and Canada. Visit the ALPA website at www.alpa.org.

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ALPA CONTACT: Capt. Scott Erickson, (651) 226-3797
Capt. Amy Kotzer, (612) 385-1885
Kimberly Seitz, (703) 481-4440