Please email faq@g4p4a.info if you cannot find an answer to your question.
We want to be clear: No volunteer of G4P4A has ever served as a member of the removed EXCO of Local 2118, and we do not support any of those individuals returning to elected positions.
2023 highlighted that a lack of oversight leads to numerous problems. G4P4A's mission is to bring stronger, more transparent, and resourceful union representation to Allegiant pilots. Once we succeed, ALPA will conduct a secret ballot election for representatives to serve within the Allegiant MEC and LEC electronically.
The events that transpired in 2023 and 2024 at Local 2118 should never have occurred. Under ALPA’s democratic oversight and checks and balances, they wouldn’t have.
G4P4A is comprised of volunteers from across Allegiant’s extensive base structure, with representatives in nearly every base. These volunteers contribute their time and donate their own funds to improve life as Allegiant pilots by seeking industry-leading representation.
When you sign a card with Allegiant Pilots for ALPA (G4P4A), you authorize us to petition the National Mediation Board (NMB) to conduct a secret ballot representation election. Here’s what happens when you sign a card:
Signing a card with G4P4A is a confidential and important step towards potentially improving collective bargaining power and securing better representation for Allegiant pilots. It initiates a process governed by federal regulations to ensure fairness and transparency in representation elections.
Your card is kept highly confidential. We do not desire to make a private choice public knowledge. When G4P4A successfully reaches 50% plus 1 of signed cards, the NMB will be petitioned to conduct a Secret Ballot Representative Election. Your vote will remain confidential.
G4P4A is committed to protecting pilots who choose to exercise their rights to seek better representation. It is illegal for anyone to retaliate against you for signing a card supporting G4P4A. If you experience any form of intimidation or retaliation due to your decision, you are encouraged to immediately contact G4P4A (help@g4p4a.info).
Changing representation during negotiations is a strategic decision aimed at enhancing bargaining power and achieving better outcomes for Allegiant pilots. This initiative by G4P4A to petition the NMB for a Representation Election underscores dissatisfaction with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters Local 2118 (IBT) and its perceived inadequacies in representing pilot interests over the years.
The timeline from the initiation of the card drive to the Representation Election by the NMB provides a defined period. During this time, current negotiators from Local 2118 have the opportunity to reach a tentative agreement that meets pilot expectations. G4P4A (Allegiant Pilots for ALPA) supports the ongoing negotiations and hopes for their success. However, if negotiations do not result in a satisfactory agreement within this timeframe, ALPA stands ready to assist when elected by Allegiant pilots.
ALPA brings extensive resources to the table, including industry-leading negotiators, attorneys specializing in airline pilot labor law, and subject matter experts for every section of our CBA. ALPA's track record includes securing competitive contracts and improving working conditions for pilots across various airlines. Their approach involves thorough analysis, strategic planning, and effective advocacy to achieve contracts aligned with industry standards and pilot priorities.
The consideration of ALPA representation during negotiations reflects Allegiant pilots' commitment to securing fair and equitable terms that reflect their professionalism and dedication. It aims to address longstanding concerns about representation effectiveness and ensure pilots are well-positioned amidst Allegiant's growth plans and operational aspirations.
While it's understandable to think that all unions might be the same, there are significant differences that can impact the quality of representation and outcomes for pilots. Here’s why things are expected to improve with ALPA:
In contrast, the IBT has had multiple failures including: negotiating teams without significant progress in securing better contracts for Allegiant pilots, large arbitration losses amounting to millions of dollars in losses for Allegiant pilots, and inadeqaute committee and steward training. These failures all suggest that a change in representation will bring about the improvements needed.
By choosing ALPA, Allegiant pilots can expect a higher level of support, more effective advocacy, and a union that truly understands and prioritizes their needs.
The point of switching to ALPA, especially with the introduction of a new structure and oversight mechanisms, is to fundamentally transform the representation of Allegiant pilots and ensure accountability moving forward. Here’s why this change is crucial:
In essence, the switch to ALPA is not just about changing the name on the union banner but about instituting a comprehensive overhaul that empowers Allegiant pilots, ensures transparency, and sets a foundation for effective representation and advocacy well into the future.
As a non-management pilot, you are eligible to sign a card even while serving as a current Local 2118 volunteer. While this decision lies entirely with the individual, we can assure you that the IBT will never have knowledge of who signs a card.
Your card is kept highly confidential.
Thank you for your interest in volunteering to help decertify IBT and elect ALPA for Allegiant pilots. Here are several impactful ways you can get involved:
By taking these actions, you can play a vital role in our mission to secure better representation for Allegiant pilots. To get started, please contact us directly with your interest and availability. Your involvement can make a significant difference. Thank you for your support!
G4P4A was created specifically to educate Allegiant pilots about the benefits of ALPA representation and the positive impact their representation will have on their careers and their families. Our mission is to provide clear and accurate information about how ALPA can offer improved representation compared to the current situation with IBT.
Additionally, G4P4A is dedicated to educating Allegiant pilots on the process of electing ALPA as their representation. We aim to ensure that all pilots understand the steps involved and feel empowered to participate in this important decision.
It's important to note that ALPA has signed a “no raid” clause with the AFL-CIO, which means they are committed to not actively seeking to take members from non-ALPA unions. This clause, however, does not diminish ALPA's commitment to representing Allegiant pilots when they are elected. ALPA has made it clear that they are ready and committed to represent Allegiant pilots once elected.
By conducting the card drive through G4P4A, we can focus entirely on our goal of decertifying the IBT and transitioning to ALPA representation while respecting the agreements ALPA has in place. This approach ensures that the campaign is driven by Allegiant pilots for Allegiant pilots, reinforcing our collective commitment to better representation and stronger advocacy for our needs.
When ALPA is elected by Allegiant pilots, the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), as well as all existing Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) and Letters of Agreement (LOAs), will remain fully in effect and continue to be binding. It's important to clarify that Allegiant management cannot unilaterally undo or terminate these agreements simply because of the decertification of IBT and the election of ALPA.
This means that all terms and provisions agreed upon in the CBA, MOUs, and LOAs, including any retention bonuses that have not yet been paid out, will continue to be honored and enforced. Despite any misinformation that may be spread by Local 2118 or others, these agreements remain intact and operational.
The transition to ALPA represents a change in the union representing Allegiant pilots, but it does not nullify or invalidate the contractual agreements that have been previously negotiated. Pilots can rest assured that their current contractual protections and benefits will be maintained under ALPA representation.
Our large and growing group of volunteers choose to remain anonymous because this movement is not about any individual interest or personal agenda. Our goal of electing ALPA is to provide Allegiant pilots with the industry-leading representation they deserve after a decade of letdowns under the IBT. This movement transcends personal conflicts, focusing instead on the collective benefit of all Allegiant pilots.
By staying anonymous, we emphasize that facts are more important than rumors and that our mission is driven solely by the desire for better representation and improved professional conditions for everyone in our group. We believe that anonymity helps keep the focus on our collective goals rather than on individual personalities and or personal biases.
Allegiant pilots deserve the comprehensive support and powerful advocacy that only ALPA can provide. By electing ALPA, we can access the resources and expertise necessary to achieve substantial improvements in our contract, working conditions, and overall quality of life. This movement is about securing a better future for all Allegiant pilots, and our volunteers' anonymity underscores our commitment to this shared vision.
If Allegiant pilots ratify a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) during the card drive or National Mediation Board (NMB) election process, it reflects their commitment to improving their working conditions despite the ongoing challenges with the IBT. We would acknowledge the hard work of Local 2118’s fourth negotiating committee in achieving this milestone.
However, it's crucial to understand that ratifying a new CBA does not erase the issues that Allegiant pilots have faced under IBT representation. These issues include inadequate resources, insufficient committee training, and flawed electoral processes within Local 2118. These shortcomings highlight the urgent need for a change to a union that can provide Allegiant pilots with the superior representation and resources they deserve.
Transitioning to ALPA offers Allegiant pilots industry-leading representation that can address these longstanding issues and better support pilots’ needs. ALPA’s comprehensive resources, robust training programs for committees, and democratic electoral processes are designed to empower pilots and ensure their interests are effectively represented.
Ratifying a new CBA during the card drive or NMB election process is a positive step forward for Allegiant pilots, but it underscores the ongoing need for improved union representation that ALPA can provide.
Each pilot volunteer of Local 2118 will be given the ability to continue their work with the full backing of ALPA’s resources and training. Any pilot who is willing to serve as a volunteer or run for an elected position within ALPA is free to do so and encouraged. ALPA is a truly democratic union where the voice of Allegiant pilots comes first in the governance of our association.
Once Allegiant pilots elect ALPA, the ALPA MEC will appoint temporary pilot leaders forming a temporary Allegiant MEC who will quickly work with ALPA national to ensure all critical committees are functional, establish the governance structure of councils, and to facilitate the election of permanent LEC’s and MEC’s.
We will be providing our pilots with an extensive educational piece outlining the exact process on July 12th, 2024.
Your union dues at ALPA are an essential investment in the support and advocacy that ALPA provides on behalf of pilots like yourself. Currently set at 1.85% of your gross monthly airline earnings, these dues are determined by ALPA members and are periodically reviewed.
Upon ALPA’s formal certification by the National Mediation Board (NMB), Allegiant pilots will begin paying dues 90 days thereafter. It’s important to note that the majority of ALPA’s staff consists of dedicated volunteers, including pilots like you who serve within the association.
Your dues contribute to critical functions such as contract negotiations, legal expenses, salaries for ALPA national staff, and general operating costs. Approximately 50-75% of your dues remain within your local association, empowering elected leaders to advance the interests of Allegiant pilots. This allocation supports initiatives like unity-building events, family gatherings, grievance meetings, and Allegiant pilot merchandise.
The remainder of your dues supports ALPA National and its infrastructure, ensuring robust support systems and resources for all ALPA members across various airlines. This structure enables ALPA to effectively represent pilots’ interests at both the local and national levels, advocating for better working conditions and industry standards.
Your dues play a crucial role in sustaining ALPA’s mission to provide industry-leading representation and support for Allegiant pilots, fostering unity, and advancing your collective interests within the aviation industry.
Yes, it is likely that we will lose most, if not all, of Local 2118’s money when we switch to ALPA. However, this loss is offset by the significant benefits we will gain. By joining ALPA, Allegiant pilots will immediately gain access to ALPA's extensive financial resources. These funds will be dedicated to serving the same vital purpose that Local 2118’s funds were originally intended for but never fulfilled: the effective representation of Allegiant pilots.
In our opinion, the potential $8 million loss is an incredible deal when considering all that Allegiant pilots stand to gain with ALPA. ALPA provides unparalleled support, including expert negotiators, legal representation, and comprehensive resources, all aimed at advancing the interests and improving the conditions for Allegiant pilots. The investment in ALPA’s extensive resources and proven track record of success makes this transition a valuable and strategic move for our future.
Yes, ALPA is committed to representing Allegiant pilots. Currently, ALPA represents carriers that are smaller in size than Allegiant, where pilots receive robust and effective representation. In fact, Allegiant will be joining a growing number of carriers that have chosen to leave the IBT and elect ALPA as their representative.
ALPA’s track record demonstrates its capability to advocate for pilots across airlines of varying sizes, ensuring their voices are heard and their interests are prioritized. Allegiant pilots can expect ALPA to provide them with strong representation, enhanced resources, and a proactive approach to addressing their unique needs and challenges within the aviation industry.
In 2000, the ALPA Board of Directors passed a pilot unity resolution expressing the goal of representing all airline pilots in the United States and Canada. ALPA still stands behind that resolution and would therefore welcome the pilots of American Airlines.
ALPA has an organizing division and we have had limited contact with them. As we hold no official capacity, ALPA will not support our efforts beyond providing information we request. As we have also stated, this is a grassroots effort and is funded completely by the Allegiant pilots and we receive no financial support from ALPA.
ALPA has made mistakes, The critical question for us as pilots is: which of these two unions will provide more value and job protection for our careers moving forward? It's essential for Allegiant pilots to voice their opinions on this crucial decision.
In late 2000, TWA was on the brink of bankruptcy. American Airlines showed interest in acquiring TWA but wanted assurance that APA (the in-house American Pilot union) supported the deal before proceeding. APA demanded that AA management require TWA pilots to waive their contractual seniority integration protections before the acquisition. Under the threat of an 1113e filing in bankruptcy, the TWA ALPA MEC had to choose between risking their future in bankruptcy court or waiving seniority protections in hopes that AA would honor their commitment to fair seniority integration.
Simultaneously, APA had an ALPA Exploratory Committee investigating a potential merger between APA and ALPA. This committee met with ALPA leadership. However, ALPA did not fully disclose these discussions to the TWA MEC during their decision-making process. Ultimately, APA's committee ended its project without further action.
The AA-TWA seniority integration led to many TWA pilots being "stapled" to the bottom of the integrated list. Following this, a group of TWA pilots sued American Airlines, APA, and ALPA. The lawsuits against AA and APA were dismissed due to lack of standing, but the case against ALPA proceeded. The TWA pilots argued that ALPA failed in its duty to represent them by not disclosing the ongoing talks with APA. A jury found ALPA liable for breaching its duty of fair representation, leading to an out-of-court settlement where the TWA pilots decided how to divide the settlement.
Additionally, TWA pilots and flight attendants lobbied Congress to change the law to protect seniority rights under federal law. This effort resulted in the "McCaskill-Bond Statute," which now prevents similar issues in future mergers.
This is misinformation being spread by individuals who do not want to see ALPA brought to Allegiant. ALPA is committed to representing any pilot group which elects them as representation. Allegiant pilots will immediately benefit from the full backing of ALPA when elected.
When you request a card, you will be asked to provide your contact information which allows G4P4A to mail you an official card with a return envelope and prepaid postage.
When you receive the card, simply follow the printed instructions, place the signed card into the provided return envelope, and drop it off at your nearest USPS Drop Box.
You can print a card or request a card here: https://form.jotform.com/241604432504042
Our pilot group will maintain the freedom to set our own direction, with ALPA providing the tools to achieve our goals more efficiently than our current inadequate representation. ALPA operates on a “bottom-up” model, driven by pilots and supported by staff, known as “Independence Plus.”
ALPA’s Constitution and Bylaws empower each pilot group to determine its path. While there are some restrictions based on past experiences, such as the prohibition on signing “B Scale” contracts, these are designed to protect pilot interests.
Ultimately, ALPA’s governing documents and policies are controlled by its pilot members. Changes can be initiated through a pilot-friendly process starting at Local Council meetings, which occur at least every four months.
After the first TA at United last summer was resoundingly voted down by the membership, they initiated ALPA’s pilot-friendly recall process to change the leadership of their MEC.
The new United MEC leadership polled their pilot group, utilized ALPA National’s resources to create a strategic plan, and executed that plan to reach an agreement that met or exceeded their pilot group’s expectations within a year of the first TA being voted down. Notably, the new United MEC leadership did not fire their Negotiating Committee; instead, some members of the old committee resigned. The membership held their leaders accountable, and the new leaders listened to the will of the membership and adjusted their strategy accordingly.
In contrast, Allegiant has faced significant challenges in its recent negotiations, with the fourth team of negotiators still unable to make substantial progress. Despite repeated efforts, the lack of advancement underscores the need for a more effective and experienced union. Additionally, unlike ALPA's dynamic approach, the current union has not demonstrated the ability to update and implement a strategic plan that resonates with the membership's needs and expectations. This stagnation highlights the necessity for a change in representation to ensure that Allegiant pilots' voices are heard and their professional interests are vigorously pursued.
G4P4A is committed to ensuring that every donation from pilots is used efficiently and transparently to support our mission of decertifying the IBT and bringing ALPA representation to Allegiant pilots. Here is how we manage and utilize your contributions:
By donating to G4P4A, you are not only supporting a campaign for better representation but also contributing to a culture of transparency and mutual assistance within our pilot group. Thank you for your support and commitment to our collective future.
As professionals, Allegiant pilots are expected to adhere to all company policies and procedures while conducting themselves onboard the aircraft. This includes maintaining a high standard of professionalism and focusing on safety and operational excellence at all times.
When it comes to discussing union-related matters or the efforts of G4P4A, it is crucial to do so in a manner that does not interfere with your duties or disrupt the workplace environment. While it is natural to have conversations about these important topics, they should be conducted during appropriate times, such as during breaks or off-duty hours, rather than while performing safety-critical tasks.
We encourage Allegiant pilots to be mindful of this.
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