More Info About the ‘That MF’s Not Real’ Airplane Incident

More Info About the ‘That MF’s Not Real’ Airplane Incident

“The Full Story Behind the Viral ‘That MF’s Not Real’ Airplane Incident”

IAM141.org

By now, everyone in the airline industry knows about the “That MF’s Not Real” Incident that happened on a 2 July American Airlines flight headed to Orlando from Fort Worth.

Here’s a recap:

 

The Dallas Airport Police have now made public the report filed after the meltdown, revealing more of the story. 

The woman experiencing the mental health crisis is 38-year-old Tiffany Gomas, a marketing executive and head of Uppercut Marketing. According to a now-removed LinkedIn page, Gomas is a “Top-performing sales leader, Fortune 50 Account Manager & Project Management Executive.”

The meltdown was filmed by several passengers on American Airlines flight 1009 from Fort Worth, some of which have been viewed millions of times. One of the passengers aboard the flight was comedian Carrot Top, who also posted his commentary about the incident on one of his social media accounts.

In the video, Gomez says, “I’m telling you, I’m getting the f*** off, and there’s a reason why I’m getting the f*** off and everyone can either believe it or they can not believe it.”

“I don’t give two f****, but I am telling you right now – that m*****f***** back there is NOT real,” she continued, pointing toward the back of the airplane. “And you can sit on this plane and you can die with them or not. I’m not going to.”

The police report says two officers responded to the disturbance to find Gomas standing in the jet bridge. However, she refused to speak to officers and left the area. 

The report indicates that Gomas seemed very upset, tearfully stating the flight wouldn’t safely reach Florida. The officer informed her she couldn’t board the plane and issued her a trespass notice before escorting her out of the secure areas of the airport. 

She has removed her presence from social media platforms, with her Facebook and Pinterest accounts no longer available. Additionally, her Instagram profile has been set to private.

Gomas told police the incident “was sparked by an argument over wireless headphones.”

A report by journalist Bree Dail says that an American Airlines supervisor said, “The female passenger was arguing with a family accusing them of stealing her air pods. The female then started claiming that the aircraft was not safe and did not want the aircraft to leave due to her believing it would not make it to its destination.” A report by the Daily Mail claims her home is valued at around $2 million.

Despite having her ticket revoked, she later returned to TSA and cleared screening before being escorted out of the secured areas a second time. According to the police report, she could pass TSA screening because her boarding pass was still showing as valid in the TSA database. Since she technically cleared all the steps of the screening process, no breach of security occurred. 

 

Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) has your back.

Navigating life’s challenges, from mental health struggles to substance abuse, becomes easier with our dedicated EAP. As valued union members, you’re entitled to free, confidential, and compassionate support. Beyond personal care, we help demystify insurance and company policies, ensuring you access the best care possible. Remember, your well-being is our priority. Reach out to EAP whenever you need; we’re here to guide and stand by you.

Help can start today: CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Related News

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Detroit, MI — Victor Claude Payne, a revered union leader and cherished community figure, passed away on September 20, 2024, following a long-term illness. He was 79.Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader...

Association Update

Association Update

 The contract extension vote will be conducted by electronic voting through BallotPoint Election Services. Voting instructions and pin numbers will be sent to each member’s home address on file with American Airlines, as well as via e-mail to their company email...

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

More Info About the Viral ‘That MF’s Not Real’ Airplane Incident

August 8, 2023

By now, everyone in the airline industry knows about the “That MF’s Not Real” Incident that happened on a 2 July American Airlines flight headed to Orlando from Fort Worth.

Here’s a recap:

The Dallas Airport Police have now made public the report filed after the meltdown, revealing more of the story. 

The woman experiencing the mental health crisis is 38-year-old Tiffany Gomas, a marketing executive and head of Uppercut Marketing. According to a now-removed LinkedIn page, Gomas is a “Top-performing sales leader, Fortune 50 Account Manager & Project Management Executive.”

The meltdown was filmed by several passengers on American Airlines flight 1009 from Fort Worth, some of which have been viewed millions of times. One of the passengers aboard the flight was comedian Carrot Top, who also posted his commentary about the incident on one of his social media accounts.

In the video, Gomez says, “I’m telling you, I’m getting the f*** off, and there’s a reason why I’m getting the f*** off and everyone can either believe it or they can not believe it.”

“I don’t give two f****, but I am telling you right now – that m*****f***** back there is NOT real,” she continued, pointing toward the back of the airplane. “And you can sit on this plane and you can die with them or not. I’m not going to.”

The police report says two officers responded to the disturbance to find Gomas standing in the jet bridge. However, she refused to speak to officers and left the area. 

The report indicates that Gomas seemed very upset, tearfully stating the flight wouldn’t safely reach Florida. The officer informed her she couldn’t board the plane and issued her a trespass notice before escorting her out of the secure areas of the airport. 

She has removed her presence from social media platforms, with her Facebook and Pinterest accounts no longer available. Additionally, her Instagram profile has been set to private.

Gomas told police the incident “was sparked by an argument over wireless headphones.”

A report by journalist Bree Dail says that an American Airlines supervisor said, “The female passenger was arguing with a family accusing them of stealing her air pods. The female then started claiming that the aircraft was not safe and did not want the aircraft to leave due to her believing it would not make it to its destination.” A report by the Daily Mail claims her home is valued at around $2 million.

Despite having her ticket revoked, she later returned to TSA and cleared screening before being escorted out of the secured areas a second time. According to the police report, she could pass TSA screening because her boarding pass was still showing as valid in the TSA database. Since she technically cleared all the steps of the screening process, no breach of security occurred. 

Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) has your back.

Navigating life’s challenges, from mental health struggles to substance abuse, becomes easier with our dedicated EAP. As valued union members, you’re entitled to free, confidential, and compassionate support. Beyond personal care, an EAP Representative can help demystify insurance and company policies, ensuring you access the best care possible. Remember, your well-being is our priority. Reach out to EAP whenever you need; we’re here to guide and stand by you.

Help can start today: CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Related

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Detroit, MI — Victor Claude Payne, a revered union leader and cherished community figure, passed away on September 20, 2024, following a long-term illness. He was 79.Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader...

Association Update

Association Update

 The contract extension vote will be conducted by electronic voting through BallotPoint Election Services. Voting instructions and pin numbers will be sent to each member’s home address on file with American Airlines, as well as via e-mail to their company email...

Meet the Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Winners of 2023

Meet the Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Winners of 2023

Meet the Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Winners of 2023

IAM141.org

The District Lodge 141 Scholarship Committee, in partnership with Bleiweiss Communications Inc., is proud to announce the 2023 Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Competition winners. 

The Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship is held each year to celebrate and reward academic excellence and community commitment among children, spouses, and dependent grandchildren of Local Lodge members.

“The essays were of high quality, which we take as evidence that these young scholars take their education seriously,” shared Daniel Brin, the independent Scholarship Committee chairperson. “It is inspiring to see the dedication these students and our members demonstrate toward their academic pursuits.”

Connor Dalgaard, a Coraopolis, Pennsylvania resident and a student at Vassar College, bagged this year’s top award of $2,000. Maura Dalgaard, his mother and a Passenger Service Employee at United Airlines, is a member of Local Lodge 1044.

Six exceptional students were also recognized with awards of $1,000 each.

Kembrie Blackmon of Clearfield, Utah 

Layly Kalfaian of Washington Township, New Jersey 

Collin Krasnai of Exton, Pennsylvania

Therese Layacan of Auburn, Washington

Jacques Speyrer of Kissimmee, Florida

Linamercela Yanes of Houston, Texas

All the winners demonstrated a clear understanding of this year’s essay subject: “Public approval of labor unions among the U.S. public is at its highest level since 1965, according to a new Gallup poll. Are U.S. labor unions making a comeback? Yes or no? Why?” 

Their compelling essays, ranging between 700 to 1,000 words, stood out in a pool of submissions from high school seniors and full-time college or trade school enrollees.

Winners will receive their awards at a Local Lodge ceremony and their achievements will be acknowledged by the Machinists Union District 141.

“We encourage every student who didn’t get the award this time to participate in next year’s competition. Your perseverance and efforts deserve commendation,” said Brin. 

For winners, the next step involves emailing confirmation of enrollment at an accredited institution for the Fall 2023 term to dan@bleicomm.com.

Read the official announcement HERE+

Read the Winning Essay by Connor Dalgaard HERE +

Related News

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Detroit, MI — Victor Claude Payne, a revered union leader and cherished community figure, passed away on September 20, 2024, following a long-term illness. He was 79.Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader...

Association Update

Association Update

 The contract extension vote will be conducted by electronic voting through BallotPoint Election Services. Voting instructions and pin numbers will be sent to each member’s home address on file with American Airlines, as well as via e-mail to their company email...

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

Meet the Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Winners of 2023

August 1, 2023

The District Lodge 141 Scholarship Committee, in partnership with Bleiweiss Communications Inc., is proud to announce the 2023 Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Competition winners. 

The Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship is held each year to celebrate and reward academic excellence and community commitment among children, spouses, and dependent grandchildren of Local Lodge members.

“The essays were of high quality, which we take as evidence that these young scholars take their education seriously,” shared Daniel Brin, the independent Scholarship Committee chairperson. “It is inspiring to see the dedication these students and our members demonstrate toward their academic pursuits.”

Connor Dalgaard, a Coraopolis, Pennsylvania resident and a student at Vassar College, bagged this year’s top award of $2,000. Maura Dalgaard, his mother and a Passenger Service Employee at United Airlines, is a member of Local Lodge 1044.

Six exceptional students were also recognized with awards of $1,000 each.

Kembrie Blackmon of Clearfield, Utah 

Layly Kalfaian of Washington Township, New Jersey 

Collin Krasnai of Exton, Pennsylvania

Therese Layacan of Auburn, Washington

Jacques Speyrer of Kissimmee, Florida

Linamercela Yanes of Houston, Texas

All the winners demonstrated a clear understanding of this year’s essay subject: “Public approval of labor unions among the U.S. public is at its highest level since 1965, according to a new Gallup poll. Are U.S. labor unions making a comeback? Yes or no? Why?” 

Their compelling essays, ranging between 700 to 1,000 words, stood out in a pool of submissions from high school seniors and full-time college or trade school enrollees.

Winners will receive their awards at a Local Lodge ceremony and their achievements will be acknowledged by the Machinists Union District 141.

“We encourage every student who didn’t get the award this time to participate in next year’s competition. Your perseverance and efforts deserve commendation,” said Brin. 

For winners, the next step involves emailing confirmation of enrollment at an accredited institution for the Fall 2023 term to dan@bleicomm.com.

Read the official announcement HERE+
Read the Winning Essay by Connor Dalgaard HERE +

Related

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Detroit, MI — Victor Claude Payne, a revered union leader and cherished community figure, passed away on September 20, 2024, following a long-term illness. He was 79.Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader...

Association Update

Association Update

 The contract extension vote will be conducted by electronic voting through BallotPoint Election Services. Voting instructions and pin numbers will be sent to each member’s home address on file with American Airlines, as well as via e-mail to their company email...

FAA Reauthorization Act Receives Broad Support in House

FAA Reauthorization Act Receives Broad Support in House

FAA Reauthorization Act Receives Broad Support in House

IAM141.org

The IAM applauded the passage of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2023 in the House of Representatives.

This month, the House of Representatives approved the “Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act” (H.R. 3935). This Act is a bill to renew and modernize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and includes vital provisions that will improve aviation safety for the next five years. The bill received broad support from both political parties, passing the House with a vote of 351 to 69.

The Act still has to pass the Senate before it becomes law. 

Improves Efficiency at the Federal Aviation Administration

The bill aims to improve how the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) works. The way the FAA currently operates is inadequate for the post-pandemic surge in air travel. The bill will make the FAA more efficient and simplify existing regulations, making air travel faster and more reliable for millions. 

Grows the Aviation Workforce

Commercial aviation has a severe shortage of workers, leading to flight delays, cancellations, and overall poor service for travelers. Staffing shortages are most acute among ground and gate agents, pilots, mechanics, and air traffic controllers. This bill helps solve the problem of inadequate staffing by making it easier for people to start careers in aviation. 

Enhances the Passenger Experience

Thanks to the hard work of airline agents, the aviation system can often function without incident – despite record levels of air travelers straining the system. However, too often, passengers can experience one weak segment of their journey, leading to cascading problems that can ruin the entire trip. This bill will make air travel more reliable for all aspects of air travel. 

Upholds America’s Gold Standard in Safety

America’s aviation system is the safest mode of travel on Earth. But, it must be continually updated and modernized to stay ahead of new and emerging safety concerns. This bill will ensure that American civil aviation is the best in the world by addressing these new threats, including the recent uptick in runway incursions.

The bill will also ensure that foreign air carriers operating in the United States do not undermine labor rights or safety standards, and it will authorize a study to find solutions to improve safety for airline ramp workers. The Machinists Non-Partisan Political League has been fighting for these measures and policy changes for years. 

“We are not just leaders in the aviation industry; we are the guardians of safety, fairness, and respect,” said District President Mike Klemm. “This bill is a significant step forward in protecting those values.”

Mike Klemm is the President of the largest single group of airline workers in the Machinists Union, which, in turn, includes the largest group of unified aviation workers in North America. 

“While the bill, H.R. 3935, does not address all the IAM’s demands in an FAA reauthorization package, it does include several of our requested provisions and will ultimately help improve the safety and working conditions of our air transport members,” wrote Machinists Union International President, Robert Martinez. “This includes improved cabin air quality, robust airplane maintenance standards, and efforts to help thwart the unfortunate string of airline worker assaults and deaths in recent years.”

The Machinists Union joined a coalition of aviation-sector unions led by The Airline Pilots Association (ALPA), opposing raising the retirement age for pilots from 65 to 67 years. The groups argued that creating such a retirement age change would put the U.S. out of compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which is included in a spate of international treaties overseen by the United Nations. Existing rules require most pilots to retire at age 65.

“We are pleased that the House has passed this important legislation,” said IAM Air Transport General Vice President Richie Johnsen. Johnsen is head of the largest collection of unified airline workers in the Machinists Union, which includes unified workers at United, American, Hawaiian, and Spirit Airlines. 

“This bill will help ensure that the FAA has the resources to keep our skies safe and IAM air transport members protected from violence and abuse. We continue to stand in solidarity with ALPA to ensure the retirement age for pilots remains at 65. We now look to the Senate to pass this reauthorization package and get it signed into law.”

“This is a major win for us,” said District Legislative Director David Roderick. “But I assure you that our work is far from done,” he said. “This crucial bill is now moving to the Senate. We, at the IAM, remain committed to working with members of the Senate to make certain this vital legislation gets passed. We will not rest until our airline workers reap the benefits they rightly deserve.”

 

Related News

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Detroit, MI — Victor Claude Payne, a revered union leader and cherished community figure, passed away on September 20, 2024, following a long-term illness. He was 79.Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader...

Association Update

Association Update

 The contract extension vote will be conducted by electronic voting through BallotPoint Election Services. Voting instructions and pin numbers will be sent to each member’s home address on file with American Airlines, as well as via e-mail to their company email...

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

FAA Reauthorization Act Receives Broad Support in House

July 31, 2023

The IAM applauded the passage of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2023 in the House of Representatives.

This month, the House of Representatives approved the “Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act” (H.R. 3935). This Act is a bill to renew and modernize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and includes vital provisions that will improve aviation safety for the next five years. The bill received broad support from both political parties, passing the House with a vote of 351 to 69.

The Act still has to pass the Senate before it becomes law. 

Improves Efficiency at the Federal Aviation Administration

The bill aims to improve how the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) works. The way the FAA currently operates is inadequate for the post-pandemic surge in air travel. The bill will make the FAA more efficient and simplify existing regulations, making air travel faster and more reliable for millions. 

Grows the Aviation Workforce

Commercial aviation has a severe shortage of workers, leading to flight delays, cancellations, and overall poor service for travelers. Staffing shortages are most acute among ground and gate agents, pilots, mechanics, and air traffic controllers. This bill helps solve the problem of inadequate staffing by making it easier for people to start careers in aviation. 

Enhances the Passenger Experience

Thanks to the hard work of airline agents, the aviation system can often function without incident – despite record levels of air travelers straining the system. However, too often, passengers can experience one weak segment of their journey, leading to cascading problems that can ruin the entire trip. This bill will make air travel more reliable for all aspects of air travel. 

Upholds America’s Gold Standard in Safety

America’s aviation system is the safest mode of travel on Earth. But, it must be continually updated and modernized to stay ahead of new and emerging safety concerns. This bill will ensure that American civil aviation is the best in the world by addressing these new threats, including the recent uptick in runway incursions.

The bill will also ensure that foreign air carriers operating in the United States do not undermine labor rights or safety standards, and it will authorize a study to find solutions to improve safety for airline ramp workers. The Machinists Non-Partisan Political League has been fighting for these measures and policy changes for years. 

“We are not just leaders in the aviation industry; we are the guardians of safety, fairness, and respect,” said District President Mike Klemm. “This bill is a significant step forward in protecting those values.”

Mike Klemm is the President of the largest single group of airline workers in the Machinists Union, which, in turn, includes the largest group of unified aviation workers in North America. 

“While the bill, H.R. 3935, does not address all the IAM’s demands in an FAA reauthorization package, it does include several of our requested provisions and will ultimately help improve the safety and working conditions of our air transport members,” wrote Machinists Union International President, Robert Martinez. “This includes improved cabin air quality, robust airplane maintenance standards, and efforts to help thwart the unfortunate string of airline worker assaults and deaths in recent years.”

The Machinists Union joined a coalition of aviation-sector unions led by The Airline Pilots Association (ALPA), opposing raising the retirement age for pilots from 65 to 67 years. The groups argued that creating such a retirement age change would put the U.S. out of compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which is included in a spate of international treaties overseen by the United Nations. Existing rules require most pilots to retire at age 65.

“We are pleased that the House has passed this important legislation,” said IAM Air Transport General Vice President Richie Johnsen. Johnsen is head of the largest collection of unified airline workers in the Machinists Union, which includes unified workers at United, American, Hawaiian, and Spirit Airlines. 

“This bill will help ensure that the FAA has the resources to keep our skies safe and IAM air transport members protected from violence and abuse. We continue to stand in solidarity with ALPA to ensure the retirement age for pilots remains at 65. We now look to the Senate to pass this reauthorization package and get it signed into law.”

“This is a major win for us,” said District Legislative Director David Roderick. “But I assure you that our work is far from done,” he said. “This crucial bill is now moving to the Senate. We, at the IAM, remain committed to working with members of the Senate to make certain this vital legislation gets passed. We will not rest until our airline workers reap the benefits they rightly deserve.”

 

Related

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Detroit, MI — Victor Claude Payne, a revered union leader and cherished community figure, passed away on September 20, 2024, following a long-term illness. He was 79.Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader...

Association Update

Association Update

 The contract extension vote will be conducted by electronic voting through BallotPoint Election Services. Voting instructions and pin numbers will be sent to each member’s home address on file with American Airlines, as well as via e-mail to their company email...

Here’s the Difference Between Heat Stress, Exhaustion, and Stroke

Here’s the Difference Between Heat Stress, Exhaustion, and Stroke

Here’s the Difference Between Heat Stress, Exhaustion, and Stroke

IAM141.org

Heat-related injuries and sickness can often be hard to understand because the words used to describe them can be tricky. With hot weather warnings in the U.S., it’s crucial to understand terms like heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Think about a hot day at the beach when the temperature is around 90°F. It feels great until you start doing something that makes your body work hard, like gardening, hiking, or running for the bus. This effort makes your body temperature go up. Your heart tries to help by sending more blood to your skin, where it cools down thanks to your sweat. But if you can’t sweat because you’re dehydrated, if the air is too humid for sweat to evaporate, or if it’s just too hot for your body to handle, you could get heat injuries or sickness.

If you feel that your work area is vulnerable to heat injuries, you can take action. File a safety report and help protect your coworkers.
+ File a Safety Report

Heat Stress

“Heat stress” is a term for any problem that happens when you’re active in hot weather. Symptoms like heat rash, cramps, dizziness, or fainting are signs that your body is having trouble cooling down. If you don’t do something about it, heat stress could turn into something more serious, like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

If you’re suffering from heat stress, you should stop what you’re doing, find a cooler, shady place, and slowly drink water or clear juice. Cramps usually happen when your body has lost too much water and salts through sweating. Drinks like Gatorade or Pedialyte can help replace these, but avoid energy drinks since caffeine can cause dehydration. If the cramps don’t get better within an hour, or if you have heart problems or need to limit your salt intake, you should go to the clinic or see a doctor.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion happens when your body has lost too much water and salts because of sweating. You might feel sick, vomit, faint, slur your words, feel weak, get a headache, feel irritable, have clammy skin, and your body temperature might increase. If you get heat exhaustion many times, it can hurt your organs, especially your kidneys. Very bad heat exhaustion can cause muscle breakdown that can lead to heart rhythm problems, seizures, and damage to your kidneys.

If you or someone else has heat exhaustion, you should move to a cool place (with air conditioning if possible) and take small sips of cool liquids. Call 911 if you can’t get the person to a clinic or emergency room. Take off shoes, socks, and any tight or heavy clothes, and use water or cold compresses on the head, face, neck, and wrists.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is the worst kind of heat sickness. It happens when your body can’t control its temperature and gets hotter than 104°F. You might stop sweating, and your body temperature can reach 108°F in just 10-15 minutes. Other symptoms can include passing out, having seizures, or acting strangely without quick medical help, which could include a cold IV drip; heat stroke can cause disability or death in a few hours.

Heat-related illnesses, such as heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, can be serious and life-threatening if not properly addressed. It’s crucial to stay hydrated, take breaks, and seek cool environments when spending time in the heat. Should symptoms of any heat-related illness appear, take immediate action and seek medical attention if necessary. Stay safe and informed during the hot weather, because understanding these conditions can make a significant difference in your health and well-being.

Remember, if you see anyone suffering from heat related injuries, it is important to file a GSAP, GSIP, or equivalent safety report as soon as it is safe to do so. GSAP and GSIP reports are non-punitive, and offer the best way to protect your work area from safety hazards such as heat-related injuries. 

+ File a Safety Report

Related News

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Detroit, MI — Victor Claude Payne, a revered union leader and cherished community figure, passed away on September 20, 2024, following a long-term illness. He was 79.Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader...

Association Update

Association Update

 The contract extension vote will be conducted by electronic voting through BallotPoint Election Services. Voting instructions and pin numbers will be sent to each member’s home address on file with American Airlines, as well as via e-mail to their company email...

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

Here’s the Difference Between Heat Stress, Exhaustion, and Stroke

July 18, 2023

Heat-related injuries and sickness can often be hard to understand because the words used to describe them can be tricky. With hot weather warnings in the U.S., it’s crucial to understand terms like heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Think about a hot day at the beach when the temperature is around 90°F. It feels great until you start doing something that makes your body work hard, like gardening, hiking, or running for the bus. This effort makes your body temperature go up. Your heart tries to help by sending more blood to your skin, where it cools down thanks to your sweat. But if you can’t sweat because you’re dehydrated, if the air is too humid for sweat to evaporate, or if it’s just too hot for your body to handle, you could get heat injuries or sickness.

If you feel that your work area is vulnerable to heat injuries, you can take action. File a safety report and help protect your coworkers.
+ File a Safety Report

Heat Stress

“Heat stress” is a term for any problem that happens when you’re active in hot weather. Symptoms like heat rash, cramps, dizziness, or fainting are signs that your body is having trouble cooling down. If you don’t do something about it, heat stress could turn into something more serious, like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

If you’re suffering from heat stress, you should stop what you’re doing, find a cooler, shady place, and slowly drink water or clear juice. Cramps usually happen when your body has lost too much water and salts through sweating. Drinks like Gatorade or Pedialyte can help replace these, but avoid energy drinks since caffeine can cause dehydration. If the cramps don’t get better within an hour, or if you have heart problems or need to limit your salt intake, you should go to the clinic or see a doctor.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion happens when your body has lost too much water and salts because of sweating. You might feel sick, vomit, faint, slur your words, feel weak, get a headache, feel irritable, have clammy skin, and your body temperature might increase. If you get heat exhaustion many times, it can hurt your organs, especially your kidneys. Very bad heat exhaustion can cause muscle breakdown that can lead to heart rhythm problems, seizures, and damage to your kidneys.

If you or someone else has heat exhaustion, you should move to a cool place (with air conditioning if possible) and take small sips of cool liquids. Call 911 if you can’t get the person to a clinic or emergency room. Take off shoes, socks, and any tight or heavy clothes, and use water or cold compresses on the head, face, neck, and wrists.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is the worst kind of heat sickness. It happens when your body can’t control its temperature and gets hotter than 104°F. You might stop sweating, and your body temperature can reach 108°F in just 10-15 minutes. Other symptoms can include passing out, having seizures, or acting strangely without quick medical help, which could include a cold IV drip; heat stroke can cause disability or death in a few hours.

Heat-related illnesses, such as heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, can be serious and life-threatening if not properly addressed. It’s crucial to stay hydrated, take breaks, and seek cool environments when spending time in the heat. Should symptoms of any heat-related illness appear, take immediate action and seek medical attention if necessary. Stay safe and informed during the hot weather, because understanding these conditions can make a significant difference in your health and well-being.

Remember, if you see anyone suffering from heat related injuries, it is important to file a GSAP, GSIP, or equivalent safety report as soon as it is safe to do so. GSAP and GSIP reports are non-punitive, and offer the best way to protect your work area from safety hazards such as heat-related injuries. 

+ File a Safety Report

Related

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Detroit, MI — Victor Claude Payne, a revered union leader and cherished community figure, passed away on September 20, 2024, following a long-term illness. He was 79.Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader...

Association Update

Association Update

 The contract extension vote will be conducted by electronic voting through BallotPoint Election Services. Voting instructions and pin numbers will be sent to each member’s home address on file with American Airlines, as well as via e-mail to their company email...

Hurry, There’s Still Time! Thousands of Dollars in Scholarship Money is Available!

Hurry, There’s Still Time! Thousands of Dollars in Scholarship Money is Available!

Hurry, There’s Still Time! Thousands of Dollars in Scholarship Money is Available!

IAM141.org

Calling all members of Machinists Union District 141! If you’ve ever considered continuing your education or know someone who is, now is the time to take advantage of the unique opportunity before you – the 2023 Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Essay Competition. This is no ordinary competition; there’s an abundance of unclaimed scholarship money waiting for worthy candidates. Thousands of dollars are up for grabs and could go home with you or a family member!

Currently, more scholarships are available than entries, which means your odds of securing one are higher than ever. The deadline to submit entries is fast approaching: midnight, July 15, 2023. So, we strongly urge you to put pen to paper, or rather, fingers to keyboard, and get your entries in!

The scholarship is open to children, spouses, and dependent grandchildren of members who’ve been in good standing for a year or more (as of June 1, 2022) in District Lodge 141. These members should be graduating high school seniors or enrolled full-time in a college or trade school. Our members enrolled in college or trade school, taking at least six units per semester, are also eligible to enter the competition. Only one award per family is allowed. And, if you’ve already won a scholarship, you’ll have to sit this it out. 

The 2023 essay competition asks you to delve into the subject, “Public approval of labor unions among the U.S. public is at its highest level since 1965, according to a new Gallup poll. Are U.S. labor unions making a comeback? Yes or no? Why?” Your essay must be between 700 to 1,000 words and submitted as a Microsoft Word document to dan@bleicomm.com. Please include a recent photograph of yourself, place the title and your name at the top of the document, and include a bibliography of sources for your essay material. To ensure that the work submitted is entirely yours – authenticity matters!

The awards are too big to miss. One overall winner will be awarded $2,000, and six placement winners will each receive $1,000. The winners will be announced around August 1, 2023, after careful and impartial judgment by an outside Scholarship Committee chaired by Daniel Brin.

The winning contestants will be honored at a local lodge ceremony and published by Machinists Union District 141. 

This is a tremendous opportunity to let your voice be heard, gain recognition, and secure funding for your education. So why wait? 

Take up your metaphorical pen and begin crafting your thoughts. We look forward to reading your entries! Don’t let this opportunity and the unclaimed scholarship money go to waste. Hurry, the competition ends soon!

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 The contract extension vote will be conducted by electronic voting through BallotPoint Election Services. Voting instructions and pin numbers will be sent to each member’s home address on file with American Airlines, as well as via e-mail to their company email...

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

Hurry, There’s Still Time! Thousands of Dollars in Scholarship Money is Available!

July 2, 2023

Calling all members of Machinists Union District 141! If you’ve ever considered continuing your education or know someone who is, now is the time to take advantage of the unique opportunity before you – the 2023 Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Essay Competition. This is no ordinary competition; there’s an abundance of unclaimed scholarship money waiting for worthy candidates. Thousands of dollars are up for grabs and could go home with you or a family member!

Currently, more scholarships are available than entries, which means your odds of securing one are higher than ever. The deadline to submit entries is fast approaching: midnight, July 15, 2023. So, we strongly urge you to put pen to paper, or rather, fingers to keyboard, and get your entries in!

The scholarship is open to children, spouses, and dependent grandchildren of members who’ve been in good standing for a year or more (as of June 1, 2022) in District Lodge 141. These members should be graduating high school seniors or enrolled full-time in a college or trade school. Our members enrolled in college or trade school, taking at least six units per semester, are also eligible to enter the competition. Only one award per family is allowed. And, if you’ve already won a scholarship, you’ll have to sit this it out. 

The 2023 essay competition asks you to delve into the subject, “Public approval of labor unions among the U.S. public is at its highest level since 1965, according to a new Gallup poll. Are U.S. labor unions making a comeback? Yes or no? Why?” Your essay must be between 700 to 1,000 words and submitted as a Microsoft Word document to dan@bleicomm.com. Please include a recent photograph of yourself, place the title and your name at the top of the document, and include a bibliography of sources for your essay material. To ensure that the work submitted is entirely yours – authenticity matters!

The awards are too big to miss. One overall winner will be awarded $2,000, and six placement winners will each receive $1,000. The winners will be announced around August 1, 2023, after careful and impartial judgment by an outside Scholarship Committee chaired by Daniel Brin.

The winning contestants will be honored at a local lodge ceremony and published by Machinists Union District 141. 

This is a tremendous opportunity to let your voice be heard, gain recognition, and secure funding for your education. So why wait? 

Take up your metaphorical pen and begin crafting your thoughts. We look forward to reading your entries! Don’t let this opportunity and the unclaimed scholarship money go to waste. Hurry, the competition ends soon!

Related

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

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Detroit, MI — Victor Claude Payne, a revered union leader and cherished community figure, passed away on September 20, 2024, following a long-term illness. He was 79.Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader...

Association Update

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Ingestion Fatality at SAT Airport Ruled a Suicide

Ingestion Fatality at SAT Airport Ruled a Suicide

Ingestion Fatality at SAT Airport Ruled a Suicide

IAM141.org

In a tragic incident late Friday night at San Antonio International Airport, a ground crew member, David Renner, 27, lost his life after he was pulled into the engine of a Delta Air Lines plane. Firefighters and police officers responded to the event around 10:25 p.m.

According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), “Delta Flight 1111 was taxiing to the gate, with one engine on at that time, and a worker was ingested into that engine at 10:25 p.m.” The NTSB confirmed the incident on Saturday, stating the man was indeed “ingested” into the engine. The flight had just arrived from Los Angeles.

According to a report from the San Antonio Express, the plane’s captain “felt the aircraft shake,” as Renner was pulled into the engine. A police report indicated that Renner passed a suicide note to a coworker, wrapped in a one-dollar bill. He then watched as Renner walked, “to the captain’s side of the jet, bend down and jump up into the engine.”

On Monday, the Bexar County Medical Examiner ruled his cause of death as blunt and sharp-force injuries, and listed the manner of death as suicide.

This information was also provided to the NTSB, who responded, “The NTSB will not be opening an investigation into this event. There were no operational safety issues with either the airplane or the airport,” indicating a belief that the tragic event didn’t raise concerns about overall airport safety.

 

Renner was employed by Unifi Aviation, a company Delta Airlines contracts to support ground-handling operations. The Federal Aviation Administration, which regulates airlines and aviation safety, has indicated that it would proceed with an investigation into the incident.

Responding to the incident, Delta said it was “grieving the loss of an aviation family member’s life in San Antonio.” The airline expressed its full support for the ongoing investigations.

Unifi Aviation has been wracked with employee complaints over poor training, short staffing, and low pay, all of which contribute to extraordinary levels of turnover at the company. The mass influx of new and inexperienced employees is a safety concern, according to industry experts.

“My experience here at Unifi in MSO has been highly unsatisfactory,” said one worker who did not want to be named. “Largely due to the inadequate trainers and ineffective leadership,” he continued. The contractor holds a two-star rating from employees on Glassdoor.com. Only 42% of current employees would recommend working at Unifi to a friend.

In a short statement, the company was quick to disavow itself of any responsibiity in the fatality.

The statement read, “Unifi Aviation is deeply saddened by the loss of our employee at San Antonio International Airport during a tragic incident in the late hours of Friday, June 23, 2023. Our hearts go out to the deceased’s family, and we remain focused on supporting our employees on the ground and ensuring they are being taken care of during this time. From our initial investigation, this incident was unrelated to Unifi’s operational processes, safety procedures, and policies. Out of respect for the deceased, we will not be sharing any additional information. While police and other officials continue to investigate this incident, we defer to them on providing further details.”

Unifi, like Delta, is based in Atlanta and describes itself as North America’s largest ground-handling and aviation services provider, boasting a workforce of 20,000 aviation workers who handle baggage, cargo, catering, fueling, and other jobs at 200 locations.

According to online job postings, Average Unifi hourly pay for new employees starts at approximately $11.94 per hour.

 

This Message Found You For A Reason

Life has a way of throwing challenges at us, but you don’t have to face them alone. District 141’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is here for you.

 

Remember, reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but a strength. EAP offers free, professional, and compassionate assistance to all members of District 141 who may be struggling with life’s difficulties, be it personal or work-related.

 

Start your journey towards better health and wellbeing today. Click here to learn more about the District 141 EAP and how it can assist you. You’re not alone, and help is just a click away.

  

You’ve got this, and we’ve got you.

 

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Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

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Detroit, MI — Victor Claude Payne, a revered union leader and cherished community figure, passed away on September 20, 2024, following a long-term illness. He was 79.Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader...

Association Update

Association Update

 The contract extension vote will be conducted by electronic voting through BallotPoint Election Services. Voting instructions and pin numbers will be sent to each member’s home address on file with American Airlines, as well as via e-mail to their company email...

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

Ingestion Fatality at SAT Airport Ruled a Suicide

June 29, 2023

In a tragic incident late Friday night at San Antonio International Airport, a ground crew member, David Renner, 27, lost his life after he was pulled into the engine of a Delta Air Lines plane. Firefighters and police officers responded to the event around 10:25 p.m.

According to the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), “Delta Flight 1111 was taxiing to the gate, with one engine on at that time, and a worker was ingested into that engine at 10:25 p.m.” The NTSB confirmed the incident on Saturday, stating the man was indeed “ingested” into the engine. The flight had just arrived from Los Angeles.

According to a report from the San Antonio Express, the plane’s captain “felt the aircraft shake,” as Renner was pulled into the engine. A police report indicated that Renner passed a suicide note to a coworker, wrapped in a one-dollar bill. He then watched as Renner walked, “to the captain’s side of the jet, bend down and jump up into the engine.”

On Monday, the Bexar County Medical Examiner ruled his cause of death as blunt and sharp-force injuries, and listed the manner of death as suicide.

This information was also provided to the NTSB, who responded, “The NTSB will not be opening an investigation into this event. There were no operational safety issues with either the airplane or the airport,” indicating a belief that the tragic event didn’t raise concerns about overall airport safety.

 

Renner was employed by Unifi Aviation, a company Delta Airlines contracts to support ground-handling operations. The Federal Aviation Administration, which regulates airlines and aviation safety, has indicated that it would proceed with an investigation into the incident.
Responding to the incident, Delta said it was “grieving the loss of an aviation family member’s life in San Antonio.” The airline expressed its full support for the ongoing investigations.

Unifi Aviation has been wracked with employee complaints over poor training, short staffing, and low pay, all of which contribute to extraordinary levels of turnover at the company. The mass influx of new and inexperienced employees is a safety concern, according to industry experts.

“My experience here at Unifi in MSO has been highly unsatisfactory,” said one worker who did not want to be named. “Largely due to the inadequate trainers and ineffective leadership,” he continued. The contractor holds a two-star rating from employees on Glassdoor.com. Only 42% of current employees would recommend working at Unifi to a friend.

In a short statement, the company was quick to disavow itself of any responsibiity in the fatality.

The statement read, “Unifi Aviation is deeply saddened by the loss of our employee at San Antonio International Airport during a tragic incident in the late hours of Friday, June 23, 2023. Our hearts go out to the deceased’s family, and we remain focused on supporting our employees on the ground and ensuring they are being taken care of during this time. From our initial investigation, this incident was unrelated to Unifi’s operational processes, safety procedures, and policies. Out of respect for the deceased, we will not be sharing any additional information. While police and other officials continue to investigate this incident, we defer to them on providing further details.”

Unifi, like Delta, is based in Atlanta and describes itself as North America’s largest ground-handling and aviation services provider, boasting a workforce of 20,000 aviation workers who handle baggage, cargo, catering, fueling, and other jobs at 200 locations.

According to online job postings, Average Unifi hourly pay for new employees starts at approximately $11.94 per hour.

 

This Message Found You For A Reason

Life has a way of throwing challenges at us, but you don’t have to face them alone. District 141’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is here for you.

 

Remember, reaching out for help is not a sign of weakness, but a strength. EAP offers free, professional, and compassionate assistance to all members of District 141 who may be struggling with life’s difficulties, be it personal or work-related.

 

Start your journey towards better health and wellbeing today. Click here to learn more about the District 141 EAP and how it can assist you. You’re not alone, and help is just a click away.

  

You’ve got this, and we’ve got you.

 

Related

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79

Detroit, MI — Victor Claude Payne, a revered union leader and cherished community figure, passed away on September 20, 2024, following a long-term illness. He was 79.Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader and Community Advocate, Dies at 79Vic Payne, Respected Union Leader...

Association Update

Association Update

 The contract extension vote will be conducted by electronic voting through BallotPoint Election Services. Voting instructions and pin numbers will be sent to each member’s home address on file with American Airlines, as well as via e-mail to their company email...