IAM Representatives Francois Bisi, Mike Manzo and I recently met with the new head of Human Resources, Sarah Bizeray in New York. The meeting was setup in order to have our first introductions and get an update on the upcoming changes regarding the Level branding operation.
As of January 1, 2018, the US crew base will be down to fourteen members. The Company is looking to hire 40 more cabin crew to accommodate the new brand. Some of this hiring may be into the US base as well but the exact amount in each base is undecided at this time.
There was no information available regarding upgrading any CCMs to CCLs at this time but once we receive any information on this we will advise you as soon as possible.
Regarding the transition from the OpenSkies brand to the Level brand, this will be occurring beginning in July with completion scheduled for September. During this period where both the OpenSkies and Level brands are being operated, both the US based crew and French based crews will be operating both brands as needed and then both the US and French based crews will be operating under the Level brand.
Rostering has been a major area of concern since the announcement of the new destinations under the Level brand. While the Company doesn’t have specifics on what the rostering will look like or if “W style trips” would be possible for the US based crews under regulations. We plan to have further conversation with the Company regarding specific regulations and what the rosters would look like and will keep you advised.
The training for both the French and US based cabin crew on the new aircraft and the Level brand customer service is set to begin in April and the goal is to be completed by end of June (except for new entrants). The training classes will normally be 8 days, 3 of which will be focused solely on the Level brand and customer service, but the final information will be released as soon as possible.
Regarding hotels in the new destinations we expressed our interest in the US based crews being a part of the hotel selection process. If you’re interested in being a part of the hotel committee please email me at .
The good news we received is that the financial outlook is extremely improved under the new Level branding. OpenSkies should restore its profitability as of 2019 according to the plan.
In addition, if you hear of any other rumors or would like to address specific concerns please call me at 281-827-3965.
In Solidarity,
Sara Gonzales
GENERAL CHAIR
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