The Federal Aviation Administration has issued a formal warning to Southwest Airlines and the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association, citing risks to safety protocols amid their protracted contract dispute. The agency’s letter emphasized the need for collaboration to uphold aviation safety standards, following a 2015 photo showing grounded aircraft at maintenance facilities.
The conflict, which has persisted since 2012, escalated this week when Southwest filed a lawsuit seeking judicial intervention. The airline’s CEO reported weekly revenue losses exceeding millions due to flight cancellations and delays, while the union accused management of diverting attention from safety concerns.
FAA associate administrator Ali Bahrami stated in the letter that "cooperative efforts in accordance with FAA standards" are essential to maintaining safety. The agency confirmed it would enhance oversight during the dispute but reiterated its neutrality in labor negotiations.
Southwest, which operates one of the largest U.S. domestic networks, claims all maintenance reports are investigated. However, an unusual number of out-of-service aircraft at four maintenance locations has caused widespread flight disruptions, according to the report.
