More than 1,500 contract airport workers in Philadelphia took a giant step away from poverty towards a better future by voting unanimously to ratify their first-ever union contract. The landmark contract provides raises up to $13.60 an hour, paid time off, and job protections. The Philadelphia International Airport is now among the first group of airports in the nation where an overwhelming majority of subcontracted workers have unionized.
“Since we started coming together with our union we have doubled our pay and now have job protection and other benefits. Our union contract gives us a voice on the job and helps make our lives and the Philadelphia airport better,” said Timothy Glenn, a 32BJ SEIU member and wheelchair agent who has worked at the airport since 2010.
Airport workers announced their victory with the support of Mayor Jim Kenney, Council members, and local clergy.
“I am proud of Philadelphia airport workers for winning a union contract that gives them the dignity, rights on the job and living wage that was long overdue. The best way to combat poverty in our city is through good union jobs,” said Mayor Kenney.
