Side-by-Side Breakdown
AWA vs IAM
The AWA provides more resources and gives power and control to members
Category
AWA
IAM
Representation Focus
Built exclusively for airline workers
Represents dozens of unrelated industries
Contract Negotiation
Dedicated airline industry negotiators
Generalist negotiators spread across industries
Member Dues
Competitive dues — every dollar stays in aviation
Dues fund a massive multi-industry bureaucracy
Leadership Accountability
Transparent, member-driven leadership
Top-down structure with limited member input
Strike Fund
Dedicated strike fund for airline workers
Shared fund diluted across all industries
Industry Expertise
Deep knowledge of FAA rules, airline ops & contracts
Limited airline-specific expertise at the top
Member Communication
Direct, timely updates to every member
Slow, bureaucratic communication channels
Grievance Process
Fast, airline-focused grievance resolution
Backlogged process shared with unrelated trades
The Resource Pie
20% of Dues goes into arbitration, according to the constitution. 50% goes into negotiations and representation. 30% goes for administration, Professionals, and Officer salaries
25% for Political. 62% for Grand Lodge and District salary and benefits. 7 Conventions and Conferences per year(Hotel, food, booze) 7%. Locals get 4%. Arbitrations and negotiations 2%.
0% for attorneys in negotiations or arbitrations (No more resources left)
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