JetBlue Workers Say Enough is Enough: IAM Union Pushes to Empower Employees with a Historic Vote

Published on November 26, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

In a dramatic move set to shake the airline industry, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM Union) has announced its plans to file an application with the National Mediation Board (NMB) to demand a union representation election for JetBlue’s Ground Operations workers. This crucial step comes after a series of failed promises from JetBlue management and a turbulent union-busting campaign, ultimately leading to an ongoing battle for the rights and dignity of workers in one of the country’s most renowned airlines.

A Historic Moment for JetBlue Workers

The IAM Union, a force to be reckoned with in North America’s airline sector, stands shoulder to shoulder with JetBlue’s brave fleet service workers. In a powerful statement, IAM’s International President Brian Bryant commended the JetBlue Ground Operations workers for their unwavering solidarity and determination to secure the right to vote for union representation. This bold move could pave the way for a major shift in the dynamics between airline management and the workforce, empowering employees to gain the fair treatment they deserve.

Despite a highly aggressive anti-union campaign from JetBlue management between December 2022 and February 2023, the desire among the workforce for union representation remains strong. Workers have reported significant dissatisfaction with management promises that were made during the union-busting campaign—promises which have gone unfulfilled, further fuelling resentment and a desire for change.

JetBlue’s Failed Promises: A Broken Trust

The past year has witnessed an intense battle between JetBlue management and its employees. In a highly orchestrated union-busting campaign, JetBlue management made several enticing promises to the workforce, aiming to quell their desire for union representation. However, the reality has been far from what was promised. Workers report that many of the management’s commitments, including improved pay, benefits, and safety measures, have yet to materialize.

Workers who initially voted against unionisation during the union-busting campaign now feel betrayed and are demanding a fair shot at making their voices heard. The broken promises have left many questioning the sincerity of JetBlue’s leadership, and the workers are now pushing for a voice at the table that would allow them to take control of their own future.

The IAM Union: A Powerful Ally for JetBlue Workers

Now, more than ever, JetBlue workers need strong, reliable support, and the IAM Union stands ready to provide just that. With over 600,000 active members across North America, the IAM is the largest air transport union on the continent, representing workers at every major US airline. IAM’s influence and resources are unmatched, making it a powerful advocate for workers’ rights in the face of union-busting tactics and unfair management practices.

Richie Johnsen, IAM’s General Vice President for Air Transport, voiced his confidence in the workers’ decision to pursue unionisation. He believes that it’s the right time for JetBlue workers to join the IAM family and gain the dignity, respect, and benefits that come with a union contract. For many, the opportunity to work with IAM represents a lifeline that could ultimately secure their safety, job security, and fair treatment.

The Struggle for Better Conditions: Why JetBlue Workers Need a Union Now

JetBlue workers are not asking for the world—they’re simply asking for fair wages, better benefits, job security, and safer working conditions. Their struggle is not unique; it reflects a broader issue in the airline industry, where many frontline workers are subjected to low pay, unsafe working environments, and lack of job security. At JetBlue, employees have raised alarms about unsafe working conditions, poor discipline practices, and unjustified terminations that threaten their livelihoods.

In this climate of dissatisfaction and growing tension, it’s clear that the current system is failing the workers. Conditions must improve, and a union is the way forward. By gaining union representation, JetBlue’s Ground Operations workers would have the power to negotiate fair pay and benefits, ensure their safety on the job, and eliminate the possibility of unjust terminations.

A Call for Fairness: The Importance of a Free and Fair Election

The IAM Union is committed to ensuring that the upcoming union representation election is conducted fairly and without interference from JetBlue management. Richie Johnsen, a strong advocate for the rights of workers, has made it clear that any attempt by JetBlue to influence or coerce the election results will be met with fierce resistance.

“We expect JetBlue management to respect the law and allow its workers to vote without interference,” said Johnsen. “If they don’t, we will hold them accountable.” This statement highlights the IAM’s readiness to take a stand against any form of intimidation or coercion, ensuring that workers’ voices are heard in a truly democratic process.

JetBlue Workers Deserve Better: The Time for Change is Now

Now, more than ever, the call for union representation at JetBlue is growing louder. Employees are demanding to be heard, to secure better working conditions, and to protect their jobs from unfair treatment. The union election represents the chance for these workers to take back control of their futures and to demand the respect they’ve long deserved.

Mike Klemm, IAM District 141 President, emphasized the importance of this election, stating, “The IAM will support JetBlue workers in getting to and winning this election.” For Klemm, this is about more than just fair wages—it’s about restoring dignity to a workforce that has been taken for granted for far too long.

Why Union Representation Is Crucial for JetBlue Workers

Union representation is essential for ensuring that workers are treated with the respect they deserve. Without it, employees often have little power to negotiate fair pay or address unsafe working conditions. By joining the IAM Union, JetBlue workers would gain access to the collective power of over 600,000 workers who have successfully fought for better wages, safer workplaces, and stronger protections in the airline industry.

The IAM’s long track record of success in representing airline workers speaks volumes about the benefits of unionisation. With IAM at their side, JetBlue workers would be able to ensure their voice is heard, their rights are protected, and their conditions are improved.

The IAM: North America’s Largest Airline Union

The IAM Union is one of North America’s largest and most diverse industrial trade unions, representing workers in various sectors, including aerospace, defence, airlines, healthcare, and automotive industries. With its roots deeply embedded in the airline industry, the IAM has a proven history of advocating for workers in the aviation sector and securing better pay, working conditions, and benefits.

JetBlue workers joining the IAM would become part of a powerful network that has consistently fought for workers’ rights. With the IAM’s support, workers would be able to demand fair treatment from management and negotiate contracts that truly reflect their value.

Workers Have the Power to Change Their Future

The decision to join the IAM Union is ultimately in the hands of JetBlue’s Ground Operations workers. The IAM has shown its unwavering support and commitment to ensuring that these workers have the opportunity to secure the rights and respect they deserve. If JetBlue workers stand united and vote for union representation, they will have the power to change their future for the better.

Now is the time for JetBlue workers to step forward, demand a fair election, and make their voices heard. The IAM Union stands ready to support them every step of the way.