WASHINGTON, DC—Following the announcement of layoffs in Pittsburgh, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) wrote US Airways CEO Doug Parker calling for better treatment of employees in Pittsburgh and more clarity on the future of US Airways in Pittsburgh.
“First and foremost, I call on you to ensure that all affected employees are treated in an equitable and dignified manner,” wrote Senator Casey. “Moving forward, the existing workforce deserves some evidence of your commitment to the Pittsburgh region. Many of my constituents are justifiably skeptical about your intentions given your actions in recent years.”
A copy of the letter is below.
Dear Mr. Parker:
The purpose of this letter is to express my strong concern about US Airways’ recent announcement that it intends to again eliminate several jobs at Pittsburgh International Airport.
First and foremost, I call on you to ensure that all affected employees are treated in an equitable and dignified manner. The business decisions you make have an intense and long-lasting impact on your employees and their families, as well as all of the citizens of southwestern Pennsylvania. While I recognize the changing nature of the aviation market, Pittsburgh continues to absorb the brunt of your company’s workforce reductions. Moving forward, the existing workforce deserves some evidence of your commitment to the Pittsburgh region. Many of my constituents are justifiably skeptical about your intentions given your actions in recent years.
On previous occasions, I have expressed concern about US Airways’ failure to properly communicate with my constituents in southwestern Pennsylvania, including the employees that make up the US Airways workforce in the region. I reiterate these concerns. I urge you to make improving this aspect of your operation a priority. This unfortunate decision is causing significant stress for your employees. I urge you to provide as many details as practicable about the airline's future in Pittsburgh.
Thank you and I look forward to your response to this letter.
Sincerely,
Robert P. Casey, Jr.
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