July 17, 2026, Atlanta, GA – Less than one year after voting to join the Transportation Communications Union/IAM (TCU/IAM), the Alstom technicians who operate and maintain the Plane Train at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport have resoundingly ratified their first collective bargaining agreement.
The agreement concludes a hard-fought round of bargaining and establishes the hallmarks of a strong first contract, including seniority rights, a grievance and arbitration procedure, just cause protections, and other fundamental workplace rights, while also delivering significant economic gains.
The five-year agreement includes an immediate 18% wage increase with retroactive pay to April 2026, followed by 3% annual wage increases throughout the remainder of the agreement, a $2,600 ratification bonus, five paid sick days with an annual cash-out option for unused leave, a 5% premium for Lead Technicians, and five paid holidays.
The Alstom employees made history in August 2025 when they voted to join TCU/IAM in the first joint organizing campaign between TCU/IAM and the IAM Rail Division. Workers organized around common concerns including job security, fair wages, better working conditions, and a stronger voice on the job.
Organizers Sal Rodriguez and Juan Estrada, who helped lead the successful organizing campaign, praised the members for remaining united throughout both the organizing drive and contract negotiations.
“Solidarity wins! Proud to mobilize with our TCU Brothers and Sisters to help Plane Train workers secure their union voice.”
– Juan Estrada, International Representative, IAM Rail Division
“From the very first organizing conversations to the final ratification vote, these workers never lost sight of why they came together. Their determination turned hope into a contract they can build on for years to come.”
– Sal Rodriguez, IAM Organizing Assistant Coordinator
“Winning an election is an important first step, but negotiating and ratifying a first agreement is where workers truly begin to realize the value of standing together,” said TCU/IAM National President Matt Hollis. “These members stayed united throughout the bargaining process and earned an agreement that delivers meaningful wage increases, stronger workplace protections, and a real voice on the job. We congratulate every member whose solidarity made this first contract a reality.”
The Alstom employees operate and maintain the Plane Train, the automated people mover system that transports approximately 250,000 passengers each day between terminals at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the world’s busiest airport.
“This agreement demonstrates what workers can accomplish when they organize and remain united at the bargaining table,” said Josh Hartford, Special Assistant to IAM International President Brian Bryant. “First contracts are never simply handed to workers. They are earned through solidarity, perseverance, and the determination to see negotiations through. These members have built a strong foundation for the future.”
From organizing their workplace to ratifying their first collective bargaining agreement, the Alstom Plane Train workers have demonstrated the power of collective action and secured a contract that will strengthen working families for years to come.