Northwest Airlines (NWA) has accused the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) members of systematically refusing overtime. But under the existing contract, overtime is voluntary. Mechanics have been working under an extension of the previous contract, which expired four years ago. Union officials insist they have complied with the restraining order, but admit that many rank-and-file members are frustrated with the lack of progress in negotiations. Lee Seham, an attorney for AMFA, reported to the Minneapolis Star Tribune, "When union leaders have met with mechanics to stress the importance of following the law, they have at times been met with profanities."

AMFA began negotiations with Northwest about a year ago, after they won a union representation election against the International Association of Machinists (IAM) in 1998. The mechanics voted for AMFA representation seeking a change from the practices of the IAM officials, who failed to win a new contract despite growing profits by NWA. AMFA is a craft union.

The mechanics have the support of airline workers who are members of IAM. One worker, a baggage handler at Northwest for three years stated, "I believe NWA is making enough profits and should bargain with the mechanics. [Negotiations] will be a catalyst for better pay" for ramp workers as well. Kurt Jaspers, a flight attendant for fifteen-and-a-half years, explained, "They shouldn't take four years to get a contract."

Others are opposed to Northwest taking the union to court. When asked if he thought the company has a right to tie up the union in federal court, Harry Jovet responded, "Not really. The company always wants everything for themselves. And forget about everyone else." One flight attendant stated, "The federal government should not interfere."

A number of workers said the company sent a letter to employees stating the mechanics are demanding wages of $170,000 a year. The workers see this as an attempt to create hostilities among the workforce.  
 
 
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