Quantcast

Grand Forks airport firefighters unionize seeking enhanced benefits

Grand Forks airport firefighters unionize seeking enhanced benefits
Research
Webp 8oqxsxvoo4u54j4f99go99w8ygxu
AviationPros | AviationPros

Grand Forks International Airport firefighters have voted to unionize, a move primarily motivated by anticipated benefits rather than existing issues. Tim Burrows, ARFF operations specialist, stated that the decision was about "the additional benefits" and "has nothing to do with the politics."

The announcement of the vote was made during an Airport Authority Board meeting on May 15. The benefits that influenced their decision include more training opportunities, enhanced health benefits, access to an international peer group, support for firefighter safety research on issues like cancer and PFAS, and participation in charitable events such as the Fill the Boot campaign and Toys for Tots.

Burrows expressed optimism about future collaborations: "We look forward to having a great relationship with all constituents that we work for and work with."

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Ryan Riesinger, executive director of the airport, noted he learned of the unionization plans earlier in the week. He acknowledged not having received any official documentation from either the local union or the International Association of Firefighters but confirmed discussions had occurred about exceeding Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) training requirements.

Riesinger said that while they meet FAA standards for fire responsibilities, there is interest among staff and union members in going beyond these minimum requirements: "We already do in some cases, but I think they're looking for additional training, or additional areas where they can really go beyond the minimum requirements. We're open to those discussions."

He also mentioned being informed directly that pay, benefits, and scheduling were not concerns driving the decision: "They're happy with all of those things, so I was pleased to hear that," Riesinger added.

###

Organizations Included in this History
More News

Over recent days, tensions in the Middle East have increased, leading to significant disruptions.

Jun 25, 2025

Iberia has announced a new temporary service using the Airbus A321XLR from Madrid to Santo Domingo.

Jun 25, 2025

JetBlue is reportedly preparing to retire its Embraer E190 aircraft, with the final flight expected on September 4, 2025.

Jun 25, 2025

Ryanair, easyJet, and Wizz Air are prominent low-cost carriers operating across Europe and some nearby countries.

Jun 25, 2025

Flying Food Group at Los Angeles International Airport (LAI) recently took the opportunity to recognize the contributions of fathers and father figures within their team.

Jun 24, 2025

Flying Food Group has announced the successful catering of its first Virgin Atlantic flight from Los Angeles International Airport on June 17, 2025.

Jun 24, 2025