Summary TWU Local 556 refuses to attend Southwest Airlines meeting with Elliott Investment Management due to a "restrictive" NDA. The two companies are set to meet next month for the first time. Some flight attendants have expressed disappointment in not participating in discussions.
TWU Local 556, the union representing Southwest Airlines ’ flight attendants, is speaking out after being requested to attend a meeting by the carrier’s management in regard to Elliott Investment Management. The union’s leaders were reportedly asked to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA), but have refused. It comes as the investment company recently sent a letter to the Dallas-based airline, criticizing its leadership, including CEO Bob Jordan and Chairman Gary Kelly.
Since purchasing shares in Southwest, Elliott has claimed it can improve the carrier’s culture and financial performance. A message from the President Bill Bernal, TWU Local 556 President, shared an update with the union’s more than 21,000 flight attendants on Sunday. Bernal cited a “restrictive” NDA for its reasoning behind not attending the meeting called by Southwest’s leaders.
“Recently, the Company contacted TWU Local 556 as well as other Unions within the Company to request a meeting regarding Elliott Investment Management. However, after careful consideration, we have decided not to participate in the proposed meeting due to the restrictive nature of the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) that the Company insi.