Island Air pilots came out in record numbers last week to vote on, and ultimately ratify, an agreement for new ATR aircraft. Every eligible member participated in this ballot—a feat that has reportedly not been seen in ALPA’s recent balloting history. The agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions for the new aircraft, passed by a 92 percent majority vote and will be implemented in the event that a change in ownership takes place.

Island Air, which is a privately owned company, announced in January 2013 that it had entered into a preliminary agreement with an undisclosed buyer. Its current owner has also stated publicly that he is evaluating a range of options that could include restructuring existing debt as part of a sale with the as-yet-unidentified company, Chapter 11 bankruptcy, liquidation, and other alternatives.

To date, there has been no official announcement as to whether the proposed transaction will go forward, and if so, who the specific individuals or entity that proposes to acquire and operate Island Air are. The MEC is monitoring the situation closely and updating the pilot group with information as it becomes available.