Union Sues Northwest Airlines

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - A union representing 9,500 Northwest Airlines workers has filed suit against the carrier, accusing it of misusing criminal background checks following the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

In the federal court lawsuit filed Tuesday, the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association claims Northwest has gotten more information on employees than federal law allows and has used the information to discipline them.

Northwest wouldn't comment directly on the lawsuit.

The Federal Aviation Administration required background checks after Sept. 11 on workers with unescorted access to secured areas.

Under federal law, individuals are deemed to have a "disqualifying criminal offense" if they have been convicted of any of 28 criminal offenses within the past 10 years, including theft, dishonesty or illegal possession of a controlled substance, the union said.

Northwest, however, has been using information beyond the 28-offense, 10-year scope for disciplinary purposes, the union claims. The union also accused Northwest of conducting checks on employees who do not need unescorted access to secure areas.

The union is seeking a permanent injunction against such practices.

"This is a complete violation of the rights of these employees who may now have their careers ruined for a minor offense that may have occurred over a decade ago," said union attorney Lee Seham.

Northwest spokeswoman Mary Beth Schubert said the airline "has been implementing the most recent federal laws regarding employee fingerprint and background checks in compliance with the federal directives.

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On the Net:

Northwest: http://www.nwa.com

Aircraft Mechanics: www.amfanatl.org