Grievance Filling Process
The following process outlines the correct steps for filing a non-disciplinary grievance under the TAPA Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). This guide ensures consistency, accuracy, and proper documentation throughout the grievance process.
1. Verify Eligibility
Before filing, confirm that:
- The issue is non-disciplinary and covered under the CBA.
- If the matter involves safety, verify that it falls within the CBA or appropriate OSHA standards.
- Consider whether an ASAP report is also appropriate for safety-related events (this does not replace grievance right).
2. Conduct the 5 Ws Investigation
Collect the essential facts. Clearly document:
- Who was involved (crew, dispatch, MX, management)
- What occurred
- When it happened (flight number, duty period, Zulu/local times)
- Where the event occurred (base, outstation, route segment)
- Why it constitutes a contract violation or operational concern
3. Review the CBA
Identify:
- The specific article(s) or section(s) that apply
- The exact contract language that was violated
- Any supporting interpretations previously discussed by the TAPA Board or appropriate Committees
4. Collect Supporting Evidence
Gather all materials relevant to the issue, such as:
- Company emails or message threads
- Schedules, bid packets, trip pairings
- ACARS or dispatch messages
- Safety logs or fatigue reports
- Statements from flight crew or witnesses
- Screenshots (time-stamped), rosters, or system logs
- Any documentation supporting the contract violation
5. Confirm Time Limits
The CBA includes specific deadlines—commonly:
- 15 days from the date you became aware of the issue to file at Step 1
- Late filings may be denied, so verify deadlines before submitting.
6. Complete the TAPA Non-Disciplinary Grievance Form
Ensure that the form:
- Is completed clearly and accurately
- Describes the incident and cites the violated article(s)
- Includes the requested remedy
- Has all supporting evidence attached
If unsure, contact the TAPA Grievance Committee for guidance at: tapagrievance@21air.us.
7. Submit the Grievance
Send the completed grievance form and attachments to:
- TAPA Grievance Committee: tapagrievance@21air.us
- Company representative, as outlined in the CBA
Make sure you:
- Retain your own copy
- Obtain a timestamp, acknowledgment, or receipt confirming submission
8. Prepare for the Grievance Meeting
Prior to meeting with management:
- Brief the TAPA representative on the facts
- Review the relevant CBA articles together
- Organize evidence clearly (chronological order recommended)
- Determine what remedy you seek and how it aligns with the CBA
Your TAPA rep will lead the meeting, but pilot preparation strengthens the case.
9. Follow-Up Steps
- Track the timeline for the company’s Step 2 written response
- Review the response with your TAPA representative
If unresolved, TAPA may advance the case to:
- Mediation
- Arbitration
- Other contractual options, depending on the issue
TAPA will advise on escalation based on contract language and precedent.
10. Maintain Documentation
For your recordkeeping:
- Keep copies of all grievance forms
- Retain emails, responses, and timelines
- Save meeting notes and any updated evidence
- Track all deadline dates
This ensures accuracy and supports future related cases.