Planes grounded as strike continues

June 10, 2009 12:18 pm

— ENID, Okla. (AP) — Air Force training planes remain grounded at Vance Air Force Base as civilian employees continue their strike at the base in Enid.

Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Local 898 walked out early Monday after failing to reach an agreement before the union's three-year contract expired.

Union members voted overwhelmingly Friday to reject the latest contract offer from CSC Applied Technologies LLC and three subcontractors.

Union member John Crowdis says the biggest issues involve seniority, drug testing, personal time approval and health insurance.

CSC spokeswoman Caroline Longanecker says in a written statement the company's offer supports the Air Force's mission and provides for a pay increase.

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Information from: Enid News & Eagle, http://www.enidnews.com