<%@LANGUAGE="VBSCRIPT" CODEPAGE="1252"%> Mr. John Spanjers
President and Chief Executive Officer
Mesaba Airlines
1000 Blue Gentian Road, Suite 200
Eagan, MN 55121

Mr. Spanjers:

Recently, my office had the opportunity to meet with representatives of the Association of Flight Attendants - CWA and the Mesaba flight attendants. The flight attendants have brought to my attention the concessions being asked of them in this bankruptcy proceeding. It is my fervent expectation you will negotiate in good faith with the flight attendants to reach a consensual agreement which is equitable and amenable to both sides.

Bankruptcy proceedings entail the difficult choices which must necessarily be made for Mesaba to emerge and remain strong and financially successful. On their part, the flight attendants rightly recognize sacrifices must be made in order to keep the airline operational. Yet many of the present demands potentially imposed upon them by the bankruptcy proceedings will result in many long-serving and dedicated employees being compelled to try and find work elsewhere; consequently, I am concerned such demands would result in many of the flight attendants' income dropping below the poverty level; abandoning their health care coverage; or forcing them onto the taut strands of our strained social safety net.

Mesaba provides an essential service for many communities throughout the country, especially in my home state of Michigan, where Mesaba flight attendants enjoy their jobs of serving the public. Again, this is why, throughout these bankruptcy proceedings, the flight attendants and Mesaba will negotiate in good faith; minimize the impact of any concessions upon employees; and, thus, reach an equitable agreement which will keep this fine airline serving Americans.

Thank you for your time. Should you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Thaddeus G. McCotter
Member of Congress