Is mediation considered mandatory under the Railway Labor Act (RLA)?

Mediation is indeed considered a mandatory process under the Railway Labor Act (RLA). The primary purpose of the RLA is to avoid disruptions in interstate commerce that could arise from labor disputes within the railway and airline industries. To facilitate this, the RLA mandates mediation as an initial step in the dispute resolution process before any strikes or disruptions can occur.

When parties find themselves at an impasse during negotiations, the RLA requires them to seek the assistance of the National Mediation Board (NMB), which provides mediation services to help resolve the disputes. This requirement is crucial as it aims to encourage dialogue and collaboration between employers and employees, ultimately maintaining stability in transportation services.

Understanding the mandatory nature of mediation under the RLA is essential for anyone involved in aviation labor relations, as it highlights the structured approach the law takes in mitigating conflicts.