Iam in the western region. My utility rate is the starting $16.10 and the starting air rate is $12.50. The only time that Iam getting paid the utility rate is when Iam on a route or running a ground misload. I have been working mainly to go to the airport and shuttle and have been getting paid the air rate. The contract says that air exception is only for delivery of air pkgs so shouldnt I be making my utility wage? And if I do fall under sec.1(a) shouldnt I be making top wage when running a route as an air driver would (1(a)(7) instead of my utility rate?
I don't have the answer. Again, ask the union.
My guess; If you are servicing packages that the drivers cannot make time commitment on, that is exception air and article 40. If you are shuttling air service packages from an airport, that is air, article 40 (air shuttle work). If you are moving any grounds, that is ground and utility class.
When you complete the wage progression(s), you will reach top rate. I know that no FT employee is supposed to complete two progressions. Not sure about PT. When you complete the 2 year wage progression, you will get top air rate (article 40). Same with utility ( which should be in your local supplement).
I am a combo 22.3 preload/air, btw.