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American Airlines layoffs taking toll on families

The American Airlines entrance on North Mingo Road
KWGS News File Photo
The American Airlines entrance on North Mingo Road

TULSA, Okla. (AP) — Since layoff notices went out to nearly 3,000 employees at American Airlines' maintenance center in Tulsa, families of workers have been working to cope with an uncertain future.

The airline last month informed workers that their jobs could disappear in the next few months. American is struggling to cut costs and get out of New York federal bankruptcy Court.

Since the original notice, the airline has clarified that only about 150 workers will ultimately get the axe.

John Bell, who helps maintain the physical plant in Tulsa, says the mood was gloomy after the notice went out but has lightened since the airline told workers that fewer than expected would lose their jobs.

Union officials caution that workers shouldn't relax because jobs are threatened by overseas maintenance operations.