Mechanics at Chicago-based United Airlines may soon vote to join the The Teamsters union. After a two-year organizing drive at the airline, the Teamsters filed a petition for a new representation election with the National Mediation Board on Monday. The 10,000 mechanics at United are currently members of the Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA).

A vote to switch unions among the mechanics comes at a turbulent [Ed. note: Hay-oh!] time for United, as the legacy carrier has been the subject of merger rumors. United is also expected to make a decision about selling off its Mileage Plus program and maintenance business early next year. Although United emerged from bankruptcy in 2006, thousands of mechanics remain on furlough, pay has been cut, and mechanic work has been outsourced, all part of contract concessions negotiated by the AFMA. The Teamsters hope to have an election within the next six weeks, and have vowed to fight any sell off of the maintenance business.

Image via Geoff Ross