Flight attendants across the United States, represented by three major labor unions, have united for a series of protests at over 30 airports nationwide, including major hubs and London Heathrow. The demonstrations, organized by members of the Transport Workers Union of America (TWU), the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA), and the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA), highlight ongoing labor disputes and contract negotiations affecting approximately 100,000 flight attendants from airlines such as Southwest, Alaska, United, American, Allegiant, Frontier, and various regional carriers.
These unions have emphasized that many flight attendants are working under contracts that have expired, demanding better conditions and terms. The protests serve as a collective stand to improve the working environment for flight attendants and the aviation industry at large. Notably, Southwest Airlines flight attendants have rejected proposed labor contracts twice, leading to a vote authorizing a strike last month. Similarly, Alaska Airlines flight attendants have shown overwhelming support for strike action, with 99.5% voting in favor.
Under the Railway Labor Act, which governs labor actions in the airline industry, a strike authorization does not immediately lead to a strike. Several procedural steps must be completed before any potential walkout. However, such authorizations significantly influence negotiations and mediation sessions conducted by the National Mediation Board (NMB).
Alaska Airlines remains hopeful for a resolution, citing recent successful labor agreements and ongoing negotiations with flight attendants. American Airlines flight attendants, represented by APFA, have also escalated their efforts by submitting a second request to the NMB for permission to strike, following a rejected request last November.
These protests and negotiations underscore the flight attendants' determination to secure better working conditions and contracts, signaling a critical moment in labor relations within the U.S. airline industry.
