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Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

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May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the United States—a time to celebrate the vibrant stories, achievements, and enduring impact of these communities. Their cultures, traditions, and innovations have enriched every facet of American life, from art and science to activism and public service. What started in 1978 as a weeklong observance grew to a month-long celebration by 1990 and, since 1992, has been officially celebrated in May. The month was chosen for its significance: May 7 marks the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants in 1843, and May 10 commemorates the completion of the transcontinental railroad in 1869, a landmark made possible by Chinese immigrant labor. This is not just a look back, but an opportunity to recognize and uplift the diverse voices shaping our shared future.

Explore The Rich Heritage Of Asian American And Pacific Islander Contributions

Want to learn more? This is a great time to celebrate and support the Asian American and Pacific Islander communities around you. Learn about trailblazers, honor those who often go unrecognized, and find new ways to show your support. Check out these resources to get started:

Join In The Celebration With An Asian American And Pacific Islander Heritage Month AFA Pin

In 2021, the AFA Executive Board established May as Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and introduced a commemorative pin for AFA Members to wear throughout the Month as a visible symbol of pride and unity. Wearing it is a simple but meaningful way to show support, start conversations, and honor AAPI individuals, both past and present.

Want to know more about the story behind the pin? Reach out to your Local Human Rights & Equity Committee. If you’d like a pin, look for updates from your Local Council or contact your LEC Officers to learn how to get one. Let’s celebrate, learn, and honor the heritage and contributions of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities together.

Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – April 2026

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

On Tuesday, April 21, our pre-merger Alaska AFA Scheduling Committee Chairpersons and Representatives met in person at the Alaska Airlines Global Training Center in Renton, WA to discuss their ongoing work to represent our Flight Attendants and push for improvements in our workplace. Representing you at the meeting were Rebekah Olds (ANC), Rita Tillou (SEA), Melodie Anderes (PDX), Jaqui Bellenie (SFO), Kanako Yamado (LAX), and Kitty Cohen (SAN). MEC Scheduling Committee Vice Chairperson—Pairing Construction Karen Ferrell, MEC Scheduling Committee—PBS Subcommittee Member Adam Clarey, and MEC Scheduling Committee Chairperson Jake Jones were also present.

The Committee met with Managing Director of Inflight Performance & Crew Scheduling Sara Cook, Manager of Inflight Crew Scheduling Goose Hlaingmyint, Director of Crew Planning Trisha Bennett, Manager of Crew Planning Colin Beard, Senior Manager Product Management Rick Mitchell, ITS Technical Product Owner Nathan McFerren, Manager of Crew Pay Debbie Bakke, and other management representatives from Crew Planning, Crew Scheduling, information technology (ITS), payroll, and inflight performance.

The Committee is next scheduled to meet on Tuesday, May 26.

Topics of Discussion

The Committee reviewed several topics during internal AFA-only conversations and when meeting with management. Some items discussed include:

Announcements

  • Upcoming Scheduling Meetings: May 26, June 23, July 21 (in-person), August 25, September 29, October 27, November 24, and December 29.
  • Scheduling Review Board (SRB): The SRB will meet on the first of each month from May through December 2026.
  • Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR): Scheduled out through October 8, 2026. Dates are on the MEC events calendar.
  • JCTE Update: A new update is anticipated in May 2026.
  • Pairing Selection Meetings: Scheduled monthly through December 2026 to discuss pairing selections.
  • Flight Attendant Open Time Monitoring: Active monitoring will occur on the 16th of each month, with specific times set for each base.

MEC Committee Chairperson Report

  • Crew Backlog Review: The status of the crew backlog is still pending. Need to schedule upcoming dates. 
  • Crew Bi-Monthly Review: A review with ALPA is scheduled for May 21, 2026.
  • Known Crew Access Issues: A review meeting is set for May 27, 2026.
  • Rainmaker Crew Pay System: Meetings are scheduled for May, August, and November to address ongoing concerns.
  • Fatigue Review Board (FRB): A series of meetings throughout 2026 will monitor fatigue-related issues.
  • NAVBLUE Monthly Call: Regular calls scheduled through December 2026 will address operational updates.
  • Personal Drop Report Process: Updates are being integrated into JCTE, with specific attention to the Alaska system.
  • Pyramiding Pay Dispute: Discussions continue regarding issues related to over-duty and pay disputes.
  • 4K Dispute: A grievance has been filed by AFA concerning compensation for redeye flights and the night rule.
  • Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs): Ongoing discussions focus on various operational issues and self-help arrangements.

Local Committee Chairperson Reports

  • PDX: Significant feedback regarding leaves with an emphasis on awarding low bids. Expressed concerns over what appears to be micromanagement in Block2Block (B2B) chat.
  • SAN: An issue involving a pay premium for a reassigned Flight Attendant was highlighted, and Wi-Fi code errors were noted but did not require follow-up. If you experience errors with deadhead Wi-Fi codes, please contact Crew Scheduling. 
  • ANC: Concerns about disappearing Flight Attendant schedules and pay errors were raised. This is a known issue, and Flight Attendants should contact Crew Scheduling if this occurs.
  • LAX: Issues with four-day trips in Burbank and pay analyst errors were reported.
  • SFO: Discussions centered on reassignment and compensation issues.
  • SEA: Concerns about PVR cancellations and the need for improved communication were emphasized, along with reassignments and changing flying patterns.

PBS Subcommittee Updates

  • Bidding Process: Increased bidding volume was noted in May, with challenges with some runs during SEA awards.
  • Bid Awards and Protests: Workarounds for website issues were implemented, allowing bid protest submissions via email.
  • Meetings: Various meetings were conducted, focusing on new initiatives and error messaging; the PBS system is now branded as “Skywise.”
  • Other Updates: Ongoing testing for PBS systems is in progress, with notable issues addressed.

Pairing Construction

  • Staffing Policy Changes: Effective for June 2026, management is reviewing the possibility of offering staffing leave for that month. It is the Committee’s recommendation that management not offer leaves at this time to provide relief to Flight Attendants. 
  • June Pairing Selection: Agreement has been reached on utilizing the more cost-effective solution over other options for June. This includes considerations for hotel and transportation expenses, allowing for better financial management.
  • Review of Trip Length and Distribution: There is ongoing scrutiny of the length of flying and trip distribution. The focus is on optimizing routes to reduce costs, particularly during the summer months when demand is higher.
  • Processing 4 Position Pairings: The Committee is exploring the feasibility of processing 4-position pairings rather than the traditional 1- and 3-position pairings. This adjustment aims to enhance flexibility and improve crew efficiency.
  • Cost-Effectiveness Analysis: A detailed analysis of the cost implications of different pairing structures is underway. The goal is to establish a more efficient pairing system that balances crew needs with operational demands.
  • Historical Data Review: Historical data indicates a significant decrease in the viability of four-day trips. The Committee is analyzing how to increase the value of these trips to provide more flexibility for crew members.

Crew Pay and Planning Updates

  • Crew Pay: An increase in inquiry counts in April was observed, along with a review of payroll trend data.
  • Crew Planning: Upcoming June block hours total 347k, with significant discussions on trip distribution and staffing leaves. Line averages will remain around 80 TFP, while reserve coverage should be 20% system wide. 
  • IROPS Mitigation: Various construction delays and adjustments to layover/connection times were discussed. The layover/connection restraints affect our pairings and what is available to bid. 

Crew Scheduling Update

  • Sick Leave Trends: A decrease in sick leave usage was observed, with ongoing monitoring.
  • Reserve Utilization: High utilization rates across all bases were highlighted. Seattle has the highest utilization rates. 
  • Fatigue Reports: Reports are trending downward, underscoring the importance of successful fatigue management strategies. If Flight Attendants are fatigued, they should file detailed reports on the causes of the fatigue so the review board can make the most effective decisions and recommendations. 
  • Feedback Mechanisms: Improved communication and issue reporting processes were discussed to enhance operational efficiency.

What The Committee Is Working On

  1. Resolving Pyramiding Pay Disputes: Discussions are ongoing through the Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) process to clarify payment rules for over-duty pay and day-off violations. Our Grievance Committee is filing grievances regarding several concerns with pyramid pay. These discussions are still ongoing with Labor Relations management. 
  2. Vacation Bidding: Representatives from the Committee met with management to discuss the new vendor, AI Crew Solutions. It was determined that when a Flight Attendant either doesn’t hold a bid or forgets to bid, they will be allowed to bid in the 2nd round of vacation. The current process assigns slot 1 and slot 2.  We will provide educational material and information when bidding begins next year on the new platforms. Our next meeting is scheduled for March 12, 2026. We have additional meetings to discuss implementation and buddy bidding. We are currently testing and reviewing the User Acceptance Testing (UAT) environment. 
  3. Flow Charts: These are posted on the AFA website to help guide you through contractual understanding and irregular ops here: 2025-2028 AFA Alaska CBA Reference Documents 01.26.2026
  4. Block2Block (B2B) Contactability: Implemented on February 1, 2026. Please familiarize yourself with the contractual language and bulletin bundle. Every Flight Attendant must check B2B at the end of every duty period (not trip) and make positive contact if a message is sent prior to block-in of the last flight of the duty period per §8.Q.2.e.
  5. Chime (Microsoft Teams): Implemented on February 9, 2026. This will allow Flight Attendants to contact Crew Scheduling for additional resources. Please refer to the letter of agreement and bulletin bundle.

We Want to Hear From You!

Whether you have feedback for the Committee, concerns to share, or items you’d like brought up with management – don’t hesitate to let us know. Your Local Scheduling Committee is here to be your voice to management. You can easily open a support ticket on the AFA Alaska Online Support Center or directly contact us using the information provided on the Scheduling Committee page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website.

Hotel Committee Meeting Recap – April 2026

On Monday, April 13, our AFA Local Hotel Committee Chairpersons met virtually to receive an update about current layover hotels and transportation providers and discuss concerns with management. Representing you at the meeting were Dori Marron (ANC), Jarod McNeill (SEA pmAS), Kelly Hepworth (PDX), Barry Spitzer (SFO), Brian Sherill (LAX pmAS), and Kanani Vallot (SAN), with MEC Hotel Committee Chairperson James Bozanich facilitating the meeting.

The Committee met with Director of Crew Planning Trisha Bennett, Manager of Crew Hotel and Administration Diane Szubert, and Crew Hotels Support Specialist LaFay Williams.

Our next monthly meeting with management is scheduled for Monday, May 11.

Topics of Discussion

  • Final Hotel Decisions: Management has finalized hotel decisions for PHL, MKE, IAD, and PSP. This information will be communicated in April’s Hotel Informational Bulletin, as we cannot publicly disclose the names of our crew hotels.
  • API Challenges: We spend most of our meeting addressing challenges with our hotel vendor, API. Some of the items are Hotel Committee facing (site visit schedules, hotel bids (RFPs) with incorrect information, sourcing timelines, etc.), and other issues are Flight Attendant facing (missing newly contracted hotels in MyCrewCare, discrepancies with system van times, etc.). Crew Hotels took detailed notes during our meetings and will follow up with API for resolution.
  • Ground Transportation GPS Tracking: We have communicated before that a number of our ground transportation providers have GPS-enabled vans. The MyCrewCare app will eventually have this feature integrated. In the meantime, we have asked for the specific standalone apps or websites where crews can currently get this information. Our goal is to have this information posted with April’s Informational Bulletin.  

Overheard on the Jetbridge

We’re aware of a rumor circulating on social media suggesting that we’re planning to leave one of our key KOA properties. We want to confirm that this isn’t true. In fact, our Hotel Committee has requested the renewal of the contract with this property and has inquired about the possibility of securing higher food discounts for Flight Attendants as part of the renewal negotiations.

We’re unsure of the rumor’s exact origin, though it may have stemmed from a comment made by an individual from another workgroup. Both AFA and ALPA maintain Hotel Committees dedicated to advocating for their Members’ needs. While the committees collaborate closely, preferences for specific properties can occasionally differ between the two groups. Our Hotel Committee always puts Flight Attendants first and will keep pushing for the hotels that work best for us.

Important Reminders

  • Conducting a Site Visit ≠ Leaving a Property: Doing a site visit doesn’t mean we’re planning to leave a property. As we mention each month, conducting a site visit in a market isn’t a sign that we’re getting ready to leave an existing hotel.
  • Positive Feedback Matters: We’ve recently heard a lot of good things about this property. Please keep sharing your compliments about hotels you like via CrewCare—your feedback helps both the Hotel Committee and the hotel know they’re doing a great job.
  • Your Representatives are Available: Your Local Hotel Committee is always here to answer your questions. If you hear rumors, it’s best to skip the gossip and ask us directly.

What The Committee Is Working On

1. Conducting Hotel Site Visits: The Hotel Committee conducts site visits on hotels under consideration by management to ensure that the selected options provide the safest and most comfortable layover experience for Flight Attendants. Market reviews are triggered by factors such as contract expirations, crew complaints, and cost-saving opportunities.  

Pre-Merger Alaska: We have been provided the site visit schedule for 2026, and it’s quite extensive. Additional site visits may be added due to the conditions listed above. The scheduled site visits through June 2027 are:

  • April: DFW, EWR, JFK
  • May: PHX, ATL
  • June: OGG, RNO, BOS
  • July: BWI

Pre-Merger Hawaiian: The scheduled site visits through June 2026 are:

  • April: SYD, LAX
  • June: JFK

2. Hotel Gainshare Update (pmAS): The Gainshare program negotiations are currently stalled because management is concerned about the federal tax implications. AFA International was consulted and provided a legal counterargument. We’re waiting for AFA International to coordinate with Alaska Airlines Labor Relations management on this. Our goal is to reach a consensus and finalize the program’s negotiations. We recognize that many of our Members are interested in this program, and we’re doing everything we can to make it a reality.  

We Want to Hear From You!

Our Hotel Committee relies on your feedback, whether positive or negative. Please report via CrewCare (pmAS) or the FA Crew Accommodations Feedback form (pmHA), which ensures your experience with a layover hotel or ground transportation is addressed. These are the only official way to report issues, as the Committee does not monitor social media channels.

Each CrewCare and feedback form submission is forwarded to our AFA Hotel Committee, Crew Hotels (Alaska/Hawaiian management), API, and the hotel or ground transportation provider. This ensures quick action can be taken to correct or fix the issue for the next crew member. It also allows us to monitor hotel and transportation trends. Pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants can quickly file a CrewCare report using the web app on your IMD home screen or by clicking here.

Do you have any other feedback you would like to share with the Committee or any specific items you want us to bring up with management? Please let us know! Your Local Hotel Committee is here to represent you and ensure management hears your voice. You can find our contact information on the Hotel Committee page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website.

Navigating Acute & Delayed Stress As A Flight Attendant

Stress is an inherent aspect of the Flight Attendant profession, often stemming from the demanding nature of responsibilities and the unpredictable nature of air travel. It’s essential for Flight Attendants not only to understand the different types of stress they may encounter but also to recognize the warning signs of acute and delayed stress for effective stress management.

Acute Stress: Turbulence in the Mind

Acute stress is like sudden turbulence during a flight—an unexpected and intense event that can disrupt the normal flow of operations. Flight Attendants may experience acute stress during emergency situations, unruly passenger incidents, or unexpected flight delays. This type of stress triggers the body’s fight-or-flight response, leading to physiological changes such as a rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, and gastrointestinal discomfort.

Physical Symptoms of Acute Stress:

  • Heightened heart rate
  • Nausea or stomach cramps
  • Rapid breathing

Cognitive Impact of Acute Stress:

  • Impaired decision-making
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Emotional reactivity

Delayed Stress: The Quiet Aftermath

Delayed stress, much like a delayed flight, doesn’t manifest immediately but can have lasting effects. Flight Attendants may experience delayed stress after particularly challenging flights, traumatic incidents, or extended periods of high stress. This type of stress can be confusing as it emerges after the initial event has passed, potentially catching individuals off guard. Symptoms of delayed stress include:

  • Persistent feelings of anxiety or unease
  • Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks related to the stressful event
  • Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

Proactive Stress Management Strategies

Flight Attendants can adopt various strategies to manage stress effectively and maintain their well-being amidst the challenges of their profession.

Self-Care Practices:

  • Regular exercise and physical activity
  • Adequate rest and sleep
  • Mindfulness or relaxation techniques

Seek Support:

  • Utilize your AFA EAP
  • Connect with peer support groups or mental health resources

Set Boundaries

  • Establishing work-life balance
  • Learn to say no to additional responsibilities when feeling overwhelmed

Remember, our AFA Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee is here to support you. Reach out for confidential assistance, resources, and guidance tailored to your needs at (949) 470-0493 or (800) 424-2406.

Protect Yourself From Potential Discipline on Social Media

Our Grievance Committee would like to provide background on social media, protected classes, and discipline.

Federal protected classes include race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or transgender status), national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. 

Alaska’s People Policy says:

Personal Conduct
22. Threatening, intimidating, or discourteous behavior, including abusive, profane, or obscene language, acts, or gestures, to guests or employees at any time will not be tolerated.
23. Any form of harassment or discrimination based on a Protected Characteristic is prohibited.

Flight Attendants have also faced discipline under the Social Media section of the People Policy.

Alaska Airlines management has disciplined for posts made in Flight Attendant-run social media groups such as Galley Tea, Patriots with Wings, and others, as well as Flight Attendants’ personal pages, even with very little to show that the poster was a Flight Attendant employed by the company.  In fact, an arbitrator upheld discipline, although there was very little evidence on the Flight Attendant’s personal page to identify them as a company employee.  

We know the world feels unsettled right now, and even within our group, people have strong and different opinions. Still, management continues to issue discipline when company policies are broken, no matter what is happening in the news. Depending on the nature and severity of an incident, outcomes may range from a warning to suspension, or even termination. It’s important to be aware that violations of company policy, whether on social media or in other contexts, can result in a wide range of disciplinary actions.

Most Flight Attendants who were disciplined for social media posts were reported by co-workers. Usually, the person reporting did not want anyone fired—they just wanted the post taken down or prevented from happening again. Instead of going straight to management, you can contact AFA Professional Standards for help. You can find their contact information on the EAP/Professional Standards Committee page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website. The Committee can help facilitate resolution between Flight Attendants without management involvement. Sometimes, taking some breathing room and understanding can help the situation.  

We may not always agree, but everyone wants a respectful and positive workplace. Both AFA and Alaska have rules about treating others with respect at work and online. Please think carefully before posting or commenting on social media and be considerate in your interactions with other Flight Attendants and passengers. If you avoid posting or commenting on things that could break company policy, you can avoid problems.

If you have questions, please contact your Local Grievance Committee or LEC Officers.

Joint Contract Negotiations Session 14 – April 2026

The JNC continued its thorough review of both the Alaska and Hawaiian vacation systems, engaging in productive discussions with key company stakeholders. A collaborative approach was proposed to address the complex provisions, ensuring that all parties’ needs are considered. Looking ahead, the committee is preparing to gather feedback through a Crew Meal Survey and anticipates further sessions with management from June 2 to June 4.

Celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month

May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the United States—a time to celebrate the vibrant stories, achievements, and enduring impact of these communities. Their cultures, traditions, and innovations have enriched every facet of American life, from art and science to activism and public service. What started in 1978 as a weeklong observance […]

Join The Picket Line: Support Horizon Flight Attendants on Tuesday, April 28

Since November 2023, Horizon Air Flight Attendants have been in negotiations, fighting tirelessly to secure a new contract that recognizes their work. Even after applying for mediation in January 2025, management continues to offer proposals that ignore the essential contributions Horizon Flight Attendants make to the success of Horizon Air and Alaska Air Group.  On […]

Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – April 2026

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants On Tuesday, April 21, our pre-merger Alaska AFA Scheduling Committee Chairpersons and Representatives met in person at the Alaska Airlines Global Training Center in Renton, WA to discuss their ongoing work to represent our Flight Attendants and push for improvements in our workplace. Representing you at the […]

Hotel Committee Meeting Recap – April 2026

On Monday, April 13, our AFA Local Hotel Committee Chairpersons met virtually to receive an update about current layover hotels and transportation providers and discuss concerns with management. Representing you at the meeting were Dori Marron (ANC), Jarod McNeill (SEA pmAS), Kelly Hepworth (PDX), Barry Spitzer (SFO), Brian Sherill (LAX pmAS), and Kanani Vallot (SAN), […]

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