AFA Alaska News Now

Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – January 2025

February 3, 2025 09:00

Scheduling Committee

On January 28, our AFA Scheduling Committee Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing work representing Flight Attendants’ interests in lineholder scheduling.
The Committee met with management to receive updates and discuss issues and problems Flight Attendants face with scheduling, pairings, and bidding.
Your Local Scheduling Committee is available to assist with any lineholder scheduling-related issues. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help!

On Tuesday, January 28, our AFA Scheduling Committee Chairpersons/Representatives met to discuss their ongoing work to represent our Flight Attendants and push for improvements in our workplace. Representing you at the meeting were Heather Reier (ANC), Rita Tillou (SEA), Melodie Anderes (PDX), Jaqui Bellenie (SFO), Kanako Yamado (LAX), and Kitty Cohen (SAN). Also present were MEC Scheduling Committee Chairperson Jake Jones, MEC Scheduling Committee Vice Chairperson—Pairing Construction Karen Ferrell, and MEC Scheduling Committee Vice Chairperson—PBS Virginia Fritz.

The committee met with Director of Crew Planning Trisha Bennett, Manager of Crew Planning Jeffery Hunt, Senior Manager of Product Management Rick Mitchell, Managing Director Inflight Operations and Crew Scheduling Sara Cook, Inflight Crew Scheduling Supervisor Matthew Trujillo, Manager of Crew Pay Debbie Bakke, Crew Hotels and Admin manager Nichole Turner, Crew Hotel Support Specialist LaFay Williams and other management representatives from Crew Planning and Crew Scheduling.

The Committee is next scheduled to meet on Tuesday, February 25, 2025.

Topics of Discussion

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

Ongoing issues with sit pay discrepancies highlighted, with specific attention to individual Flight Attendants not receiving their due compensation.
Importance of timely updates from management regarding pay issues emphasized to ensure transparency and build trust among crew members.
Request for a comprehensive report detailing flight operations, including any changes in schedules and how they affect pay structures.
Review of pairing structures indicated frequent occurrences of low TFP options, raising concerns about the sustainability of current scheduling practices.
Concerns were raised about the accessibility of paychecks and the need for a troubleshooting protocol for Flight Attendants experiencing issues.
Highlighted the need for a more structured approach to managing Open Time trips, focusing on balancing crew preferences with operational requirements.
Clarification was sought on the procedures for reporting and handling known delays, with an emphasis on ensuring timely communication to all affected crew members.
Discussions included strategies for improving the speed and efficiency of bid processing, particularly concerning reserve coverage and historical data utilization.
The significance of timely communication regarding bid protests was noted, with emphasis on ensuring that all crew members understand the criteria for submitting protests.
Updates on recent meetings with management underscored the importance of collaboration across departments to address crew concerns and enhance operational efficiency.
Review of future releases and updates highlighted the importance of keeping crew members informed about upcoming changes and how they will impact day-to-day operations.
Engagement with the committee regarding upcoming class schedules and training opportunities was discussed, with a focus on ensuring new hires are adequately prepared.
A high volume of inquiries regarding activity claim forms prompted discussions on the need for better categorization and guidance for Flight Attendants filling out claims.
Emphasis placed on the importance of monitoring block hours and reserve staffing ratios to maintain operational efficiency and crew satisfaction.
Concerns about the impact of ongoing construction in SAN and operational changes on flight schedules were raised, with a call for proactive measures to mitigate disruptions.
Acknowledgment of the decrease in sick leave rates and ongoing efforts to manage crew wellness and fatigue through improved scheduling practices.
Addressed transportation issues related to Crew Access and timeliness, stressing the need for better coordination with ground services to enhance crew experience.

What The Committee Is Working On

NAVBLUE. The PBS Subcommittee is seeking feedback on how they can improve their assistance to flight crews regarding bid awards and understanding results. They provided both in-person and virtual meetings for this purpose. The PBS Subcommittee is working with management on PBS base sit budgets. Management has the committee keep track of how money is being spent to assist flight crews with their bidding. We appreciate your participation in virtual and in person base sits.
Pairings Survey. There is a discussion of reviewing bidding data from NAVBLUE to see what kind of pairings Flight Attendants are interested in flying instead of sending out a survey. We will continue to review options.
Chime Communications. To reduce phone call volumes, Flight Attendants may soon be able to chat with Crew Scheduling via app/Microsoft Teams. The chat will be for Flight Attendant-initiated contact only. The function is currently in the early stages of development and still needs to be discussed with Labor Relations management and our MEC. Testing and implementation are continuing over the next few weeks. We are working on a letter of agreement for implementation, which is still pending review.
Crew Scheduling. A monthly review of PowerPoint presentations covered various aspects such as reserve utilization, detailed breakdowns, sick leave (week by week and year over year), premium, personal drops, and other relevant agenda items.
Crew Planning. Like Crew Scheduling, there was a monthly review of PowerPoint presentations that covered subsequent month staffing, trip length distribution, Flight Attendant block hours, special initiatives (e.g., IROPs), commutability, and other relevant agenda items. Statistics around teaming continue to be reviewed. Crew Planning continues to maximize pairing construction and optimizing teaming strategies to minimize costs and ensure that crews (Flight Attendants) can stay together for multiple segments.
ITS. Representatives from ITS joined the scheduling meeting to provide updates on NAVBLUE, Crew Access, internal systems, and Block2Block. These updates include performance reviews, data analysis, and information about future releases.

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 website.

Celebrating Black History Month

February 1, 2025 13:00

Human Rights Committee

February 1 is the beginning of Black History Month in the United States. This tradition was initiated by a Harvard-trained historian, Carter G. Woodson, in 1925. He introduced a week-long event to raise awareness about the contributions made by Black individuals.
Discover resources to learn more about Black History Month, celebrate the achievements of Black Americans, and find events to participate in by using the links below.
Wear your Black History Month AFA Pin this month and join the celebration. Contact your Local Council if you need a pin.

February 1 marks the first day of Black History Month in the United States. This tradition has a rich legacy that dates back to 1925 when Harvard trained-historian Carter G. Woodson introduced “Negro History Week” to bring attention to the achievements and contributions of Black individuals. It was expanded to its current form in 1976 by President Gerald R. Ford when it became Black History Month. Today, we celebrate the incredible achievements and contributions of Black Americans and honor their legacy and profound impact on our society and the world.

Learn More About Black History

You can learn more about the accomplishments of Black Americans through some of the dedicated websites and resources below.

Celebrate with a Black History Month AFA Pin

In 2019, the AFA Executive Board unanimously passed a resolution recognizing February as Black History Month. The resolution established a unique commemorative pin for AFA Members to wear throughout February.

For more information about the pin, contact your Local Human Rights Committee. If you need a pin, check with your Local Council or contact your LEC Officers to determine availability.

Never Forget: Honoring Alaska Airlines Flight 261—January 31, 2000

January 31, 2025 16:22

Master Executive Council (MEC)

On this day, we pause to remember and honor the 25th anniversary of the tragic loss of Alaska Airlines Flight 261, which occurred on January 31, 2000. This heartbreaking event claimed the lives of all 88 passengers and crew on board, leaving an enduring impact on all of us.

As we reflect on this tragic day, we acknowledge the grief that continues to resonate in our hearts. We stand in solidarity with the families who lost loved ones, remembering the joy and light they brought into this world. Each life lost was a story, a connection, and a cherished presence that left an indelible mark on all who knew them.

Today, let us take time to reflect on the lives lost and the loved ones they left behind. We will always remember and honor the memory of Flight Attendants Kristin Mills, Craig Pulanco, and Allison Shanks; Captain Ted Thompson; First Officer William Tansky; Sheri Christensen, Rachel Janosik, Ileana Ost, Sarah Pearson, Anjesh Prasad, James Ryan, and Stacy Schuyler. We will forever hold the memories of those aboard Flight 261 close in our hearts.

Alaska-Hawaiian Merged MEC Officer Election Results

January 29, 2025 17:30

https://www.afacwa.org/alaskahawaiian

Resources For Those Affected By The Southern California Wildfires

January 17, 2025 09:00

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee

The devastating wildfires that have swept through Los Angeles County have had a profound impact on local communities, including our own Flight Attendant community.
Below is a list of resources and offers compiled to aid those displaced or affected by ongoing fires.
AFA EAP is also available at any time for confidential support by calling (949) 470-0493 or visiting afaalaska.org/eap for more ways to connect.

More than 2,000 homes, businesses and other buildings have been destroyed or damaged in wildfires ravaging communities across Los Angeles County, displacing at least 150,000 people, including restaurant workers and ROC United members, who have had to evacuate or have lost their homes.

The Restaurant Opportunities Center (ROC) of Los Angeles, along with restaurant communities, local businesses, community groups and individuals, are coming together to provide free resources, supplies and services. ROC LA is also handing out free N95 respirator masks to protect workers from harmful smoke.

Here’s a list of offerings to support those displaced or affected by ongoing fires.

Free Meals

Calamigos Ranch, in Malibu, is offering free breakfast burritos every day from 8 AM to 5 PM at the Calamigos Beach Club restaurant.

Highland Park Brewery is offering free combo specials for first responders, evacuees or anyone affected by the fires. The specials include the HPB Burger, vegan chipotle burger, fried chicken sandwich, hot dog and grilled chicken club.

Magic Castle Hollywood is distributing deli sandwiches, chips and cookies on Tuesday to individuals and families facing challenges brought on by the fires.

McDonald’s Southern California locations are offering a free Happy Meal online and through its app, no purchase necessary.

Jewish Family Service LA’s SOVA Community Food and Resource Program is open to anyone needing access to fresh groceries, personal care items and additional resources for individuals and families. Details available online or by calling (323) 937-5843.

U.S. Department of Agriculture approved a temporary waiver that will allow participants in the USDA’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program/CalFresh in Kern, Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Ventura counties to buy hot foods using their benefits through Feb. 8. CalFresh recipients can contact the Los Angeles Department of Public Social Services at (866) 613-3777, Monday through Friday from 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM, to request replacement benefits.

Giving Kitchen is helping food service workers in crisis. The best way to get assistance from Giving Kitchen is to complete this “ask for help” form to determine eligibility for support.

Financial Resources

Federal Emergency Management Agency announced federal sister assistance is available to the state of California to supplement recovery efforts. Individuals and business owners who sustained losses in the designated areas can begin applying for assistance by registering online, calling 1 (800) 621-3362 or by using the FEMA app.

Inclusive Action has launched a new emergency fund to help outdoor workers, including street vendors, landscapers and recyclers, affected by the fires. Affected workers can apply for one-time cash assistance of $500 on a first-come, first-served basis, as funding allows. The application can be found online in English and in Spanish. For more information call (213) 435-1151 or email info@inclusiveaction.org.

California Restaurant Foundation’s Restaurant Care will open applications for its Los Angeles Fires 2025 Relief Grants starting Tuesday. The grants are for food and beverage workers who have lost their homes and/or workplaces. Grants will range between $350 and $1,500. Grants will be awarded based on need and available funding. For more information, visit the foundation’s website.

RentSpree is offering to waive or refund application fees for individuals who need to rent property as a result of displacement and/or property damage caused by the fires. For information, email support@rentspree.com after submitting an application through RentSpree. Offer valid through April 8. Only fees paid directly to RentSpree are eligible for reimbursement.

Emergency Shelter (No ID requirement)

Emergency public shelters must be accessible. No one running an evacuation shelter can ask you for your ID. There are other shelters run by non-profits organizations such as the Red Cross which do not ask for any identifying information regarding immigration status. Please see the MALAN Fire & Wind Storm Resources: Available Resources

Unemployment Insurance

Governor Newsom issued an executive order waiving the one-week waiting period for workers who qualify for regular unemployment benefits and are affected by the Los Angeles County fires, including the Palisades, Eaton, Hurst, Woodley, and Lidia fires. In addition, employers may request up to a 60-day extension to file their state payroll reports or deposit payroll taxes

Free Clothing

Brooklyn Projects, a skateboard and clothing shop in the Fairfax district is providing free clothing, shoes and socks for victims who left their homes without a change of clothes. 7427 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles 90046.

Aerie, a loungewear and active-wear brand is offering fire victims free clothing, including tops, bottoms, pajamas, bras and underwear. Fire victims can fill out an online Google form and Aerie will ship out a package.

The National Council of Jewish Women is offering 1,000 $100 vouchers to be used at the Council Shop secondhand stores to help address immediate clothing needs. To access this resource please contact Selene Lopez and Maria Preciado at info@ncjwla.org.

The Suay Sew Shop is offering free clothing, water and food for fire victims until further notice.

Quirk is open all week from noon to 8 p.m. offering affected victims at least 10 items per person, visitors must show their ID.

Vuori is donating clothing to fire victims in these locations.

Health & Mental Health Resources

GoodRx is offering free online healthcare provider visits through GoodRx Care to Los Angeles-area residents affected by the wildfires. The service can be accessed online and Los Angeles residents can use the code LA-GOODRX-CARE.

Santa Barbara Midwifery and Birth Center is offering displaced Los Angeles-area fire victims free belly checks, postpartum care and other services for families who evacuated to the Santa Barbara area. For more information, email sbmidwifery@gmail.com.

Integrative Psychotherapy Group is offering free short-term therapy services to some fire victims and referral assistance for others needing longer-term or more acute treatment in the upcoming weeks. For information, contact (310) 461-4393 or info@ipgtherapy.com or visit their online website.

AltaMed has a mobile health unit at the Pasadena Convention Center providing health services to anyone who needs it. The unit is providing pediatrics, primary care, senior care, behavioral health, vision exams and free eyeglasses and medications, located at 300 E. Green St., Pasadena 91101.

Ahava Pharmacy in the Pico-Robertson neighborhood is helping evacuees override insurance holdups so they can get the medications they need. Call or text the pharmacy at (310) 299-8079 for help.

BetterHelp, an online mental health company, is providing three months of therapy free for fire victims and first responders. To connect with a therapist, email contact@betterhelp.com.

Remedy Place is offering a complimentary tech-remedy service to all first responders, medical providers and rescue workers through Feb. 1 at their West Hollywood location. For information, email Weho@remedyplace.com. 8305 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood 90069

Baby Supplies & Child Care

Babyletto is providing free cribs to families who have lost their homes or otherwise are affected by the fires. For more information contact the company at info@babyletto.com

Bobbie is providing any parent affected by the fires — Bobbie customer or not — with free baby formula. Fire victims can apply for the free formula online.

Los Angeles-area YMCA locations are offering free childcare for children of first responders, essential workers and families who have been displaced, evacuated or who have otherwise experienced loss. Space is limited. For more information or to sign up, contact afterschool@ymcaLA.org. Check the full list online.

Upwards is supporting daycare providers and families affected by the fires. The network is also assisting families in locating available childcare options. Email relief@upwards.com.

LA Family Support is offering up to three free days of child care or camp to families affected by the fires. Care can be booked through Jan. 31, though a form.

Pet Support

Best Friends Animal Society has activated two pet pantry locations that can provide supplies including pet food, cat litter, pet beds and other items as well as human sanitary products for those who have lost everything.

Vetster is offering California residents free online appointments with vets for owners whose pets are ill or are in need of medication that was left behind during an evacuation or lost to the fires. Visit the Vetster online help and support resource to set up an appointment.

In Defense of Animals is offering support to fire victims needing assistance with free, temporary housing for wild or domestic animals. For more information call Sammy Zablen at (310) 869-2383.

Petco is offering a free locator service to families whose pets are missing as a result of the fires. If you have lost or found a pet, sign up online for Petco Love Lost.

Kismet is offering dog food to pet owners affected by the fires and are extending the aid to organizations that are providing relief. Email support@kismetpets.com with your request.