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Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – March 2026

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

On Tuesday, March 24, our pre-merger Alaska AFA Scheduling Committee Chairpersons and Representatives met virtually 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, Director of Crew Planning Trisha Bennett, Manager of Flight Crew System Support Sue Rawlings, 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, April 28.

Topics of Discussion

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

Announcements

  • Next Meetings: Scheduled for April 21 (in person), followed by monthly meetings through December.
  • Scheduling Review Board (SRB) Updates: Series of updates needed for various dates throughout 2026.
  • Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Meetings: Upcoming meetings from late March to October 2026.
  • JCTE Updates: New updates anticipated in May.
  • Pairing Selection Meetings: Regular meetings scheduled from April to December 2026.
  • AI Crew Solutions: First meeting held in November 2025 to discuss vacation awards and processing of unbid slots, with follow-up in March 2026. Meetings will be ongoing for implementation requirements. 

MEC Committee Chairperson Report

  • Crew Backlog Review: Scheduled for April 14, 2026.
  • Crew Bi-Monthly Review: Met on March 4, 2026.
  • Known Crew Access Issues: Review scheduled for May.
  • Rainmaker Crew Pay System: Meetings scheduled for May, August, and November.
  • Fatigue Review Board: Regular meetings throughout 2026 to address crew fatigue.
  • NAVBLUE Monthly Calls: Ongoing discussions to address system updates.
  • JCTE Open Time Performance: Quarterly review meetings set for 2026-2027.
  • Personal Drop Report Process: Integrating updates into JCTE.
  • Pyramiding Pay Dispute: Ongoing discussions regarding reassignment pay.
  • 4K Dispute: AFA has filed a grievance regarding redeye and night rule compensation.
  • Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs): Discussions ongoing about Night Rule with Charters, 8.G & 8.F pyramid, 34.D self-help, and certification flights. 

Local Committee Chairperson Reports

  • PDX: Inquiry about transfer allowances.
  • SAN: Updates on pyramid charts and premium pay conversion.
  • ANC: Pay inquiries resolved, but issues with waiving the 4K rule remain for charters.
  • LAX: Technical issues with Crew Access and messaging systems in-flight, such as B2B and Teams.
  • SFO: Concerns regarding SAL postings and premium OT trades.
  • SEA: Snowstorm impacts and pay questions; some concerns addressed through flowcharts.

PBS Subcommittee

  • Bid Awards: Pairing line runs met reserve targets, with higher averages. Reserve line tuns were more challenging, especially in PDX, LAX, and SAN, requiring less-than-ideal solutions to meet staffing needs.
  • Bid Protest: 4K Rule Configurations: Configuration based on duty day, impacting charter awards. Management Actions: Temporarily holding off on building certain charters to avoid issues.
  • SSO Transition: Log-off testing impacting the transition to SSO; fix is pending.
  • Next release is currently undergoing testing

ITS Update

  • Testing Automation: Ongoing processes to enhance efficiency.
  • JCTE Release: Next release in progress with consistent updates expected in May 2026

Flight Attendant Crew Pay Update

  • February 2026 Trends: 2,371 total submissions, with 446 not applicable. 550 submissions are typically caught in the auditing process.
  • Analysts: Currently 6; more needed to handle combined operations.

Crew Planning Update

  • Block Hours: Increased to 335k hours for April.
  • TFP Average Lines: 80 TFP average lines reported with 19% reserves.
  • Staffing Adjustments: 336 staffing adjustment leaves projected.
  • Redeye Flying: High in ANC, SEA, and SAN, with minimums of 10% across bases.
  • Pairing Solutions: Focus on minimizing long trips and improving commutability, particularly in SAN, SEA, and ANC.
  • Irregular Operations Mitigation: Adjustments were made for delays, including increased layover times for crew rest.

Crew Scheduling Update

  • Sick Leave: Increased to 11.7% in March.
  • Reserve Utilization: 94.5% utilization noted across the system.
  • Reassignments: 849 total reassignments, mostly due to weather events.
  • Deadhead Conversions: 227 deadhead conversions recorded.
  • Fatigue Reports: Highest month for fatigue, with 26 reports submitted.
  • Crew Scheduler Staffing: Ongoing training for new schedulers; updates on staffing vacancies expected by June 1.

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. 
  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. 
  3. Ground Commuting: The Committee wants to remind Flight Attendants that contractual provisions are available for review under Section 37.B.  
  4. Flow Charts: The Committee is internally reviewing flow charts with management and will update once the parties agree. Stay tuned for an update soon. 
  5. Block2Block (B2B) Contactability: Implemented on February 1, 2026. Please familiarize yourself with the contractual language and bulletin bundle. We are reviewing B2B sustainability and ask that users report any issues.
  6. 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 website.

Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee Meeting Recap – March 2026

On Thursday, March 19, our AFA Local Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing work to represent our Flight Attendants and push for improvements in our workplace. Representing you at the meeting were Bradley Young (SFO), Carin Merritt (LAX pmAS), David Lake (SEA pmAS), Deb Wallstrom (ANC), Eva Gatus (SAN), Kalin Lackey (PDX), and Kahea Alvarez (LAX pmHA). Also present were MEC ASHSC Vice Chairperson Kerri Ruiz and MEC ASHSC Chairperson Seth Heiple.

The Committee met with Jesse Sexton (Director of Inflight Training & Standards), Johanna Giese (Manager of Inflight Safety Programs), Kaija Risdal (Inflight Safety and Compliance Specialist), Kaliko Howell (Manager of Inflight Policy and Procedure), Heidi Styley (Cabin Safety Manager), Matthew Coder (Senior Inflight Experience Program Manager), David Stewart (Manager of Security Operations), Sabrina Aguirre (Inflight Base Manager), and Kristina Garcia (Inflight Supervisor).

The next scheduled Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee meeting will take place in Portland on May 20, 2026.

Topics of Discussion

The Committee reviewed several items when meeting with management. Some items discussed include (items which are Security Sensitive Information are not included):

  • Fume Events, Procedures, and CRM: The ASHSC continues to raise concerns about recurring fume events on the A330 and A321 aircraft (described as “stinky socks” and “electric/cleaner/new shoe” odors), with inconsistent response across departments. The ASHSC is calling for focused training on in-flight and post-landing procedures, and the importance of CRM. Management acknowledged significant work is needed to align pmHA and pmAS workgroups on air quality.
  • Blocking Egress During Deplaning: A trend has been identified of Fleet Service bags, trash bags, and crew luggage being placed on the floor in front of the R1 door during deplaning, which can block the view of the girt bar during disarming verification on deplaning or catch on the girt bar causing it to be dislodged from the door clips. The ASHSC recommends a bulletin with diagrams or photos illustrating the issue. Management committed to a yearly reminder bulletin on the and communication with Fleet Service.
  • Window Shade Policy: The ASHSC believes the current window shade policy creates potential safety concerns by reducing situational awareness during taxi, takeoff, and landing. We have asked management to align policy with the pmHA practice of requiring shades open for these phases of flight, including a passenger PA notification and a Safety Risk Assessment (SRA). Management indicated no final decision has been made, and that they are currently leaning toward passenger choice. 
  • Window Shade Position Descriptions: For aircraft other than the 787, the ASHSC recommends say “open/close” instead of up/down as it is a more accurate description. Management will implement this change in a future revision.
  • Blocking Egress During Boarding: Some Flight Attendants are using the galley bar at R1 on the 737 during boarding to prepare pre-departure beverages. The ASHSC recommends a bulletin reminder about this practice and updated FAM language to clearly indicate that this is not permitted since it blocks egress at R1. Management agreed to add language to the FAM.
  • 2L Door Opening Procedures – A330: The current boarding door opening procedure on the A330 and 787 involves significant back-and-forth between the FFA and FA2, leading to inconsistencies and crew defaulting to previous or hybrid procedures. The ASHSC recommends streamlining the procedure. Management acknowledged this is already on their radar—noting that some procedures were written with single-aisle aircraft in mind, while the 2L door is the primary boarding door for widebodies. Work is ongoing, but no firm completion date has been set.
  • Cabin Status Call – A FA/FFA verbal Cross-Check: Current policy does not require the A FA/FFA to verbally confirm door armed/disarmed status during the Cabin Status Call, resulting in a breakdown of procedural consistency and a reduction in safety, particularly on aircraft where one Flight Attendant is responsible for disarming two doors. The ASHSC recommends going back to the previous pmAS policy of having the A FA/FFA to also verbalize that doors are armed/disarmed and cross-checked during the Cabin Status Call as this step reinforces the visual check. Management agreed to review the procedure and is leaning towards accepting the recommendation.
  • Exit Row Placards for the 161-Seat Configuration: The exit row briefing for row 18 on reconfigured 161-seat 737-800s is being missed. The ASHSC recommends adding seat placards as a reminder for both passengers and crew. This is also an ERC recommendation and would need to be referred to Cabin Interiors.
  • Charter Flight Flight Attendant Coordination: policy deviations have been noted in the charter operation. Management* has agreed to work with the ASHSC to identify enclose policy gaps, including practices like boarding 737s without a tail stand.
  • L1 Door Closure Procedure – Video Clarification: There is ambiguity in FAM 11.200 regarding the boarding door closure procedure, specifically, the term “jointly close.” Management has agreed to produce a new video, like the one for door opening, showing what the procedure should look like for both CSAs and Flight Attendants.
  • Demo Kit Location: Forward demo kits stored loosely in the last row of First Class can co-mingle with passenger bags, which can make it difficult to consistently find and access this piece of emergency equipment. The ASHSC again requests management install a divider in the overhead bin to keep the demo kit separated from COBs.
  • Service Cart Weight: Fully prepped service carts carrying both meals and beverages are heavy and difficult to maneuver in limited galley space, contributing to repetitive motion injuries and creating safety concerns as crew adapt to fit everything. Management will loop in additional stakeholders for further review and the ASHSC will coordinate with the Inflight Service Committee to develop an AFA joint recommendation to management on how to address this hazard.
  • Retrofitted 737-800 Aft Overhead Fire Extinguishers: Aft overhead water and Halon extinguishers in the retrofitted 737-800 aircraft are positioned too far back in the overhead bin for some Flight Attendants to effectively preflight or to access quickly in an emergency. The ASHSC recommends repositioning them to a more accessible location. Management conducted a comparison and found that these pieces of equipment in 737-800 bins sit approximately 2 inches deeper than the 737-700s due to bin dimensions and seat configuration differences but also confirmed there is no immediate fix planed.

Things The Committee Is Working On

  1. European Flying Validation Flights and FAA Certification LOA: The ASHSC is coordinating AFA participation in validation flights for both 787 and 737 European flying. We are also working with our MEC on a Letter of Agreement (LOA) that will govern Flight Attendant involvement in future FAA certification activities, including the proving run flights and mini evacuations that will need to occur prior to cross-flying.
  2. Joint Emergency Procedures Development: The ASHSC continues to work with management on developing joint emergency procedures, which will be incorporated into transition training. The focus is on keeping change manageable for Flight Attendants while streamlining procedures and checklists were doing so would likely improve safety outcomes.
  3. New Reporting Tool Feedback: The ASHSC and other early adopters will soon have the opportunity to provide feedback on the first iteration of the new reporting tool being developed by management to replace Report It.

We Want to Hear From You!

If you’ve encountered any safety-related issues at work, you can help the Committee advocate for improvement and change by submitting a report:

  • pmHA: Use INTELEX to submit In-Flight Incident Reports (including fatigue and injury) and Hawaiian Safety Action Program (HSAP) reports.
  • pmAS: Use ReportIt! to submit FAIRs (including Fatigue reports), ASAP reports, and Employee Injury Reports (EIR).

If you need clarification or assistance on what type of report to file, please get in touch with a member of your Local ASHSC.

Your Local ASHSC is always ready to represent your voice to management. Please don’t hesitate to let us know about any issues or concerns you want us to bring forward. We would also love to hear any other feedback you may have for the Committee. You can find our contact information on the ASHSC page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website.

Hawaiian Seattle Domicile Council 43 and Council 47 Meeting Recap

This message is for pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants

  • A MEC Grievance has been filed over management’s requirement for proof of relocation to qualify for the flat rate payment, with AFA contesting the change and moving the dispute to arbitration
  • The SEA Domicile Negotiating Committee has been addressing the vague and inconsistent guidance regarding “reasonable” moving expenses
  • Flight Attendants are encouraged to copy the SEA Domicile Negotiating Committee on related emails to ensure compliance

Council 43 and Council 47 SEA Domicile Meeting

The Negotiating Committee would like to acknowledge and thank everyone for their participation and engagement in the SEA Domicile meetings. The Negotiating Committee understands that there are still many questions about what qualifies as  “reasonable” actual moving expenses for reimbursement and the flat rate payment. Despite the grievance AFA filed and pending arbitration, we have been engaging with the company to work through these issues, but have only received vague, unclear, and conflicting guidance. We have been appealing to management, emphasizing the need to communicate clear, consistent guidelines for the Flight Attendants.

Thanks to the many of you who have cc:’ed the SEA Domicile Negotiating Committee (SEA NC) on your communications with management.This has brought to light these inconsistencies.  If you are experiencing any inconsistencies with the Inflight Administration regarding these issues, please copy the SEA Domicile Negotiating Committee (using the “cc:” function, add “SEA@afahawaiian.org“) on your emails so we may monitor and address them to ensure contractual compliance.

Meeting Recap

  • Address Changes will trigger tax changes and a qualifying life event for medical insurance. Health insurance is subject to our contractual requirements, which will not change. Please contact the People Resource Line (PRL) if you have any questions at 1-844-899-3617 (Monday to Friday 5 AM HT to 4 PM HT) at PeopleResourceLine@alaskaair.com. To verify provider participation, please contact your insurance provider directly.
  • If you will be Commuting, it is in your best interest to register as a commuter. Please review the Commuter Policy Letter of Agreement and register using your Hawaiian Airlines SSO (Single Sign-On) here. Alternatively, Flight Attendants may search “Commuter Policy” on the IFS (InFlight Sharepoint) website.
    • After the PSS (Passenger Service System) Cutover on April 22, boarding priority will be based on the Hawaiian Airlines company year of hire, followed by check-in time. Employees will maintain their company seniority for pass travel privileges. The earliest check-in time will be available 24 hours prior to departure (local time of the city of departure)
    • For an overview of the AS Travel Program, please visit TeamAAG using your Alaska SSO
  • Moving Expenses
    • Flight Attendants may delay claiming the moving expense and requesting reimbursement up to 12 months from the effective date of the transfer:
      • For April 1 transfers, the deadline is March 31, 2027, and,
      • For May 1 transfers, the deadline is April 30, 2027.
    • If electing Actual Moving Expenses, the limitation for expenses covered will be from domicile to domicile or actual cost of the move, whichever is less, and up to 1500 cubic feet or 15,000 pounds for household goods and personal effects. As an example, if a Flight Attendant is moving from Honolulu to Orlando, Florida, the company will only cover the portion of the cost that is equal to a move from Honolulu to Seattle (domicile to domicile); anything in excess will be the responsibility of the Flight Attendant.
      • Please contact Inflight Administration at HA.Inflight.Admin@alaskaair.com for the following:
        • To request Positive Space, you may request positive space on either Hawaiian Airlines or Alaska Airlines
        • For Space Available Cargo Shipping, please contact 1-800-225-2725 to coordinate your reservation. Form SP-28 must be completed, indicating that you have been awarded a relocation to SEA. The SP-28 Form is available through Inflight Administration.
        • For any Pet Shipping that requires special handling please reach out to Gary.Ichimura@alaskaair.com to facilitate any special approvals
        • You are also eligible for reimbursement for transportation of up to two personal vehicles, shipping arrangements are the FA’s responsibility.
    • If electing Flat Rate Expenses, AFA is currently disputing the company’s unilateral implementation of proof of relocation requirements. Please be aware that if proof of relocation is not provided in accordance with management’s demands a Flight Attendant’s payment may be denied or clawed back if already received. Those who elect the Flat Rate options are not entitled to Settling Expenses as outlined in Section 5.F.
  • Pick-Ups between SEA-based Flight Attendants and those out of domicile will be subject to the ETCH rules which protect the flying out of each base. A Flight Attendant can pick up trips as long as there is no conflict with moving days and training and the trip has cleared the 12-hour hold of the ETCH folder.
  • Starting April 25, SEA-based Flight Attendants will begin to wear the newly distributed Dreamliner Uniform. In the interim, between April 10 and April 24 Flight Attendants will continue to wear the Hawaiian Airlines uniform. Flight Attendants based in HNL and LAX will be able to order the new Dreamliner Uniform at a later date.
  • Immersion Training will be located at the Alaska Airlines Global Training Center which is located at 1301 SW 16th Street, Renton, WA 98057. Clothing attire at this training should be in line with the company’s Uniform Guidelines. Discussions are still being had for Immersion Training opportunities for Flight Attendants in HNL and LAX.

AFA encourages Flight Attendants to voice your opinions and concerns at the upcoming Inflight Insights Townhall on Tuesday, March 31 at 2 PM PT and 11 AM HT on Microsoft Teams. Inflight management will be taking live and pre-submitted questions. Here is your chance to get the clarification and answers to questions directly from management. Please use the Hawaiian SSO to submit a question here. We strongly encourage all non-operating Flight Attendants to participate.

Flat Rate Grievance Update

An MEC grievance was filed on February 23, 2026, regarding the Moving Language Violation, requiring proof of relocation to qualify for the flat rate payment. AFA’s stance is that Flight Attendants are able to qualify for the flat rate payment in lieu of actual moving expenses without providing proof of relocation. The flat rate payment allows the Flight Attendant to establish essential necessities at their new domicile. This includes, but is not limited to, establishing a crashpad and transportation. Management’s new requirement is a unilateral change by the company that AFA did not agree to. Management believes they have the ability to require documentation. The initial hearing for the grievance was held on March 13. A decision denying the grievance was rendered on March 19. AFA is moving forward with an arbitration.

If you are unable to provide the company requested documentation:

  • Document all interactions with the management regarding your denial of the Flat Rate moving expense
  • Flight Attendants may copy (cc:) the SEA Domicile Negotiating Committee (SEA@afahawaiian.org) in any emails with management
  • Flight Attendants who are wrongly denied the Flat Rate, or who are paid the Flat Rate which is subsequently wrongly recouped by management, will be included in the grievance.

SEA Domicile Resources

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your local leadership or email the SEA Domicile Negotiating Committee at SEA@afahawaiian.org.

2025-2028 CBA Final Document

The final 2025-2028 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) document is complete and has been sent for printing. Be on the lookout for information from your Local Council if you are interested in a printed copy of the CBA.

The final 2025-2028 CBA hyperlinked document is also complete and loaded on the IMD. You can find the document in Comply365 under Inflight > ASFASupplemental > Collective Bargaining Agreement > Contract > 2025-2028 AFA Alaska CBA Final 03.11.2026 (don’t forget to “favorite” the document for quick access). You can also find the document on the AFA Alaska website and download it to your personal device if desired.

We are awaiting management review/approval on the 2025-2028 CBA Reference Document so it can be published to the IMD. In the meantime, you can access the current version of the document online here – feel free to download it to your personal device or IMD for quick reference.

Thank you for your patience throughout this process.

MEC Town Hall Video and Q&A Recap – March 3, 2026

The recording of our March 3 MEC Town Hall is now available! Watch the video on the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian YouTube channel using the private link below. Please note that the video is accessible only through the link here and is not publicly posted on our channel.

We’ve also put together a summary of the questions Flight Attendants asked during the Town Hall, along with the answers from our MEC Officers and AFA panelists. You can find the Q&A below.

We’re excited to announce that planning for our next MEC Town Hall is already underway for June. We’ll share the exact date and time as soon as it’s set, closer to the beginning of May and prior to the start of June bidding. Thank you for your ongoing engagement and for staying informed!

MEC Town Hall Q&A

Q: Alaska and Hawaiian Flight Attendant Solidarity

What is our MEC’s plan to build solidarity between Hawaiian and Alaska Flight Attendants, especially once we approach a vote on a Tentative Agreement (TA) for our Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA)?

A: Timothy Green, MEC President

Our MEC is currently allowing solidarity to develop organically while the dust settles from the merger. Interactions are increasing as Hawaiian and Alaska Flight Attendants begin sharing facilities in Los Angeles and the upcoming Seattle domicile. Solidarity is built at the personal, one-on-one level, which fosters trust and understanding. When the time is right, AFA will develop and implement activities, such as airport walks, to build solidarity and ensure Members are unified for the upcoming vote.

Q: Transition Training Schedule

When can we expect transition training to begin, and what schedule will it follow?

A: Brice McGee, MEC Vice President

The exact schedule for transition training is still being determined by management, as it will be a massive logistical lift. Our MEC’s absolute priority is ensuring contractual language is followed when the schedule is released. Management will provide the hard dates to our MEC as soon as they are finalized.

Q: Cost-of-Living/Domicile Wages

Given rising costs and the fact that all bases are located in expensive areas, could we consider a cost-of-living bonus or domicile wages for Flight Attendants who live closer to their bases?

A: Paul Ikioka, MEC Secretary-Treasurer

The commuter protections that were negotiated did not incur an incremental cost. While our MEC will continue to fight for additional improvements in compensation under the Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA), special cost-of-living compensation is not currently under consideration.

Q: MEC Election Governance

Do any LEC Presidents who participated in the last two MEC elections intend to bring forward an agenda item to the Board of Directors (BOD) to address the structural issue of candidates voting for themselves? Also, how will our MEC ensure that voting power remains proportionate, as Local Council distribution may differ during the merger environment?

A: Timothy Green, MEC President

Elections: The previous MEC Officer elections were held in accordance with AFA policy and constitutional language. I am unaware of any Local Presidents bringing forward an agenda item to address the specific concern. However, there is a BOD agenda item that would allow direct member elections at the MEC and international levels, making this issue moot if it passes. (Editor’s note: The 2026 AFA Board of Directors Convention agenda items proposing direct membership election of MEC and International Officers were not adopted.)
Voting Power: Under the current process, each Local Council President generally receives one vote when deciding an issue. In cases where voting is based on membership numbers, each Member in good standing within the Council counts as one vote, ensuring fair representation.

Q: Portland Widebody Hangar

Is the hangar for widebodies being built in Portland?

A: Brice McGee, MEC Vice President

The development of the widebody hangar in Portland has moved past the rumor stage and is in the company’s plans. Construction is slated to begin in 2028.

Q: Return to Original Base (pmHA Seattle Transfer)

If I choose to go to the Seattle base during the second wave of transfers, am I guaranteed a spot back in Honolulu should I decide to transfer back?

A: Paul Ikioka, MEC Secretary-Treasurer

A return to the original base is not guaranteed. However, there are negotiated provisions. The first 500 Flight Attendants who transfer to the Seattle base will be eligible to bid for a return, but only 300 slots will be awarded. You must be part of the first 500 transfers to be eligible for the return bid.

Q: Horizon Transfer Travel Seniority

Why is Alaska not honoring Horizon transfer travel seniority?

A: Timothy Green, MEC President

The issue is due to company policy. The contractual language only requires Flight Attendants to have the same benefits as all other employees in accordance with company policy, which management dictates. Our MEC has limited avenues to challenge the policy. The last Alaska section 6 Negotiating Committee (JNC) negotiated language into the Alaska contract that would honor travel seniority if the company changes its policy from company seniority to Alaska Air Group (AAG) seniority. Until the company adopts AAG seniority, the policy will remain unchanged.

Q: Critical Incident Protections and Civil Unrest

Is our MEC planning to expand contractual critical incident protections to include civil unrest and similar safety-related events (to receive 7-day pay and point protection)? Will management also consider giving Flight Attendants more individual Lyra sessions when they experience a critical incident?

A: Brice McGee, MEC Vice President

Expanding the definition of a critical incident to include civil unrest is being noted by the JNC. Regarding Lyra sessions, our Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee is constantly working to expand mental health access, and real-world examples like civil unrest help make the case to management.

Q: Low Hiring on the Alaska Side

Why is hiring down so low and leaves up so high on the Alaska side?

A: Paul Ikioka, MEC Secretary-Treasurer

The hiring needs are based on projected flying. For Alaska, the delays in the 737 deliveries are currently slowing down the hiring process. In contrast, Hawaiian recently received additional 787s and has increased staffing to support those routes. Hawaiian also started using the optimizer after joining the Alaska network, which increased aircraft utilization, leading to a staffing shortage on that side.

Q: Jump Seats and Weight/Balance

Is our MEC looking into a system that includes Flight Attendant jump seats in weight and balance, allowing self-assignment on a first-come, first-served basis within a specified window?

A: Timothy Green, MEC President

Our JNC has proposed language to protect jump seats from weight-and-balance restrictions, but management continues to push back, despite the JNC’s belief that helping Flight Attendants get to work benefits both the employee and the company. Neither Alaska nor Hawaiian policies currently allow reserving jump seats in advance, and our JNC is focused on keeping that policy unchanged to balance the demand from commuters and non-commuters.

Q: San Diego Base Transfers for Pre-Merger Alaska

With the growth of the San Diego base and a new pilot base opening, will there be base transfers for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants this year? If so, when and how many?

A: Brice McGee, MEC Vice President

Management is expected to need to open transfers due to increased flying in San Diego. The exact number of slots or dates is not available due to the fluid nature of the situation. Our SAN LEC Officers are actively pushing management for the headcount.

Q: Co-terminal Parking for Out-of-Base Trips

As LAX and SFO see a decrease in flying, many Flight Attendants will look to pick up trips out of domicile. Can management be required to allow parking at co-terminals?

A: Paul Ikioka, MEC Secretary-Treasurer

A change is unlikely. Both the Hawaiian and Alaska contracts only require parking to be provided at the Flight Attendant’s domicile. Management would likely not agree to provide additional parking at other domiciles. To clarify, a Flight Attendant can generally park at a co-terminal when picking up a trip that originates there, but they must use their assigned LAX parking when commuting.

Q: Low-Bid/Line Job Sharing in JCBA

Is the Hawaiian contract’s provision for lower-built lines (e.g., stopping at 40 hours) something our JNC is looking at incorporating into the JCBA to address the desire for low-bid/line job sharing?

A: Timothy Green, MEC President

Our JNC recognizes the value of scheduling flexibility and is exploring a low-bid option in joint contract negotiations. The Hawaiian contract includes a dedicated number of low-time lines, ranging from roughly 37.5 to 55 hours per month. This is on the radar and is a priority for our JNC as they look to include the most beneficial language from each contract.

Q: San Francisco Base Future

With the flight schedule reduction in San Francisco, what are the plans for the base as a whole? Has management made any reassurances about the base?

A: Brice McGee, MEC Vice President

Management has explicitly assured our MEC that they are not looking at closing San Francisco or any other base. The flight schedule changes are an effort to compete in different markets. Our MEC agrees that a strong presence in San Francisco is necessary to be competitive and is advocating to ensure the base remains viable.

Q: Hawaiian Medical Stop-Loss Benefit

Is a medical stop-loss benefit with Hawaiian on the table for discussion?

A: Paul Ikioka, MEC Secretary-Treasurer

Hawaiian Flight Attendants currently have a medical stop loss provision in the contract (on page 32-5). It covers anything out of pocket over $1,500. The submission deadline is April 1.

Q: Position Bidding Process

Will Flight Attendants be bidding for their positions on domestic or international trips upon checking in during the crew briefing?

A: Brice McGee, MEC Vice President

Pre-merger Alaska and pre-merger Hawaiian have different processes, and the status quo remains until a JCBA is reached. How positions are bid will be negotiated by the JNC based on Member feedback and polling.

Q: Purser Program

Will management be offering a purser program to be competitive in the industry, where Flight Attendants would apply and go through a purser training program?

A: Paul Ikioka, MEC Secretary-Treasurer

There is no official word, only rumors, about launching a purser program. Management’s current focus is on defining the new international service. Because the Hawaiian contract requires AFA to sign off on the proposed service, negotiating that hurdle must likely happen before management considers a purser program.

Q: Co-terminal/Satellite Bases in the Bay Area

Is there any discussion of co-terminal trips in the Bay Area (specifically satellite bases or a full new base) or opening satellite bases off the West Coast to alleviate operational stress?

A: Timothy Green, MEC President

This topic has not been brought up or touched on in any way by management during negotiations.

Q: Prescription Costs and Eliminations

Who negotiates the prescription costs and prescription eliminations? Some prescriptions (e.g., GLPs) are no longer covered.

A: Brice McGee, MEC Vice President

Our MEC does not negotiate prescription benefits because the company is self-insured, and responsibility for prescription coverage lies with management and the insurance provider.

Q: Hotel Gain Share Agreement

When can we expect to see movement on the hotel gain share agreement from the Alaska CBA?

A: Brice McGee, MEC Vice President & Timothy Green, MEC President

Negotiations are currently at a standstill due to tax implications raised by the company. AFA International’s legal department has consulted external tax attorneys, and our MEC is working through their initial response. Our MEC remains hopeful we can move the program forward once the tax issues are resolved.

Q: Seattle Employee Parking

I’m relocating from Honolulu to Seattle and am 1,200 on the waitlist for employee parking. Has this been discussed with management, and will there be enough room in an alternate lot?

A: Brian Palmer, MEC Communications Committee Chairperson

The main North Employee Parking Lot (NEPL), operated by the Port of Seattle, is full, and new cards are not being issued. Management is temporarily relocating those on the waitlist to a contracted secondary lot farther away. There is plenty of parking available in the alternate lots, and new transfers are asked to submit for the NEPL waitlist so they can be moved there when space becomes available.

Q: Meeting Attendance

How many people attended today’s meeting?

A: Brian Palmer, MEC Communications Committee Chairperson

About 100 participants were viewing live on average during most of the meeting.

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 […]

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 Conduct22. Threatening, intimidating, or discourteous behavior, including abusive, profane, or obscene language, acts, […]

Human Rights & Equity Committee Meeting Recap – 1st Quarter 2026

On Wednesday, March 25, our AFA Human Rights & Equity Committee Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing activism to raise awareness and create positive change within our workplace and community. Your representatives attending the meeting included Louise Borras (LAX-pmAS), Bruni Agosto-Pinal (LAX-pmHA), Aaron Miller (PDX), Nyachan Chuar (ANC), and Yan Yan Teague (SEA). MEC Human […]

Pre-Merger Hawaiian Inflight Service Committee Update – March 2026

Editor’s Note: Our MEC Inflight Service Committee now represents both pre-merger airlines, but management still makes service decisions that affect each group of Flight Attendants differently. This update covers changes for both Hawaiian- and Alaska-branded flying, but is specific to aircraft flown by pre-merger Hawaiian Airlines crews. As the work of the merger progresses, we […]

Joint Contract Negotiations Session 13 – March 2026

Our JNC met this week for three days of collective bargaining with management. The JNC focused on clarifying questions about moving expenses and presented a proposal for Sick Leave, using feedback from Flight Attendants to guide improvements. The Committee is working to incorporate the strongest elements from both contracts to ensure better support for all members.

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