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Human Rights Committee Meeting Recap – 1st Quarter 2025

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

On Tuesday, March 25, our AFA Local Human Rights 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 Nyachan Chuar (ANC), Louise Borras (LAX), Aaron Miller (PDX), Erika Daniel (SAN), and Freddy Vega (SEA). MEC Human Rights Committee Chairperson Chip Hestle II was also present.

The committee met with several members of management: Vice President of Inflight Matt Prainito, Managing Director of Inflight Services Gloria Chow-Vanderwell, Seattle Director of Inflight Base Operations Jenny Bookert, and Interim Regional Director of Inflight Base Operations Benito Pasia-Garcia Jr.

The committee’s next meeting with management is scheduled for June 12.

Topics of Discussion

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

  • Removal of Q1 CBT “Understanding Transgender Identity”: The committee had concerns about why this module was removed from the training curriculum. Management explained in more detail that the module didn’t undergo the mandatory review process to ensure it’s necessary, timely, and consistent in tone and content with other training modules. The Committee expressed concerns about the timing of this removal and would like to see the module relaunch in another CBT. Management also stated that although the module was removed, topics related to gender identity were covered in an Annual Compliance Training module previously offered to all Alaska employees. The committee and management will continue discussions surrounding this concern.      
  • MedLink App Gender Identifier Update: The MedLink app has been updated to include an option for users to select “male,” “female,” or “other.” This change was part of the 11.30 version update.  
  • Working More Closely With CWA Districts: Local Human Rights Committee Chairs will connect with their local CWA District, which will give the committee a broader national awareness of Human Rights.      

What The Committee Is Working On

  1. Optional Pronouns on Wings. Awaiting finalization of the merger with Hawaiian Airlines, as there may be an overall new design.  
  2. Arrival “Land Acknowledgement Announcements” for our six current domiciles and also requesting consideration of HNL.
  3. Batok Tattoos Visible While In Uniform. Awaiting finalization of Alaska merger with Hawaiian.
  4. Gender Neutrality Of CSA Manual. Requesting removal of the use of the identity language of he/she when addressing proper dress attire for non-rev travel.
  5. Business Resource Group (BRG) Listening Sessions, co-facilitated with Local AFA Human Rights Chairpersons for 2025. 

We Want to Hear From You!

Do you have feedback for the committee, concerns you’d like to share, or items you’d like brought up with management? Please let us know! Your Local Human Rights Committee is your voice to management. You can find our contact information on the Human Rights Committee page of the AFA Alaska website.

Upcoming 2025 AFA Board of Directors Meeting

This message is for both pre-merger Alaska and Hawaiian Flight Attendants

This weekend, our Master Executive Council (MEC) Officers, Local Executive Council (LEC) Presidents, and several other LEC Officers and Committee Chairpersons will be attending the 52nd Annual AFA Board of Directors (BOD) meeting in Orlando, Florida. They will come together with representatives from the other airlines that make up AFA to conduct our Union’s business at the international level.

Schedule of Events

Friday, April 4Executive Board Meeting (MEC President from each airline)
Saturday, April 5         Board of Directors Meeting

BOD Meeting Agenda Items

Your LEC President represents you and other members of your Local Council on the BOD. They will be casting votes on your behalf during the BOD meeting. While our MEC Officers serve in an ex-officio capacity on the BOD, they do not have voting privileges.

This year, as in all odd-numbered years, the only advanced agenda item for consideration by the Board is the annual AFA-CWA budget. Each Local Council has held or will hold a Local Council meeting before the BOD meeting to discuss the proposed budget and gain your feedback. Details about the proposed 2025-2026 AFA-CWA budget can be found on the AFA BOD Meeting website.

Learn More About The BOD Meeting

If you’re curious to know more about the BOD meeting and what happens there, you can find an interactive module with more information on the AFA Online Learning Academy. This module is an excellent resource that will give you valuable insights into the important role of the BOD meeting in conducting business and making decisions at the international level of our Union. Whether you want to learn more about how our Union works or are looking to get more involved, this module is the perfect opportunity to explore our constitutional process and expand your knowledge.

Click here to access the “What is the AFA Board of Directors?” module >

Note: If it’s your first time using the AFA Online Learning Academy, you’ll need to register for a free account to access the module.

Questions?

If you have any questions or thoughts about the BOD meeting or any of the submitted agenda items, please contact your LEC President.

Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – March 2025

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

On Tuesday, March 25, 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 Hotel Committee Chairperson James Bozanich, MEC Scheduling Committee Vice Chairperson—Pairing Construction Karen Ferrell, and PBS Subcommittee Member Adam Clarey. 

The committee met with Managing Director of Operations Staffing and Resource Management Brittany Audette, Interim Managing Director of Inflight Operations and Crew Scheduling Sara Cook, Hawaiian Airlines Director of Crew Scheduling Terrance Chariandy, Director Crew Planning Trisha Bennett, Inflight Crew Scheduling Supervisor Matthew Trujillo, Manager of Crew Pay Debbie Bakke, Crew Hotels Specialist Nichole Turner, Senior Manager of Product Management (ITS) Rick Mitchell and other management representatives from Crew Planning and Crew Scheduling.

The Committee is next scheduled to meet on Tuesday, April 22.

Topics of Discussion

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

  • Drug Testing Procedures: A significant concern was raised about the drug testing protocol occurring at the end of flight sequences, particularly regarding whether the debrief period is extended. A specific case was mentioned where an FA had to wait for 90 minutes before being tested, which could impact crew schedules and rest periods. Crew Scheduling said they would extend if the Flight Attendant called and notified them.
  • Hotel/Transportation Procedures: Discussions highlighted that the current procedures for hotel and transportation remain unchanged. Questions were raised about when crews would return to their hotels, especially regarding ongoing investigations. Crews expressed a preference for their established routines and suggested that relocating to specific hotels may be more efficient.
  • Crew Access Notifications: The need for improved notifications regarding drops for Open Time/Flight Attendant to Flight Attendant trading was stressed. Members requested a structured list for submitting grab/handshake requests to enhance communication and operational efficiency.
  • Payroll Queries: Concerns were voiced about unnecessary payroll queries that complicate the submission process for missing information. A desire to streamline this process was expressed to allow Flight Attendants to focus on the items listed for submission.
  • RT Rescheduling Issues: There were complications regarding rescheduling recurrent training in ANC, particularly for those scheduled less than seven days out. AFA contacted management to obtain more information about the process. 
  • FAI Turn Concerns: Flight Attendants reported ongoing issues with ANC-FAI turns being dropped into Open Time, resulting in them being required to stand up overnight in hotel accommodations for a trip that only pays 6 TFP. This situation raises safety concerns, as the time spent checking into the hotel leaves crew members with insufficient rest.
  • Hotel Map Issues: It was reported that the hotel map was not populating correctly on Crew Access. ITS is aware and has notified the vendor. 
  • Open Time Filter and Reassignment Queries: Challenges were noted with an OT filter issue related to IOS 18.4. Furthermore, there were discussions regarding reassignment and deadhead conversion processes, particularly the impact on boarding pay during these conversions. Flight Attendants reported not receiving notifications of reassignments, which should be communicated through the scheduling system.
  • Transportation Delays: A particular incident involved crew members arriving early for a redeye flight and experiencing delays in van service, exacerbated by difficulties contacting the transportation service. Please file CrewCare reports with API so AFA and management can document these events.
  • Hotel Changes and Bid Packet Issues: Concerns were raised about hotel changes that were not appropriately communicated in the bid packets for CUN layovers. Issues included blackout dates not being assigned and the need for a phased approach to the assignment process, as hotels often do not respond promptly to Alaska Airlines.
  • Reporting Hotel and Transportation Issues: Flight Attendants were encouraged to report any hotel and transportation issues they encounter. This feedback will help hold vendors accountable and improve service quality. The API ticketing system was highlighted as an important tool for tracking these issues.
  • Payroll and Compensation Reviews: Clarifications regarding payroll processes were provided, emphasizing that Crew Scheduling does not determine compensation, and that payroll will review trips for due payments.
  • PBS Bidding Updates: The April bidding process was reportedly efficient, with most tasks completed by Subcommittee Members. There was a noted increase in OT in SEA, though overall, it remained relatively low compared to other bases.
  • PBS Bid Protest Statistics: The Subcommittee reported a total of 51 bid protests last month, indicating areas where Flight Attendants are expressing their concerns.
  • PBS NAVBLUE Meetings: Various meetings were conducted, including a demonstration addressing iOS scrolling issues. Despite past concerns, NAVBLUE believes improvements should be classified as enhancements, though management is pushing back.
  • TA2 Items: The AFA Implementation Representative reported on the prioritization of boarding pay as a critical item for the new CBA. The Negotiating Committee indicates that an interactive online CBA will require significant formatting work, including the adjustment of hyperlinks and redlining of the contract, which will be available soon.
  • ITS Update: The testing for the 25.1 release has shown promising results, with automated processes being developed. Crew Planning is focusing on CBA items and their scope, with trade metrics remaining stable at 57k and no recent trade issues. There is a Crew Access update scheduled for April 1, 2025. 
  • Payroll Update Query Resolutions: Progress on resolving payroll queries was discussed, focusing on reducing unnecessary filings. The committee is awaiting updates on compensation guidelines related to the new CBA.
  • Staffing and Block Hours: An increase in block hours was recorded, with staffing planned to average 77.5 TFP in May. The reserve block ratio is 19%, indicating a robust operational capacity. 
  • Operational Adjustments: Route planning has included considerations of IRROP mitigation strategies for the spring, particularly in response to SAN construction and the potential impacts of volcanic activity on operations.
  • Sick Leave Trends: A notable decrease in sick leave usage (down to 9%) was reported, signaling improved attendance among Flight Attendants. An update on sick leave and state bank policies was planned, with guidance to be provided to Flight Attendants.
  • Reserve Utilization: The highest reserve utilization was reported in SEA, with efforts to manage scheduling needs effectively. Reports indicated reduced fatigue incidents among Flight Attendants, with only 13 reported in March compared to 27 in February.
  • CBA Timeline and Changes: An overview of the new CBA implementation timeline was shared, including critical changes around call-out documentation and reassignment processes.

The detailed discussions across various bases revealed a commitment to addressing operational challenges and enhancing the Flight Attendant experience. Key topics included safety, communication, payroll efficiency, and the implications of the new CBA. The committee is focused on creating actionable solutions while fostering a collaborative environment with management to improve processes and outcomes for Flight Attendants.

What The Committee Is Working On

  1. NAVBLUE. The PBS Subcommittee preparing for a new release of NAVBLUE. Once received they will test before the release is implemented. The Committee is also continuing to provide in person and virtual base sits so that all flight attendants may attend and get answers to all PBS bidding related questions.
  2. 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.
  3. Crew Planning. Crew Planning shared a monthly presentation about Pairing Statistics. Crew Planning is focused on anticipating increased block hours as the summer season approaches, with specific strategies to optimize trip lengths and identify commutability for flight crews. The team is also collaborating with operational analytics to develop dashboards that facilitate better decision-making and efficiency in scheduling.
  4. Crew Pay. Crew pay is working on additional communications aimed at improving clarity and addressing the high volume of queries surrounding pay discrepancies. The payroll team is committed to resolving ongoing issues quickly to ensure crew members receive their compensation accurately and on time.
  5. AFA Payroll Representative. The Committee has been advocating for a streamlined process to resolve outstanding pay issues for crew members efficiently. The focus is on ensuring timely compensation and improved communication. 

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.

Joint Contract Negotiations Begin

Our Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC) has completed the first week of negotiations for our Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA). 

Normally, this update would have been published sooner; however, a lot has been happening at both Alaska and Hawaiian:

  • February 28: AFA Alaska TA2 was ratified for the Alaska Flight Attendant Contract
  • March 1: Merged Alaska + Hawaiian Master Executive Councils (MEC) officers’ term began 
  • March 3 and 4: JNC Negotiations Training
  • March 4-6, 10, 11, 13, 17: JNC Negotiations planning meetings took place
  • March 11: AFA Hawaiian reached TA on Contract Extension
  • March 18: JCBA Negotiations began
Our Joint Negotiating Committee is (L-R): Jeff Fuke, Paula Mastrangelo, Tim Green, Heather Reier, Virginia Fritz, and Martin Gusman

With the MECs of both carriers merged, we were now able to begin JCBA negotiations. This JCBA bargaining is unique as we merge two strong and complex contracts on the heels of negotiating successor contracts to both the Hawaiian and Alaska Contracts. As a result, our opening proposals in joint contract negotiations were broad and brief. Key highlights of our Opening Proposal:

  • Each contract section will be addressed individually.
  • The Alaska CBA will be used as a basis for language purposes.
  • Our commitment is to combine the best of both contracts. 
  • We will be seeking improvements over the current contract provisions.
  • Big decisions like TFP vs Block Pay, Open Time systems, etc., will be decided downline after surveying members and consulting with the MEC.

For our first session, we focused on the less controversial sections and passed proposals on the following: 

  • Non-Discrimination
  • Purpose of Agreement
  • Savings Clause
  • Status of Agreement
  • Probation Period
  • Seniority
  • Grievance Procedures
  • System Board of Adjustment
  • Association Security
  • Training
  • Leaves of Absence

Tentative Agreements were reached on the following sections:

  • Non-Discrimination
  • Purpose of Agreement
  • Savings Clause
  • Status of Agreement
  • Probation Period
  • Association Security
  • Medical Examinations

As we move forward, the JNC will normally meet with management for one session per month. Your input will be crucial as the JNC pinpoints the most beneficial language from our two contracts. Our plan involves consulting with our MEC and the relevant Alaska and Hawaiian AFA committee chairs. This will ensure the JNC possesses the necessary working knowledge to fully understand each contractual provision. Then, we will develop section-specific Member surveys to determine our negotiating priorities. 

The JNC will be conducting several membership surveys throughout JCBA negotiations that target specific areas of the contract. This will give you the opportunity to provide us with the most current feedback on many key contractual sections, including:

  • Reserve 
  • Pick Ups, Drops, Trades, and Exchanges / Exchange of Sequences 
  • Scheduling / Hours of Service 
  • Sick Leave 
  • Vacation 
  • Commuter Policy
  • TFP/Block Hours

Our first Survey about the Commuter Policy is currently being developed and will be sent out in the near future. Please anticipate these surveys throughout negotiations as we approach key sections.  

We value your feedback as we work together to create the best possible contract for our combined group. Please reach out to us with any questions or ideas you may have so that we can ensure we leave no ideas on the table.

In Solidarity,

Your Joint Negotiating Committee – Tim Green, Martin Gusman, Jeff Fuke, Virginia Fritz, Heather Reier, and AFA Senior Staff Negotiator Paula Mastrangelo

Reserve Committee Meeting Recap – 1st Quarter 2025

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

  • Our AFA Reserve Committee Chairpersons met on Thursday, March 13, to discuss their ongoing program of work to represent and advocate for our Reserve Flight Attendants.
  • The Committee also met with management to review specific concerns that Flight Attendants brought forward.
  • Your Local Reserve Committee is available to answer questions, clarify contractual language, or help resolve reserve-related issues. Please don’t hesitate to reach out!

On Thursday, March 13, representatives from our AFA Local Reserve Committees met to discuss their ongoing work to advocate for Reserve Flight Attendants. Representing you at the meeting were Brandi Urban (ANC), Conner Gallagher (SEA), Anthony Eskander (PDX), Meghan Casey (SFO), Kanako Yamada (LAX), and Rebecca Garcia (SAN). Also present was MEC Reserve Committee Chairperson Julie Thornton and MEC Reserve Committee Vice Chairperson—New Hire & Probation Jarod McNeill.

The committee met with the Interim Managing Director of Inflight Crew Scheduling & Inflight Operations (South) Sara Cook and Manager of Inflight Crew Scheduling Goose Hlaingmyint.

The committee is next scheduled to meet on Thursday, June 19

Topics of Discussion

The committee reviewed several items during both internal AFA-only discussions and meetings with management. Some of the topics discussed include:

  • Plans for the initial training classes for the remainder of the year. Management has canceled Class 6 this year; however, they still plan to hire more Flight Attendants. The number of classes and the specific number of students in each class will depend on the delivery of new aircraft. Class 2 is scheduled to be online on April 1, and Class 3 will be online on May 1.
  • Staffing within Crew Scheduling: six new schedulers have been hired and are currently in training, bringing the total number of crew schedulers to 49.
  • A review of reserve utilization statistics shows approximately 87.1% utilization across all bases. Reserve coverage is expected to be around 18% in all bases, except for Seattle, where it is anticipated to be about 20% for Q2.
  • A discussion about new contractual provisions and their implications for reserve Flight Attendants.
  • Ongoing concerns regarding no-shows due to issues with cell phone providers and cell service. Please report these issues through the AFA Alaska Online Support Center so AFA representatives can follow up with management.

What The Committee Is Working On

  1. Developing Additional Tools & Resources for Reserve Flight Attendants. Working to update Reserve 101 & the Reserve survival guide with new CBA provisions.
  2. Assisting Probationary Flight Attendants Through the Reserve Buddy Program. Answering questions from and providing support to probationary Flight Attendants through an expanded AFA Reserve Buddy program. Also, developing a checklist of common topics that new hire Flight Attendants need assistance with within the first 30 days after graduation.
  3. Addressing Reserve Contractual Concerns. Researching and investigating reports from Reserve Flight Attendants and actively ensuring that management complies with our contract.

We Want to Hear From You!

Do you have feedback for the committee, concerns you’d like to share, or items you’d like brought up with management? Please let us know! Your Local Reserve Committee is your voice to management. You can open a support request on the AFA Alaska Online Support Center or contact us directly using the information on the Reserve Committee page of the AFA Alaska website.

SEA Domicile Negotiations Update – January 2026

The Hawaiian Seattle Domicile Negotiating Committee has reached an agreement with management, confirming the “Rescinding the Award” provision and extending the bid timeline by one week to Monday, January 19 at 2359 HT. As of January 7, a total of 189 Hawaiian Flight Attendants have submitted bids for the new SEA Domicile, primarily from HNL and LAX. Discussions about the moving day process are ongoing, with further updates expected before the revised bid deadline.

Using Apps to Support New Year Wellness Goals

The start of a new year often brings renewed goals around improved physical and mental well-being. Many people use apps to help with these goals. Here are some popular free wellness apps to try this year that can support your health, sleep, and daily routines. Most have strong free features, and some offer additional options […]

Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – December 2025

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants On Tuesday, December 16, 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 Heather Reier (ANC), Melinda Jorge (SEA), Melodie Anderes (PDX), […]

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