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Grievance Win For Flight Attendants: Reinforcing Our Contractual Rights Under Sections 8.M and 8.D

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

A recent arbitration ruling has brought a significant victory that strengthens our rights under Sections 8.M and 8.D of our Collective Bargaining Agreement. This decision flows from Grievance 36-99-2-38-24 (Violation of §8.M) and Grievance Settlement 36-99-2-458-22 (Violation of §8.D Check In and Release).

What does this mean for you? The ruling clarifies that if you’ve waived your domicile rest, and your trip is operationally impacted such that your domicile rest is reduced to under 10 hours, Crew Scheduling cannot simply change your report time for the first leg/duty period of your second trip to meet CFR requirements before your duty period of your first trip has ended. 

Thanks to this ruling, Flight Attendants impacted by these circumstances can confidently exercise their rights under Section 8.M, including:

  • The ability to drop the second trip without pay protection.
  • The option to pick up the sequence at a SIP point or via deadhead (with duty limitations applying) if there is a nonstop flight with a legal ground connection and an available seat before the next flight in the sequence.
  • The option to work a mutually agreed-upon substitute assignment, though pay protection and premium per section 10.R.h.1 won’t apply.

This grievance was initially filed after management denied a Flight Attendant’s request to use these provisions back in September 2023. Following that, the Company wrongfully adjusted the check-in time for the Flight Attendant’s next assignment, violating our Collective Bargaining Agreement.

The arbitrator was clear: Alaska Airlines overstepped by altering the report time for the Flight Attendant’s second trip while their duty period on the first trip was still ongoing. Moving forward, such unilateral changes by the Company are off the table when a Flight Attendant has waived their contractual domicile rest.

Our Grievance Committee is thrilled with this outcome. We encourage you to reach out to your Local Grievance Committee with any questions. This ruling is not just a victory; it’s a crucial step in safeguarding our rights and ensuring compliance with our collective bargaining agreement. 

Navigating Uncertainty During Terrorism Alerts

As Flight Attendants, we are trained to stay calm in emergencies and act swiftly to protect our passengers and crew. But when terrorism alerts are raised—whether at home or abroad—the anxiety that comes with being away from your loved ones can feel overwhelming. It’s completely natural to feel unsettled or vulnerable in times like these. Here’s how to manage those feelings while staying grounded and resilient.

Acknowledge the Anxiety

The first step in coping is to acknowledge your emotions. You may be feeling nervous, on edge, or hyper-aware of your surroundings. These reactions are normal. You’re not alone and not weak for feeling them.

Lean on Your Training

You are not powerless. You are trained, capable, and prepared. Know the security measures put in place by your airline, airport authorities, and international agencies. Follow your safety checklists, and know that your presence onboard is an essential part of the safety net for everyone flying.

Stay Connected

Being away from home during uncertain times can intensify feelings of isolation. Make it a point to check in regularly with family or friends. Even a quick text or video chat can help you feel more anchored and supported. Let them know where you are and when you’ll next be in touch—it brings peace of mind to both sides.

Control What You Can

While you can’t control global events, you can control how you prepare and ground yourself. Don’t forget to:

  • Review emergency contact info and safety procedures.
  • Have a plan for communication with loved ones.
  • Limit exposure to distressing media coverage and co-worker speculations.   

Use Your Resources

Talking to someone who understands the demands of your job can be incredibly grounding. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your AFA EAP at (949) 470-0493. It’s confidential!!

Protect Your Peace

Finally, prioritize moments of calm. Whether it’s deep breathing on your layover, journaling your thoughts, or listening to music that soothes you—small acts of self-care are powerful. You deserve them.

AFA News in Review – July 4, 2025

In This Edition

  • Management’s Planned Hawaiian Airlines SEA Flight Attendant Domicile
  • Next Week’s Events

Management’s Planned Hawaiian Airlines Seattle Flight Attendant Domicile

Originally posted June 30, 2025

Management recently announced their intention to establish Hawaiian Airlines’ 787 Pilot and Flight Attendant bases in Seattle by early 2026. While this move aims to support Alaska Airlines’ international expansion, many questions remain about what will happen going forward.

Read More >

Next Week’s Events

No Scheduled Events 

See the MEC Event Calendar >

Management’s Planned Hawaiian Airlines Seattle Flight Attendant Domicile

Today, management announced plans to establish Hawaiian Airlines’ 787 Pilot and Flight Attendant bases in Seattle by early 2026. This move aims to enhance operational efficiencies for Alaska Airlines as it expands its international presence in the Seattle area. According to the terms of the Merger Transition Protocol Letter of Agreement, the Company is allowed to open Flight Attendant domiciles for either pre-merger carrier in the same city where the other pre-merger carrier has an existing domicile once it obtains a Single Operating Certificate (SOC), which is anticipated to be secured by the end of October.

It’s important to note that the Hawaiian Airlines Flight Attendant contract requires management to negotiate the terms for opening a new domicile in accordance with Section 6, Title I of the Railway Labor Act, as amended.

We recognize that this announcement may come as a surprise, and many of you may have questions about the implications going forward. Our Master Executive Council (MEC) is committed to keeping you informed throughout this process.

AFA News in Review – June 27, 2025

In This Edition

  • Reserve Committee Meeting Recap – 2nd Quarter 2025
  • When Screen Time Becomes Too Much
  • Take Action Now: Stop Cuts and Giveaway to Billionaires
  • Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – June 2025
  • Next Week’s Events

Reserve Committee Meeting Recap – 2nd Quarter 2025

Originally posted June 23, 2025 | Pre-Merger Alaska

Our Reserve Committee is addressing no-show issues related to communication problems with cell phone providers and advocating for relief as Reserve Flight Attendants are currently utilized at 94.1%. Check out the recap from last week’s meeting with management to learn about the work the Committee is doing to tackle these and other issues affecting Reserve Flight Attendants.

Read More >

When Screen Time Becomes Too Much

Originally posted June 25, 2025

In our hyper-connected world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of excessive screen time, often without even realizing it. Discover the warning signs of screen addiction and learn how to regain control for a healthier balance in your life.

Read More >

Take Action Now: Stop Cuts and Giveaway to Billionaires

Originally posted June 26, 2025

The Senate’s federal budget proposal threatens vital programs like Medicaid and Social Security, risking healthcare for millions and attacking labor rights. Learn how these cuts could devastate working families and what you can do to help.

Read More >

Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – June 2025

Originally posted June 26, 2025 | Pre-Merger Alaska

This month’s Scheduling Committee Meeting recap reveals updates on deadhead meal pre-orders, ongoing discussions about reassignment pay, and a significant increase in redeye routes across several bases. Dive into the full update for insights on pay inquiries and charter bidding challenges affecting Flight Attendants.

Read More >

Next Week’s Events

Thursday, July 3Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) (pmAS)

See the MEC Event Calendar >

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

On Wednesday, January 28, 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 Deb Wallstrom (ANC), David Lake (SEA), Kalin Lackey (PDX), Brad Young (SFO & MEC ASHSC Vice […]

AFA Alaska + Hawaiian MEC Town Hall: Join Us Tuesday, March 3

This is your opportunity to connect, share, and be heard! Join us at an AFA Alaska + Hawaiian MEC Town Hall on Tuesday, March 3. Get the latest AFA news and connect directly with our MEC Officers. Bring your questions—this is your chance to get answers directly from AFA Representatives. The Details What: AFA Alaska + […]

Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – January 2026

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants On Tuesday, January 27, 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), Rita Tillou (SEA), Melodie Anderes (PDX), […]

Celebrating Black History Month

February 1 marks the start of Black History Month in the United States—a vibrant celebration with roots dating back to 1925, when acclaimed historian Carter G. Woodson first introduced “Negro History Week” to highlight the remarkable achievements of Black individuals. In 1976, President Gerald R. Ford expanded it to Black History Month, calling on all […]

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

On this day, we pause to remember and honor the 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, […]

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