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AFA Alaska News in Review – February 7, 2025

In This Edition

Celebrating Black History Month

Originally posted February 1, 2025

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.

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Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – January 2025

Originally posted February 3, 2025

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!

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TA2 Virtual Q&A Recordings

Originally posted February 5, 2025

The first two of our Virtual Q&A Recordings have been posted: February 1 Virtual Q&A, February 3 Virtual Q&A. Additionally, all other TA2 resources can be found on the contract website TA2 resources page.

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TA2 Resource Recap

Originally posted February 7, 2025

Our final TA2 Virtual Q&A is today (Friday, February 7) at 3 PM PT. Please register in advance to attend. We have published multiple resources on the contract website over the past several weeks. Additionally, the Industry Comparison has been updated with TA2 information, and all TA1 Documents remain available for reference.

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Next Week’s Events

Monday, February 10Monthly Hotel Committee Meeting
Tuesday, February 11TA2 Voting Opens
Tuesday, February 11 – Wednesday, February 12Regular MEC Meeting
Thursday, February 13Quarterly Uniform Committee Meeting
Thursday, February 13Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Thursday, February 13Scheduling Review Board (SRB)

See the MEC Event Calendar >

Find Us on Social Media

You can find the most up-to-date official information on our AFA Alaska social media accounts.  Click below and follow so you can stay connected!

Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – January 2025

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

  1. 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. 
  2. 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. 
  3. 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. 
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.

AFA Alaska News in Review – January 31, 2025

In This Edition

TA2 Video Resources Now Available

Originally posted January 27, 2025

Last week, our Master Executive Council voted unanimously to release TA2 for membership ratification. The final text and supporting documents are available on the contract website and the following video resources were added today (and published on social media).

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Notice Regarding Boarding Pay Comparison Resources

Originally posted January 28, 2025

AFA International has expressed concerns that the Boarding Pay/Comparison resources may not accurately reflect industry comparisons and therefore we have unpublished several of these resources. Please note, this does not impact our own Boarding Pay or the dollar amounts we previously shared for each step of our scale.

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TA2 Updated Boarding Pay Comparison Resources

Originally posted January 28, 2025

We worked quickly to address the concerns expressed by AFA International and updated our Boarding Pay/Comparison resources. We have updated and republished the following resources: TA2 Summary Booklet, TA2 Roadshow Video,TA2 Compensation Graphics.

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Alaska-Hawaiian Merged MEC Officer Election Results

Originally posted January 29, 2025

The Alaska and Hawaiian Local Council Presidents and the respective MEC Officers from each airline met in person in San Francisco for the merged MEC Officer Elections. We’re pleased to announce the successful candidates of your Joint Master Executive Council (MEC) Officer team, effective March 1, 2025.

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TA2 Calculators Now Available 

Originally posted January 30, 2025

The following TA2 resources have been published for membership review: TA2 Retro Pay Calculator, TA2 Boarding Pay Calculator (AAG SSO required).

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

Originally posted January 31, 2025

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.

Read More >

Next Week’s Events

Monday, February 3TA2 Q&A Session (w/ the Negotiating Committee)
Wednesday, February 5TA2 Q&A Session (w/ the Negotiating Committee)
Thursday, February 6Scheduling Review Board (SRB)
Friday, February 7TA2 Q&A Session (w/ the Negotiating Committee)

See the MEC Event Calendar >

Find Us on Social Media

You can find the most up-to-date official information on our AFA Alaska social media accounts.  Click below and follow so you can stay connected!

AFA Alaska News in Review – January 17, 2025

In This Edition

It’s Time for a New Generation to Lead

Originally posted January 13, 2025

The MEC Officer elections for the merged MEC will occur on January 29th, effective March 1st. The candidate page is updated each workday by the Membership Department at afacwa.org/AlaskaHawaiian. After five terms, MEC President Jeff Peterson will not seek reelection, planning to return to the line on February 28th. His focus remains on setting up the new MEC President for success in JCBA negotiations starting in March. The ideal goal is to use a ratified TA2 as a foundation for further contractual improvements during JCBA negotiations.

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Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee Meeting Recap – 1st Quarter 2025

Originally posted January 14, 2025

On January 8, our AFA Air Safety, Health, and Security Committee (ASHSC) Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing work representing Flight Attendants’ interests in safety, health, and security. The committee met with management to receive updates and discuss issues faced by Flight Attendants onboard the aircraft. Reporting safety concerns is crucial in these challenging times. Use ReportIt! to file FAIR, ASAP, and fatigue reports. Contact your Local ASHSC if you need assistance.

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Building Resilience: A New Year’s Guide for Flight Attendants

Originally posted January 16, 2025

As a Flight Attendant, resilience is one of your greatest tools. The nature of the profession —long hours, irregular schedules, and dealing with diverse passenger needs—can be taxing. Building resilience ensures you can handle challenges effectively while maintaining your well-being. In addition to prioritizing your physical health, below are some often overlooked strategies to strengthen your resilience as we roll into the new year.

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Hotel Committee Meeting Recap – January 2025

Originally posted January 16, 2025

On January 13, our AFA Hotel Committee Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing work to protect and improve the quality of hotel accommodations and ground transportation providers for Flight Attendants. The Committee met with management to discuss current trends and concerns regarding layover hotels and transportation. If you encounter problems or have positive feedback about hotels or transportation, please report it through the feedback function in the MyCrewCare app. Your feedback is crucial as it provides the Committee with essential data to support keeping high-quality hotels and push for change when conditions are unacceptable.

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Resources For Those Affected By The Southern California Wildfires

Originally posted January 17, 2025

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.

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TA2 Update

Originally posted January 17, 2025

This week, our Negotiating Committee and management have been finalizing the language of the Agreement in Concept (AIC) reached last week. The Negotiating Committee expects to present the final text document to our Master Executive Council next week. The voting members of the MEC will then decide whether to release the agreement as TA2 for membership ratification.

Read More >

Next Week’s Events

None Scheduled 

See the MEC Event Calendar >

Find Us on Social Media

You can find the most up-to-date official information on our AFA Alaska social media accounts.  Click below and follow so you can stay connected!

2026 AFA Board of Directors Convention: What You Need To Know

Next week, our Master Executive Council (MEC) Officers, Local Executive Council (LEC) Presidents, and several other LEC Officers, Committee Chairpersons, and Committee Members will attend the 53rd Annual AFA Board of Directors (BOD) Convention in Portland, Oregon. They will join representatives from other AFA airlines to address our Union’s business at the international level. Watch […]

Hawaiian Flight Attendant Seattle Domicile Negotiations – March 2026 Update

Management currently requires Flight Attendants to provide proof of relocation to receive the flat-rate moving expense, a policy that the AFA is formally challenging through the grievance process. While this dispute is ongoing, Flight Attendants able to submit proof of relocation must submit two forms of documentation, such as a lease or updated driver’s license, within 60 days of transfer if they wish to be paid under management’s terms. The union continues to advocate for a fairer process and encourages members to keep records of all related interactions.

Joint Contract Negotiations Session 12 – February 2026

During this negotiation session, we made progress on Sections 15 (Leaves of Absence) and 22 (Expenses). The JNC advocated for positive developments from the Hawaiian CBA to strengthen our proposals. We also introduced our initial proposal for Section 28 (Domiciles) and remain committed to meaningful improvements in all areas of discussion.

Reminder: Don’t Miss Next Week’s MEC Town Hall!

Mark your calendar—Tuesday, March 3, is almost here! There’s still time to register for our Alaska + Hawaiian Town Hall and hear directly from your MEC Officers: MEC President Tim Green, MEC Vice President Brice McGee, and MEC Secretary-Treasurer Paul Ikioka. Join us for the latest updates and get answers to your questions. The Details What […]

Uniform Committee Meeting Recap – 1st Quarter 2026

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants On Thursday, February 19, our AFA Local Uniform Committee Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing work to represent Flight Attendants and push for improvements in the workplace. Representing you at the meeting were Kim Mazzolini (ANC), Dena Heath (SEA), Bob Moore (PDX), Lisa Mueller (SFO), Heather Holmes […]

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