MEC conference call earlier today
The Master Executive Council (MEC) held a conference call earlier today to discuss several issues currently of importance. It was a very productive call and we are now working our way through the action items that developed from our agenda. This is the first in a series of communications to update you on the latest developments.
New alcohol policy communication from AFA is pending
A communication has been drafted and is currently being reviewed by the full MEC. That communication will be out as soon as possible following approval.
Easter Weekend 2015 staffing
The MEC is pleased to see management very frankly addressed the staffing challenges for this weekend in the Inflight bulletin 2015-0093 “staffing issues due to system error” (sic) that was posted earlier today. To summarize, there is a glitch in eMaestro that allowed for trades out of closed days in Open Time. Jeppesen acknowledged the glitch during a conference call with Alaska Airlines management and AFA. Jeppesen has taken steps to correct the issue but at this time it is unknown if the glitch is completely resolved so troubleshooting continues.
Yes, it is true that Open Time was also left more open for April than usual. Many of you noticed this and even contacted AFA with your concerns. AFA definitely appreciates management’s efforts to keep the days more open but unfortunately this also probably contributed to the problem.
In fairness to management, there was no reasonable way for them to foresee the glitch. Based on adequate staffing going into Open Time Day it seemed like minimal risk to allow increased trading flexibility for April. All indications are that this weekend’s (and possibly next weekend’s) staffing shortage is mostly due to circumstances beyond the control of Alaska Airlines.
Luckily, many flight attendants have signed up for VJA so coverage is looking marginally adequate for now. There is always the possibility of management flying to prevent a cancellation and JA but we’re encouraged that these options will be unnecessary. Here’s hoping (or hopping?) to an uneventful Easter weekend 2015!
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In solidarity,
Your MEC—Jeffrey Peterson, Brian Palmer, Yvette Gesch, Becky Strachan, Laura Masserant, Cathy Gwynn, Sandra Morrow and Stephen Couckuyt
