AFA Alaska

Representing the Flight Attendants of Alaska + Hawaiian

Click here to report an issue to AFA
You are here: Home / Latest News

Save the Dates

When:

AUG 5-7, 2017

Where:

SAN Airport

Time:

5:30 to 12:00

Why:

SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS – 2017 ENROLLMENT

National Group Protection (NGP) will be in the crew lounge to communicate the AFA supplemental benefit plans.  Please look for the NGP benefit counselor Joann Levandoski during the on-site enrollment to enroll or make changes to your existing coverage.  Note that you can enroll in any of the crew lounges, not just your base location.

  • Accident Insurance
  • Critical Illness Coverage (NEW PLAN!)
  • Whole Life Insurance

They have enhanced the Critical Illness plan, members who are currently enrolled can lower their rates while improving the covered illness. Please take the time to sit down with a benefit counselor and review your options. Lower rates and more covered illnesses.  This is also an excellent time to make sure you have filed for your annual health screening benefits, which are part of the accident and critical illness benefit plans.

 

  • Supplemental – these plans supplement any existing coverage
  • Voluntary – members choose to participate
  • Limited Underwriting – no medical or physical exams required
  • Family Coverage – available with all of the plans
  • Portable – members can continue coverage if they leave the company
  • Payroll Deduction – premiums are paid through payroll deduction

If you have any questions regarding the upcoming enrollment, please contact National Group Protection (NGP) at 800-344-9016.

SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS – 2017 ENROLLMENT

From August 14th—16th, National Group Protection (NGP) will be in the crew lounge in Portland to communicate the AFA supplemental benefit plans.  Please look for the NGP benefit counselors during the on-site enrollment to enroll or make changes to your existing coverage.  Note that you can enroll in any of the crew lounges, not just your base location.

 

  • Accident Insurance
  • Critical Illness Coverage (NEW PLAN!)
  • Whole Life Insurance

 

We have enhanced the Critical Illness plan—lower rates and more covered illnesses.  Please take the time to sit down with a benefit counselor and review your options.  This is also an excellent time to make sure you have filed for your annual health screening benefits, which are part of the accident and critical illness benefit plans.

  • Supplemental – these plans supplement any existing coverage
  • Voluntary – members choose to participate
  • Limited Underwriting – no medical or physical exams required
  • Family Coverage – available with all of the plans
  • Portable – members can continue coverage if they leave the company
  • Payroll Deduction – premiums are paid through payroll deduction

If you have any questions regarding the upcoming enrollment, please contact National Group Protection (NGP) at 800-344-9016.

The AFA Alaska-Virgin America Joint Negotiating Committee just finished several days of collective bargaining with management; we met from Tuesday, August 8th through Thursday, August 10th in Seattle, WA. This is our second merger negotiations session, with the first held back in June. (See “AFA Alaska-Virgin America Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC) Prepares to Meet with Management This Week” for more information.) Representing management: Vice President of Labor Relations Greg Mays, Outgoing Vice President of Alaska Airlines Inflight & Call Center Services Andy Schneider (and now incoming vice president of People), Managing Director of Labor Relations-Air Elizabeth Ryan and Virgin America Manager of Labor Emily Kimmel.

As AFA indicated in our Merger Negotiations Session #1 Update – June 2017, merger negotiations are a different process than regular negotiations. These talks are not under the jurisdiction of the National Mediation Board or Section 6 of the Railway Labor Act, and neither side believes that the entire contract is open for discussion. Discussions are focusing on a short list of items, and all the provisions in the AFA Alaska contract (scheduled pay raises, etc.) will continue in force.

Virgin America JFK Flight Attendant Base Closure

While the JNC discussed several transition items, the bulk of our time was spent reviewing the Virgin America (VX) Flight Attendant JFK base closure packet with management. VX Director of Inflight Valerie Jenkins and Inflight Project Manager John Maze joined us for much of those discussions by conference call. AFA Council 35 Virgin America President Melissa Osborne also actively participated by phone.

The JNC and President Osborne asked many questions and the parties exchanged a lot of information as we advocated for the JFK Flight Attendants. The JNC and President Osborne were able to achieve some modifications to the relocation package offered by management and to clarify language in the related Q&A document. The parties agreed it would be best for management to hold off on publishing some details about relocation travel until next week. This is in order to give management more time to fully develop the program and to consider several requests by AFA and our members.

Virgin America Flight Attendant Commuter Policy

Management and the JNC drafted a letter of agreement (LOA) that allows for a trial implementation of a commuter policy for Virgin America Flight Attendants beginning in October. (See “[VX] Virgin America Flight Attendant Work Rule Improvements – Part 3” for more information.) The parties used the “Get Going Policy” from the Transport Workers Union of America (TWU) Tentative Agreement as a template with some slight modifications, coupled with a third reserve availability period (RAP) from 8am – 8pm for Short Call Reserve (SCR). Management needed some extra time past the end of our session yesterday to review the final draft, but we do not anticipate this to take more than another workday or so, which will take us into next week. Once again, AFA would be remiss if we did not acknowledge the efforts of our sisters and brothers on the TWU VX negotiating team for providing the basis for the VX F/A Commuter Policy LOA.

Prior to implementation of this LOA, AFA will poll the Virgin America Flight Attendants to determine if the majority wishes to ‘test drive’ a commuter policy that is paired with a third SCR RAP. The initial survey will help guide the Master Executive Council officers in their decision whether or not to ratify the LOA. If we do trial the Commuter Policy and third SCR RAP, AFA will again poll the VX F/As in November to gauge membership satisfaction with the trial. AFA then has an opportunity to end the trial just in case it proves to be unpopular.

Information regarding the survey and the full text of the VX F/A Commuter Policy Letter of Agreement is now anticipated early next week, which is just slightly later than originally indicated in the last commuter policy update. AFA will continue our efforts to get this out to the Virgin America Flight Attendants as soon as possible.

Transition Issues Discussed

The JNC received several responses from management on prior information requests. We also had a very helpful and productive meeting with Alaska Director of Retirement Services Chrystie Dickens and Retirement Benefits Analyst Jaime Smalley to discuss the intricacies of merging the Alaska (AS) and Virgin America Flight Attendant 401(k) plans. Merging the two is a complicated multi-step process that must be completed within the guidelines of IRS regulations and other applicable laws. Finally, we consulted with Virgin America Crew Payroll Supervisor Peter Silberstein regarding the differences between VX and AS vacation accrual.

* * *

This negotiations session set the parties up for getting into more detailed discussions about specific transitional items next time. In the interim, each side has ‘homework assignments’ to make the time between sessions more productive. Merger Negotiations Session #3 is scheduled for September 12-14, 2017, in Seattle, WA.

Finally, the JFK Flight Attendants were constantly in our thoughts this week. Our hearts go out to each and every one of you, and the JNC will continue to seek any means possible to reduce the impact on you and all your families affected by this base closure.

In Solidarity,

Your JNC – MEC President Jeffrey Peterson, Jennifer Wise MacColl, Jamie Cogen, Lindsey Steele and AFA Senior Staff Negotiator Paula Mastrangelo

Earlier today, Virgin America (VX) management announced that the JFK Flight Attendant base would close effective November 1, 2017. The announcement of this closure will have a significant impact on the lives of our JFK-based Flight Attendants. At the same time, this will also have a ripple effect throughout the system on the way VX pairings are built in the near term and will impact downline Alaska pairings as well.

AFA and management have been in discussions to reduce the impact of the base closure on the JFK-based Flight Attendants and to implement accommodations that will make the transition easier. Paid moving expenses, positive-space travel for commuters, commuting stipends and other provisions will help to facilitate the transfer to new bases. No one will be furloughed and management has assured us that they will do their best to ensure that each JFK Flight Attendant will be accommodated at the VX base of her or his choice.

Management has established a timeline for transitioning JFK-based Flight Attendants to either SFO or LAX. Management and AFA worked on a packet of information that includes this timeline and relocation/commuter provisions. This packet has been sent via FedEx to each JFK-based Flight Attendant.

Click here for the Q&A document included in the packet >>

Your Master Executive Council (MEC) officers, your Local Council 35 officers and the Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC) members are working together to offer support and assistance. JFK-based Flight Attendants should feel free to contact your Local Council 35 officers at vx@afaalaska.org or call them at (206) 457-2010, extension 10 with any questions or if you need assistance navigating this process.

We understand how disruptive this announcement is for JFK Flight Attendants, and we are here for you in this difficult time.

In Solidarity,

Your Council 35 officers – Melissa & James

Your MEC – Jeffrey Peterson, Brian Palmer, Linda Christou, Lisa Pinkston, Terry Taylor, Mario de’Medici, Melissa Osbourne, Tim Green and Brice McGee

Your JNC – MEC President Jeffrey Peterson, Jennifer Wise MacColl, Jamie Cogen, Lindsey Steele and AFA Senior Staff Negotiator Paula Mastrangelo

 

 

Tomorrow is August 10 (8-10), our Online Day of Action to keep our rest and jobs in front of Congress. Our representatives need to take action now to enact 10 hours irreducible rest for Flight Attendants and protect good U.S. aviation jobs.

Have you signed up for Twitter yet? Twitter is an effective platform to connect with our legislators and we’ve made it simple for you to sign up and participate.

Click here to get started.

Tomorrow, go to afacwa.org/8-10. This page will direct you to take action by tweeting at members of Congress and making calls for 10 hours rest and good U.S. aviation jobs.

8/10 Day of Action Checklist:

  1. Create a Twitter Account.
  2. Like AFA on Facebook and follow AFA on Twitter.
  3. Schedule 15 min on your calendar tomorrow to to make a difference.
  4. Spread the word with your flying partners.

To create a Twitter account:

  1. Go to http://twitter.com and find the sign up box, or go directly to https://twitter.com/signup.
  2. Enter your full name, phone number, and a password.
  3. Click Sign up for Twitter.
  4. In order to verify your phone number, Twitter will send you an SMS text message with a code. Enter the verification code in the box provided.
  5. Once you’ve clicked Sign up for Twitter, you can select a username (usernames are unique identifiers on Twitter) — type your own or choose one Twitter has suggested. Twitter will tell you if the username you want is available.
  6. Double-check your name, phone number, password, and username.
  7. Click Create my account. You may be asked to complete a Captcha to let Twitter know that you’re human.
  8. Follow @afa_cwa on Twitter.
  9. Add a profile picture to ensure people know you’re a real person and not a bot.

Thank you in advance for participating!

In Solidarity,

Your MEC – Jeffrey Peterson, Brian Palmer, Linda Christou, Lisa Pinkston, Terry Taylor, Mario de’Medici, Melissa Osborne, Tim Green, Brice McGee; and MEC Government Affairs Committee Chairperson Krystle Berry

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

Maternity Grievance

AFA is pleased to announce that the Company recently sustained Grievance 36-99-2-24-17 (Violation of Section 15.M.1.a & 2.a Failure to Allow Minimum Coordination While on Maternity Leave).

What does this mean for Flight Attendants?  Flight Attendants may coordinate the minimum amount of sick leave or vacation with their Maternity Leave, beginning either 6 weeks (vaginal birth) or 8 weeks (Caesarian birth) post-delivery through 120 days post-delivery per sections 15.M.1.a and 2.a of the Flight Attendant CBA.  The application of this contractual provision has been inconsistent at best.  This sustained grievance provides that the Company agrees to comply with the contractual language.

If you initially requested minimum coordination from 6/8 weeks post-delivery to 120 post-delivery and were denied, it may be possible to retroactively switch from maximum coordination to minimum coordination if you repay the difference between your requested minimum sick leave or vacation and the amount you were required to use (including taxes).  If it occurred in a prior year, you may need to file an amended tax return.  If you coordinated with either minimum or maximum sick leave or vacation during this specific time period, you were eligible for insurance at the active employee rate.  If you paid for COBRA coverage, you may be eligible for a refund.

If you are affected by the outcome of this grievance and need assistance on how to proceed, please contact the MEC Grievance Committee at grievance@afaalaska.org.

Social Media

AFA has noticed an increase in discipline derived from social media postings.  Please be responsible with your postings to protect yourself.  Even if you think your settings are private, posts are still making their way to supervisors—sometimes from other Flight Attendants.  Familiarize yourself with the Company’s social media policy so as not to put yourself at risk of possible discipline.  You can find a summary of this policy at http://splash.alaskasworld.com/documents/social_media_policy.asp (Alaska sign-on required).

Co-Worker Concerns

If you experience a concern or conflict with a co-worker, please contact your Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee rather than management.  EAP/Professional Standards Committee Members are fellow Flight Attendants who receive special training on resolving these issues.  If the concern goes directly to management, it will almost always lead to discipline/termination for your fellow Flight Attendant.

You can always find Professional Standards contact information on the EAP/Professional Standards Committee page of the AFA Alaska website.

Union Representation

You are entitled to AFA representation when you have a discussion or meeting with management and the possibility of discipline exists for you, another Flight Attendant or another employee. If a supervisor contacts you, you have a right to ask, “Could this conversation result in discipline?”  If so, we recommend that you tell the supervisor that you would like an AFA representative before having any further discussion.  The supervisor should provide you with the name and phone number for your Local Executive Council (LEC) President.  Regardless of whether there is a possibility of discipline, you can always contact your Local Grievance Committee for AFA representation.  You can find contact information for your Local Grievance Committee on the AFA Alaska website.

Representation While on Probation

Probationary Flight Attendants may also ask for an AFA representative to be present in a supportive (non-representational) role.  Again, if you are asked to provide a written statement or account of events, you are always entitled to confer with an AFA representative prior to doing so; this is also true for probationary Flight Attendants.

Requests by Supervisors for Supporting Documentation

Recently, AFA has noticed an uptick in management requesting additional information to help support statements provided by Flight Attendants during investigatory meetings.  These requests by supervisors have included credit card or bank statements, phone or messaging records, and names/contact information of non-employees (babysitters, roommates, or others).

If at any time a supervisor or manager asks a Flight Attendant for additional documentation such as the items mentioned above, you should decline the request and contact a Grievance Committee Member or LEC Officer immediately.

DOT Drug Testing

Testing on Layovers

The Company has recently increased the amount of drug testing that is being conducted after completing a duty period mid-sequence/on layovers.  They are required to provide transportation to/from the hotel on a layover.  Drug abatement should be pre-arranging additional transportation for the Flight Attendant as they know they are going to be conducting the test in advance.

Proposed Changes to Drug Testing

The US Department of Transportation (DOT) has issued a notice that it is proposing to add four commonly prescribed medications to its testing program.  These 4 medications fall under a category of drugs known as opioids.   They include Hydrocodone, Hydromorphone , Oxycodone, and Oxymorphone.  The new DOT rule is projected to take effect sometime after October 1, 2017.  You can find more information about the proposed changes in a July 13 AFA communication entitled IMPORTANT: Changes To Airline Drug Testing.

Trip Trading

The Jeppesen Crew Access (JCA) trading system continues to experience programming challenges.  One ongoing issue with the system is the inability for Flight Attendants to see their own trip trade/grab post in the trip pool.  Because Flight Attendants cannot see their posted grabs or trades, sometimes the trips are unintentionally posted in the wrong trade classification (trade v. grab) with no way to verify that the post is incorrect.

Please note if a trip is posted for trade with no comments, common sense would dictate that it was likely intended to be posted as a grab.  If there is a question, please be considerate of your fellow Flight Attendants and reach out via phone or email before making a trade.

Questions?

For further questions, contact one of your LEC Officers.  Contact information for your LEC Officers can be found on your Local Council page of the AFA Alaska website.

In Solidarity,

Your MEC – Jeffrey Peterson, Brian Palmer, Linda Christou, Lisa Pinkston, Terry Taylor, Mario de’Medici, Melissa Osborne, Tim Green, Brice McGee and MEC Grievance Committee Chairperson Stephanie Adams

PDX AFA VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Applications are Being Accepted for

Local Council 39 Portland Committee Positions

If you are interested in serving on a committee, please review the requirements below and email your committee letter of interest and resume to pdx@afaalaska.orgby midnight on August 18, 2017.

Flight attendants must be current on dues and maintain their member in good standing status. Probationary flight attendants may volunteer; once they start paying union dues.

Committee Requirements 

  • Regularly work 40+ TFP
  • No intention of transferring from Portland in the near future.
  • Considerable knowledge and adherence to Service Standards.
  • Understand that this is a volunteer and not a paid position. There may be occasions for flight pay loss for meetings or projects.
  • Professional in manner with Management and Flight Attendants.
  • Adhere to committee policies, procedures, and standards of ethical conduct.
  •  Maintain confidentiality of sensitive and personal information.
  • Be an advocate and support for all flight attendants.
  • Ability to communicate by email, phone, and in-person with Flight Attendants and Alaska Management.
  • Working knowledge of the Current Bargaining Agreement.
  • Some positions require knowledge of scheduling, pay, work rules, and duties.
  • Receive guidance from AFA Officers and Committee Chair.
  • Commit to volunteering for a minimum of one year.
  • Provide information promptly and meet occasional deadlines.
  • Must sign a Willingness to Serve Commitment

 

Committee Descriptions

Air Safety Health Security http://afaalaska.org/ashsc

ASHSC acts in an advisory role to the LEC Officers on safety matters. Studies local air safety and health problems and prepares recommendations to the LEC Officers for consideration. The committee reviews and handles correspondence keeping the members informed of developments. You may be asked to attend management debriefings regarding safety related issues.

Benefits http://afaalaska.org/benefits#purpose

The Benefits Committee works to educate and provide assistance to in all matters involving benefits (including insurance, maternity, worker’s compensation, and leave of absence programs)

Employee Assistance http://afaalaska.org/eap

The EAP is a support service provided by Flight Attendants for Flight Attendants. EAP peer representatives are trained to provide three distinct, but interrelated, services that include assessment, support, and referral. The EAP also handles professional standards and critical incident response.

Government Affairs http://afaalaska.org/governmentaffairs

The Government Affairs Committee’s responsibility is to monitor and pursue legislative activities that relate to the AFA-CWA political agenda and to build positive relationships with candidates for office and elected officials regardless of party.

Grievance http://afaalaska.org/grievance

The Grievance Committee’s is responsible for the protection of Flight Attendants against arbitrary and unjust disciplinary action and the upholding of the collective bargaining agreement.

Hotel http://afaalaska.org/hotel

The Hotel Committee investigates complaints regarding hotels and transportation and periodically inspects layover hotels for any decline in quality. The committee surveys potential hotels and attempts to eliminate or avoid any possible problems.

Inflight Service http://afaalaska.org/inflightservice

The Inflight Service Committee represents Flight Attendant interests regarding catering and inflight service/sales and addresses complaints and concerns regarding catering and inflight service/sales.

Retirement http://afaalaska.org/retirement

The Retirement Committee assists members with questions regarding retirement, 401(k) plans, and other investment vehicles that may become available and keep members up-to-date and educated about these programs.

Scheduling http://afaalaska.org/scheduling

The Scheduling Committee assists Flight Attendants with concerns relating to pairings or scheduling including legalities.

Uniform http://afaalaska.org/uniform

The Uniform Committee is responsible for ensuring contract language compliance in the area of uniforms. The Committee represents Flight Attendant interests to management regarding design, fabric selection, and other details.

AFA Council 39 Information http://afaalaska.org/pdx

An applicant cannot be guaranteed an interview. Resumes and letters of interest will be screened for qualifications, and successful applicants will be invited to interview.

In Solidarity,

LEC Council 39 Officers

Mario de”Medici, Krystle Berry, Alan Sousa

August Activities

Council #19 President Terry Taylor and Secretary-Treasurer Adam Clarey are attending the CWA Convention in Pittsburgh, August 6-9.  Council Representatives Megan Brown and Melinda Jorge, along with newly elected Portland officers, will be attending the final session of AFA New Officer training this month.  Later this month, they will also be joining many local EAP Representatives at the annual  FADAP Conference.  For more information regarding FADAP, see https://www.fadap.org/.

 

 

Showing our Unity for our Fellow Airline Family Members

On August 4th, Council #19 Officers and members joined Alaska and Virgin Pilots, at a Unity Rally in support of their ongoing contract arbitration.  It was great to see many AFA members in line!

Mesa Flight Attendants are still bargaining for a better contract and will be returning to the bargaining table August 14-16. AFA is asking for every AFA Local Council to leaflet August 7-11 in a huge push to support Mesa bargaining.

We are asking for volunteers to help distribute leaflets  to raise awareness of the problems Mesa Flight Attendants have been facing. Mesa operates many regional flights for United and America Airlines. Mesa Flight Attendants are some of the lowest paid in the industry.  Many are being paid close to the Federal minimum wage.

Mesa Pilots have ratified their agreement. Now it is time for Mesa Flight Attendants!

 

Show some AFA solidarity!

When: August 11th

Where: SeaTac Sky Bridges 1,2,3,5,6

Time: 5-9am and 4:30-8:30pm

 

Text or call: Kris Mason, 626/260-0497; or email Megan.Brown@afaalaska.org or Melinda.Jorge@afaalaska.org if you are available to support our Mesa Flight Attendants

 

Changes to DOT Drug Testing Protocols

As a reminder, several synthetic opioids that are fairly commonly prescribed are being added to the DOT Drug Testing Protocols sometime after October 2017.   If you are taking these prescribed medications, , please contact a local EAP Committee member for additional information and resources about these upcoming changes. The following will be added to the testing panel:

  • Hydrocodone (example: Vicodin, Lortab, Maxidone, Norco, Sydone)
  • Hydromorphone (example: Diluadid, Exalgo, Hydromorph Contin, Palladone)
  • Oxycodone (example: Percocet, Percodan, OxyContin, Roxicodone, Endocet, Xtampza, OxyIR)
  • Oxymorphone (example: Opana, Numorphan)

 

New Committee Members

The Council #19 Safety Health and Security Committee welcomes returning Committee Member David Lake, who will be rejoining the committee on September 1.  His prior experience as a Local and MEC Committee member will be a valuable addition.

We would also like to welcome Jay Styger to the Council #19 Government Affairs Committee.  Jay’s interest in local and national issues will make him a great asset to the committee.

 

Are you EXHAUSTED???? Help us do something about it!

We work in a heavily regulated industry.   As a Flight Attendant, almost every aspect of our daily work lives are dictated by federal laws.  Our elected representatives often don’t realize the extent to which these laws impact Flight Attendants.  For example, how little “rest” we actually receive when rest is reduced to the CFR minimum of 8 hours, which typically follows an extended duty period.  On August 10, we are asking our members to take action to ‘tweet’ our representatives to support a ten hour minimum overnight rest period.  Click below to see how easy it will be to share your voice.

http://www.afacwa.org/take_action_storm_the_airwaves_on_8_10

 

Scheduling, Reserve and JCA (CrewAccess) Issues

Are you experiencing any issues with JCA (CrewAccess)? Having schedule or reserve issues? The fastest way to get these issues resolved is to report it on the AFA Support website: http://support.afaalaska.org.

Please fill out the form completey so we can fully resarch your concerns and assist you. Screen shots and as much information as you can provide is very helpul!

 

AFA Alaska Information at your Fingertips!!

Are you getting the most up to date information from AFA Alaska? There are lots of ways to stay in the loop!

Make sure to “like” us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AFA-Council-19-Seattle-538630496190284/

Subscribe to Council 19 text messages: https://www.remind.com/join/sea19

 

In Solidarity,

Your Council #19 Officers

Terry Taylor, Jake Jones, Adam Clarey, Megan Brown & Melinda Jorge

 

This message is for pre-merger Virgin America Flight Attendants

AFA met with the Virgin America leadership team (management) and Alaska Airlines management on Thursday, August 3rd in Seattle, WA as follow up to the past two Virgin America Flight Attendant Work Rule Improvements discussions over the last several months (click here and here for more information). Representing the Virgin America (VX) leadership team: Vice President of Inflight & Guest Services Jeff Butler, Managing Director of Inflight Valerie Jenkins, Inflight Project Manager John Maze and CSS Supervisor Andrew Barnes; representing Alaska Airlines: Vice President of Inflight & Call Center Services Andy Schneider; representing both carriers: Managing Director of Labor Relations-Air Elizabeth Ryan; and representing the Association of Flight Attendants: MEC President Jeffrey Peterson, Council 35 VX President Melissa Osborne and Senior Staff Negotiator Paula Mastrangelo. It turned out to be a very productive session.

Commuter Policy

AFA is happy to report that the parties successfully negotiated a long-anticipated commuter policy. AFA and management agreed to a 4-month trial period to see how the policy affects the operation and to observe whether Flight Attendants are benefitting from the program. To ‘fund’ this policy, management required changes to the reserve program. We believe the changes could potentially enhance reserve life, however we would like members’ input prior to entering into a letter of agreement (LOA) that would change your work rules.

Consequently, we will be asking for you to participate in a brief survey regarding your interest in implementing the commuter policy. Once AFA publishes the full text language of the proposed LOA next week, please review the LOA and provide your feedback in the survey that will follow. Time is of the essence because we would like to have the policy in place by October 1st, which means CSS will need to complete the programming changes before September 1st. Stay tuned for an update very soon.

Relaxing Hair Standards

Management has agreed to allow current Alaska Flight Attendant hair standards to be adopted at VX. With the manual revision due on Oct 21st, VX Flight Attendants will be able to enjoy more relaxed hair standards.

Pass Travel and Jumpseats

Additionally, with the manual revision due on Oct 21st, you will see improvements to the VX jumpseating policy. VX Flight Attendants will be able to pass ride in the jumpseat out of uniform. You will also be able to nap and to use the InFlight Entertainment (IFE) and personal electronic devices while commuting or deadheading in uniform while sitting in a guest seat.

Crossing Seatbelts

Management continues to affirm the requirement to cross and clean seatbelts will change by the end of the year.

Aviation Safety Action Program (ASAP) for VX

The ASAP program is a self-reporting program administered in partnership with the FAA in order to provide flight crews the ability to self-report incidents without fear of discipline. AFA and management have been discussing an ASAP program for VX since the last interim work rule improvements meeting on June 2nd, and the parties progressed further towards making it a reality this time. Programming is the biggest challenge causing the delay, but with the new IMDs arriving we are seeing ASAP implementation as a definite possibility in the near future. Look for updates on this important program.

Pelesys E-learning Pay

Management agreed to pay for recently unpaid Pelesys modules, including security and OPL, but advised AFA that changes will be forthcoming. In the meantime, check your mid-month ADP pay statements for your e-learning pay.

Personal Electronic Device (PED) Policy Update

In only a few more weeks, VX Flight Attendants will be under the AS PED policy. As you know, the policy lives in the manual and is tied into the revision cycle. With the distribution of the new IMDs, VX will be given a special PED bulletin, which will include the AS PED policy. Until then, please keep in mind that the VX PED policy regarding personal use is still very much in effect.

If you have any questions, contact your Local Council 35 officers.

In Solidarity,

Your MEC – Jeffrey Peterson, Brian Palmer, Linda Christou, Lisa Pinkston, Terry Taylor, Mario de’Medici, Melissa Osborne, Tim Green and Brice McGee

Your Council 35 Officers – Melissa & James

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

Background

The MEC Chairperson of the Scheduling Committee is responsible for coordinating the activities of the committee at the airline level. The Chairperson works closely with each Local Committee Chairperson to gather feedback and input and represents the positions of the Committee and MEC in interactions with management.

Additional Information from the MEC Policy Manual

Scheduling Committee

1.  SCOPE

a.  The Scheduling Committee is responsible for the following:

(i)  The committee will recommend and assist in constructing pairings and building sequences of trips and days off into monthly lines of time.

(ii)  The committee will work to monitor company compliance with all scheduling-related provisions of the collective bargaining agreement and take necessary steps to correct violations

2.  POLICY/RESPONSIBILITIES

a.  The MEC Scheduling Committee shall consist of the MEC Scheduling Committee Chairperson, the MEC Scheduling Committee Vice Chairperson—PBS, the MEC Scheduling Committee Vice Chairperson—Pairing Construction, and the Local Scheduling Committee Chairperson from each council.

b.  The MEC Chairperson shall:

(i)  Provide clear direction and coordination to Local Scheduling Committees and each MEC Subcommittee

(ii)  Communicate with the Local Scheduling Committee Chairpersons, LEC Presidents, and MEC Officers on a daily basis on his/her activities and matters requiring attention, follow up, or escalation

(iii)  Compose informational and educational articles of interest to the membership and provide them to the MEC Communications Chairperson to be included in MEC communications and posted to the MEC website

c.  Flight Attendant Schedules

(i)  Discuss scheduling problems with the company and will report such problems and resultant discussions to the MEC

(ii)  Maintain written records of agreed upon standards and procedures and shall report to the MEC any proposed or imposed modifications to such practices.

(iii)  Monitor the company throughout the scheduling process for any perceived or potential violations of the Agreement and shall identify these violations to the LEC President of the domicile affected.

(iv)  Comply at all times with the applicable provisions of the current collective bargaining agreement.

d.  Staffing

(i)  Monitor monthly staffing reports and make recommendations to the company for appropriate resolution.

(ii)  Monitor placement of flying and provide the MEC with evaluations of such placement and its justification.

(iii)  Compile feedback and relay it to the MEC

(iv)  Use domicile feedback to work with the company in resolving the Union’s problems and concerns.

(v)  Monitor staffing statistics and, where appropriate, establish trends of chronic understaffing for current and future use.  Use all information available to eliminate understaffing.

e.  Placement of Flying

(i)  The MEC Scheduling Committee in conjunction with the MEC Reserve Committee Chairperson will review placement of flying with the intent of resolving the problems that generate such placement.

(ii)  Should specific causes be established, the MEC Scheduling Committee shall work with the company to resolve the Union’s concerns provided that such action does not otherwise negatively impact the Flight Attendants, i.e. surplus, or excessively low block time.

…

5.  SCHEDULING REVIEW BOARD

a.  The Scheduling Review Board (“Board”) shall consist of the MEC President (or designee), MEC Scheduling Committee Chairperson (or designee with the concurrence of the MEC), and Director of Inflight Crew Scheduling (or designee). Additional guests may be invited and participate as needed.

b.  The Board shall meet at least every two weeks to address and resolve disagreements between the union and the company pertaining to any subject relating to Flight Attendant schedules or actions of the Inflight Crew Scheduling Department.

c.  The Board may meet either in person at a mutually agreed location, by telephone conference call, or by other electronic means of communication.

d.  Items for inclusion in the agenda shall be provided to all members of the Board at least twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the scheduled meeting to allow time for proper research and preparation. Items submitted within 24 hours of the scheduled meeting will be placed on the agenda of the following meeting, except by mutual agreement.

e.  Any item that cannot be resolved to the satisfaction of the members of the Board will be forwarded to the MEC Grievance Committee for escalation

Qualifications

  • Robust working knowledge of scheduling provisions of the Flight Attendant collective bargaining agreement.
  • Knowledge of CFRs and other regulations pertaining to flight time, duty time, and crew rest guidelines.
  • Ability to maintain office hours in Seattle during the business week and attend meetings as required.
  • Strong computer skills. Excellent working knowledge of Jeppesen Crew Access (JCA, NavBlue PBS, Google email, and Microsoft Office.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to write membership communications, respond professionally to internal and external e-mail, prepare reports, and plan meetings agendas and take minutes.
  • Ability to meet deadlines, delegate responsibilities, and follow up on assigned tasks.

Duties

  • Provide assistance and guidance to Local Scheduling Committee Chairpersons in handling scheduling-related concerns and issues. Assist in resolution of issues as needed.
  • Attend meetings with management and represent the AFA position on scheduling-related matters.
  • Participate in the Scheduling Review Board process.
  • Oversee the activities of the PBS and Pairing Construction subcommittees.
  • Schedule, plan, and conduct monthly meetings of the committee and other meetings and conference calls as needed.
  • Coordinate with the MEC Reserve Committee Chairperson to discuss issues that affect both reserve and lineholding Flight Attendants.
  • Correspond with the Local Scheduling Committee Chairpersons and MEC regularly to provide status updates. Prepare and send a monthly committee report to the MEC.

Time Commitment and Flight Pay Loss Reimbursement

  • This position is budgeted for 100 TFP of Flight Pay Loss (FPL) per month in accordance with section 27.P.2.b of the CBA, paid with a 5% override at “A” pay.
  • Time commitment is approximately four days per week in Seattle with additional work completed remotely or in the office as necessary. No relocation or accommodation expense is provided for this position.
  • The MEC Scheduling Committee Chairperson does not bid a line.

Working Relationships

With The Scheduling Committee

Constant interaction with the Local Scheduling Service Committee Chairpersons. Frequent interaction with Local Scheduling Committee Members.

With The Master Executive Council

This position reports to the Master Executive Council. The MEC executive sponsor for the committee is the MEC President.

With Alaska Airlines Management

Constant interaction with inflight management, particularly the Director of Inflight Crew Scheduling (Denia Pisia), Director of Crew Planning & Resource Allocation (Chad Koehnke), Inflight Crew Planners (Kelly Yeager and Sabrina Blevins)

Expressing Interest and Interview Scheduling

  • The MEC will hold interviews during the August MEC meeting on Tuesday, August 29.
  • Interviews will be at the AFA Alaska MEC office in Seattle.
  • Submit a declaration of interest and resume to MEC Secretary-Treasurer Linda Christou at linda.christou@afaalaska.org no later than 5 PM Pacific Time on Friday, August 18, 2017. Linda will be able to provide additional information regarding transportation and booking of flights if necessary.

 

In Solidarity,

Your MEC – Jeffrey Peterson, Brian Palmer, Linda Christou, Lisa Pinkston, Terry Taylor, Mario de’Medici, Melissa Osborne, Tim Green and Brice McGee

Human Rights & Equity Committee Meeting Recap – 3rd Quarter 2025

On Tuesday, September 16, 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 Nyachan Chuar (ANC), LaLa Davis (LAX-pmAS), Bruni Agosto-Pinal (LAX-pmHA), Aaron Miller (PDX), Erika Daniel (SAN), and Trista Vanta (SFO). […]

AFA News in Review – September 19, 2025

In This Edition Celebrating Hispanic-Latinx Heritage Month Originally posted September 15, 2025 Join us in celebrating Hispanic-Latinx Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15, a time dedicated to honoring the vibrant cultures and significant contributions of Hispanic-Latinx Americans. Discover the history, participate in special events, and grab your commemorative Hispanic-Latinx Heritage Month AFA Pin […]

Pre-Merger Alaska MEC Committee Election Results

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants During this week’s MEC Meeting, our MEC held interviews for the first group of pre-merger Alaska MEC Committee positions to be elected for the upcoming MEC Officer term. We want to thank everyone who expressed interest in the available positions and their willingness to serve. After careful […]

Merged MEC Committee Chairperson Election Results

This message is for both pre-merger Alaska and Hawaiian Flight Attendants During this week’s MEC Meeting, our MEC held interviews for the next group of merged MEC Committee Chairpersons. We want to thank everyone who expressed interest in the available positions and their willingness to serve. After careful consideration and deliberation, the following candidates have […]

Election Notice: Alaska + Hawaiian MEC Officer Elections

The term of office for our current Alaska + Hawaiian Master Executive Council (MEC) Officers will conclude on December 31, 2025. The voting members of the MEC (LEC Presidents) will elect new MEC Officers at the November Regular MEC meeting. This communication serves as notice of the election in accordance with the MEC Policy and Procedure Manual. […]

Recent Posts

News By Month

News By Category

AFA News Now Air Quality Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) AS/HA Merger AS/VX Merger Benefits Committee Committees Communications Committee Contract Contract 2014 Negotiations Blog Council 15 SAN Council 18 LAX Council 19 SEA Council 30 ANC Council 35 SFO Council 39 PDX EAP/Professional Standards Committee Extension 2021 Blog Featured Government Affairs Committee Grievance Committee Hotel Committee Human Rights & Equity Committee Industry News Inflight Service Committee Inflight Training Committee JNC Blog Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC) Latest News Local Councils Master Executive Council (MEC) Membership Committee Membership Engagement Committee Message from the MEC President Mobilization Committee Negotiations Pairing Construction Preferential Bidding System (PBS) Press Releases Reserve Committee Retirement Committee Scheduling Committee Uniform Committee

Want To Stay In The Loop?

Stay up-to-date on AFA Alaska news and information by signing up for our email and text message updates. Click a button below to get started or update your preferences if you're already a subscriber.
Sign Up for Emails
Sign Up for Text Updates