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Representing the Flight Attendants of Alaska + Hawaiian

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Human Rights Committee

  • Our AFA Human Rights Committee Chairpersons met on Thursday, December 14, to discuss their ongoing program of work to advance human rights within our workplace and community.
  • The Committee also met with management to receive updates on what progress has been made on concerns that had been previously brought forward and address new concerns that have come to light. 
  • If you have ideas, thoughts, or feedback for the committee, your Local Human Rights Committee Chairperson would love to hear from you!

On Thursday, December 14, our AFA Local Human Rights Committee Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing activism to build awareness and effect change within our workplace and community. Representing you at the meeting were Louise Borras (LAX), Yan Yan Teague (SEA), Sylvia Newbill (PDX). Annie Madsen (ANC), and Trista Vanta (SFO). Also present were MEC Human Rights Committee Chairperson Chip Hestle II and MEC Secretary-Treasurer Linda Christou.

The committee met with VP Operations Matt Prainto, Managing Director of Inflight Operations Michaela Littman, Seattle Director of Inflight Base Operations Jenny Bookert, and Managing Director of Inflight Ops & Crew Scheduling Allen Thieman.

The committee is next scheduled to meet with management on Thursday February 22, 2024.

Topics of Discussion

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

  • On December 8, 2023 Freddy Vega was selected as the new Local Human Rights Committee Chairperson for Council 19 SEA. Freddy brings an abundance of experience and education surrounding Human Rights. We thank Yan Yan Teague for her years of service as the former Local Chairperson. Yan Yan will continue as a Committee Member.     
  • October 9, 2023 Bulletin: ELP Spanish Announcement And International Flyer. As a result of our Flight Attendants bringing attention to the Human Rights Committee, some of our Non-Speaking ELP/SEA guests were arriving at SEA with no knowledge of SEATAC and/or resources available. This was brought to our training department for discussion. As a result, Flight Attendants now have resources (a flyer) on board those flights to assist our guests not only with navigation about SEATAC but also with food and beverage options we offer on board. This information is also available on our IMD. The Spanish Announcement has been temporarily removed pending review. Along with ELP we asked that AUS, PHX, TUS and SAT be added. Allen will inquire about our request. 
  • Opportunity to have pronoun’s added to our wings. The optional pronoun would be under the name on the wing. Trista is working on developing this.   
  • Concerns why our speakers are being removed from some of our Mexico flights. Matt informed us the speakers were originally placed on board the flights to assist with  necessary paper that was required to be completed by our guests. Alaska has since moved towards an automated format, eliminating the need for any assistance on the aircraft.

Other Committee News

January 12-15, 2024 Some of the Human Rights Committee members will be attending the 2024 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference in Montgomery Alabama – Joining AFA International VP Keturah Johnson and other AFA Human Rights Committees. 2024 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference (themlkconference.org)

What The Committee Is Working On

  1. International Flyer. Adding more routes to use the International Flyer as well as additional resources for the upcoming year.  
  2. Committee Participation. Participation with Alaska’s Diversity Equity and Inclusion Department Heritage Months and other projects.   
  3. Optional Pronouns on Wings. Working toward the ability to add pronouns to our wings.

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.

Scheduling, Grievance, and Hotel Committees

  • Hotel reservation details are not populating in pairings. 
  • The “Drop” (to Open Time) drop-down was reported by a few (but not all) Flight Attendant as not visible prior to Open Time opening.
  • Drops to Open Time were not functioning for January 24-30, 2024, for all domiciles except Seattle until just before 2 PM PT.

What will come as no surprise to anyone, Crew Access is malfunctioning once again. So far, there are three issues identified:

  1. Hotel reservation details are not populating in pairings, 
  2. The “Drop” (to Open Time) drop-down was reported by a few (but not all) Flight Attendant as not visible prior to Open Time opening, and 
  3. Drops to Open Time were not functioning for January 24-30, 2024, for all domiciles except Seattle until just before 2 PM PT. (Reminder: January 31 is the first day of the February bid month.) Seattle appeared to open normally at 2 PM PT.

Hotel reservation details not populating in pairings

This outage is specific to Jeppesen and not related to API. Outdated or no hotel information is being displayed. However, Crew Scheduling (CS) is manually updating hotel information in Crew Access. Additionally, the hotel information in the My Crew Care (API) app is importing correctly and is accurate.

[Update: This issue has been resolved as of 12/16/2023 @ 18:36 PT ^MECP Jeff]

Drop to Open Time not visible prior to Open Time opening for some Flight Attendants

So far, this does not appear to be a widespread issue, and Alaska ITS is investigating.

Drops to Open Time were not functioning for January 24-30, 2024

Alaska ITS and Jeppesen appeared to resolve the issue just before 2 PM PT, which meant that Seattle opened normally at 2 PM. Our Master Executive Council (MEC) and management have agreed to an initial remedy to help mitigate the impact of this outage (for all domiciles except Seattle):

Overview:

In chronological order, CS will review the Flight Attendants who attempted to drop trips to Open Time on these days but were unsuccessful. CS will offer to manually drop their trip into OT. CS will work down the list until they meet the contractually required number of Threshold Sequence Number (TSN) trips for the respective base. ITS has a report of all Open Time drop transactions, so they can replicate who attempted to drop trips first. This report will become available at 2:30 PM PT, but they will need time to prepare the report into a workable format for these purposes. Inflight Crew Scheduling Management will begin to contact Flight Attendants this evening to see if they wish to drop their trip. This process will preserve the integrity of the first-come, first-serve method of Open Time to give those who attempted to drop first the flexibility they attempted to achieve.  

Details:

  1. CS will place the identified sequence (processed in chronological order) in Open Time and hide the pairing until they can make positive contact with the Flight Attendant to confirm that they still want the trip dropped. The Flight Attendant will see a FCR (pre-cancellation) on their line until they confirm the drop. The use of FCR is to protect legalities should the Flight Attendant decide they wanted the sequence back and not dropped into Open Time anymore.
  2. Once CS confirms the Flight Attendant wants the pairing dropped, they will unhide it in Open Time.
  3. If FA does not want the trip dropped, CS will put it back on their roster and move down the list.
  4. The timeframe for Flight Attendants to call back will be 24 hours. If the Flight Attendant does not call CS back within 24 hours, then their sequence will be placed back on their roster and CS will move down the list.
  5. If the Flight Attendant who is first on the list no longer has the pairing they attempted to drop for that date, CS will move down the list.
  6. This process will be completed until the TSN max equivalent is met for each base.

Ongoing dispute resolution

This situation is completely unacceptable, and our top priority is ensuring our contractual provisions are adhered to and protected. The tools that you rely on for contractual flexibility should work. Our Grievance Committee will continue to seek appropriate remedies via the Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) process.

Upcoming Day of Solidarity

Looking for an outlet to vent your frustrations? Join us on the picket line or via virtual picket on Tuesday, December 19. For more information, click here.

In This Edition

Setting the Record Straight

Originally posted December 11, 2023

AFA did not cancel the December mediation session. Our Negotiating Committee is meeting today and the rest of this week as originally scheduled. We’re counting on you to show up on December 19 for the picket. Management has given us 1.9 billion reasons to demonstrate!

Read More >

Get Ready for Our Day of Solidarity – Tuesday, December 19

Originally posted December 12, 2023

Don’t forget to RSVP for our Day of Solidarity informational picketing events next week on Tuesday, December 19. As a reminder, Flight Attendants scheduled to work during the events must refrain from participating. If you’re not able to attend in person, you can join our virtual picket using the resources on the contract website.

Read More >

Reserve Committee Meeting Recap – 4th Quarter 2023

Originally posted December 12, 2023

Our AFA Reserve Committee Chairpersons met on Thursday, December 7, 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!

Read More >

Supplemental Negotiations Update – December 2023

Originally posted December 15, 2023

This week’s mediation session was canceled due to a personal tragedy of our assigned mediator. Our Negotiating Committee met internally, using the time to review progress and prepare for mediation in January. Although the negotiations landscape has changed in recent months, the Committee remains focused on essential contractual provisions. Get ready for some big news next week! A major announcement will be made next week on Tuesday, December 19, in conjunction with our Day of Solidarity informational picketing.

Read More >

Shared on Social

1.9 Billion Reasons

Alaska Airlines management gave us 1.9 billion reasons this week to join the picket line on December 19! We will not be distracted from our goal of an industry-leading contract for our Flight Attendants.

RSVP now at https://actionnetwork.org/event_campaigns/dec-19-picketing-ala

Watch Our Instagram Reel >

Southwest Flight Attendant Ratification Re-Vote

We learned today that Southwest Flight Attendants will conduct a re-vote on their recent Tentative Agreement Ratification. TWU Local 556 was unable to certify the vote results due to several potential technical issues with their voting system, TrueBallot. Additionally, voter information was not secure – individuals were potentially able to identify names, emails, and vote records of members.

AFA does not use TrueBallot – we use EBallot. When you cast your vote in EBallot, your identifying information is separated from your vote. This is why your vote cannot be changed once cast. Members ineligible to vote (e.g., members not in good standing) will be unable to vote on EBallot. However, AFA members can still become eligible during the balloting period (e.g., by setting up a dues payment plan).

We hope this allays any fears of technical issues or unsecured voter information once we reach a ratification vote. After the final outcome of the ratification vote is known, we will communicate how the outcome relates and fits into our overall bargaining strategy. AFA has never had a similar issue using the EBallot vendor.

Shareable Day of Solidarity Graphic

It’s time to ensure your friends and family join you on the picket line! Share this graphic to your Instagram and Facebook story and spread the word about our December 19 Day of Solidarity.

United AFA Day of Action – December 14, 2023

Yesterday’s United AFA Day of Action informational picketing events witnessed an overwhelming display of solidarity and strength by United Airlines Flight Attendants. With holiday travelers taking to the skies, they showcased their immense power and demonstrated that they are ready to do “Whatever It Takes” to get the contract they have rightfully earned! United management can’t ignore the unity displayed by United Flight Attendants, labor allies, and supporters.

United Flight Attendants have rightfully earned contractual pay and work rule improvements, and it’s time for United management to deliver a contract that recognizes their value. Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants stood in proud solidarity with our United counterparts on the picket lines, and we will continue to stand together, as their fight is our fight! Our collective voice is strong, undeniably powerful, and demands to be heard by management across the industry!

Something Big is Coming

Be prepared for big news next week. Our Negotiating Committee is all set to make a major announcement on Tuesday, December 19, in conjunction with our Day of Solidarity informational picketing. This news is a game-changer and will significantly impact our ongoing negotiations for the contractual pay and work rule improvements we are fighting for.

Join our Day of Solidarity events on December 19 and be among the first to know about the upcoming news. Our Negotiating Committee and your fellow Flight Attendants are counting on your support and participation to help amplify the impending announcement. You can find all the information about Tuesday’s picketing events, including the link to RSVP, on this page of the negotiations website.

Spread the word among your friends, family, and flying partners and encourage them to join you on the picket line. Now is the time to stand together to show management that we are a force to be reckoned with and will not back down until we get the contract we deserve!

Next Week’s Events

Monday, December 18 – Tuesday, December 19AFA Executive Board Meeting
Tuesday, December 19Day of Solidarity Informational Picketing
Thursday, December 21Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Thursday, December 21Scheduling 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!

AFA Council 19 Seattle November Newsletter

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AFA EAP

At times, our lives can become challenging and even overwhelming or perhaps you have encountered a troubling experience. Please know our EAP committee is always available to you whenever you may feel the need.  The EAP is a peer-to-peer committee, by Flight Attendants for Flight Attendants, as they assist with extra support along with referral services and critical incident response. If you ever need to talk to someone, be assured your voice is always confidential and heard with trained embrace and support. You can refer to this link for more information and contact information. https://afaalaska.org/eap

December Solidarity Event

Please make sure to keep December 19th open on your calendar, as we will be holding our next large Solidarity Event on that day. More information on the event will be cooking soon, but please remember to register for the event. 

Date: December 19th, 2023

Time: 12:30pm – 2:00pm

Location: SeaTac Flag Pavilion

Council 19 Membership Meeting

We will be holding a Council 19 Membership meeting in conjunction with the Solidarity event on December 19th, please stay tuned for more information. 

Spotlight On the Contract

This month we’d like to bring further awareness to our contractual Ground Commuting Policy. As we know, we are always required to make all reasonable efforts to arrive on time in advance of our scheduling obligation. With that said, unforeseen ground commuting obstacles can occur, in which case please refer to your contractual protections. 

Here is some highlighted language for your review. For full language, including Commuter Policy Recovery Options, please refer to your contract, section 28 Domiciles. If you have any questions, you can reach out to your local SEA LEC Council 19 leaders.

2. Ground Commuting Policy 

a.     The provisions set forth in this Agreement regarding ground commuting apply to all Flight Attendants (whether or not they are a “registered air commuter”), including Flight Attendants who have picked up out of domicile/co-terminal. 

1.     Ground commuting will encompass traveling to work by car (e.g. personal vehicle, liveried transport, shared ride service excluding car pool options, etc.), public transportation (e.g. ferry, light rail/train, bus, etc.) or other ground transport method (e.g. bicycle, etc.). 

2.     In the case of an unanticipated ground commuting failure, a Flight Attendant may utilize the Commuter Policy recovery options in G.3., below, provided that s/he calls Crew Scheduling at least one-hour (1:00) prior to scheduled check-in time (e.g. one-hour (1:00) prior to the commencement of APSB or two hours (2:00) prior to departure for scheduled sequences) and submits dated proof to management within seven (7) days of the event. 

3.     Dated proof may include, but is not limited to, evidence of vehicle breakdown or accident, light rail/train service interruption, screenshot of SIG Alert, 511.org snapshots showing unplanned road closures. If proof is not provided within seven (7) days, then the appropriate Attendance Policy points will apply. 

Example: A Flight Attendant who is stuck in traffic on a freeway that is shut down for three hours (3:00) due to a mudslide while on the way to work. 

Example: A Flight Attendant who is stopped on the light rail for one hour (1:00) due to a power outage while on the way to work. 

It is important to reach out to your AFA Representative if you have questions about the above language, as there are areas that can be confusing and “gray”. 

CBT Reminder

Do not forget to complete your CBT (Annual Compliance Training) by the end of the year deadline. It is important to remember if you do not complete the required training, the discipline is progressive. If you are already in steps of discipline, failure to complete your CBT will move you up the steps, up to and including discharge. If you encounter any technical issues, please contact the ITS Help desk. To verify your CBT is complete, check that your Cornerstone transcript lists under “Completed” and check your email for a confirmation. 

AFA International HRE Committee

The AFA Human Rights and Equity Committee is committed to providing the broadest possible representation of our members regardless of age, disability, marital status, national origin, ethnicity, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity and gender expression. We honor and celebrate the shared humanity of the members in our care. We shall at all times endeavor to promote the principles of tolerance, fairness, equity, justice, respect and inclusion within our Union. It is only when we all work together we can tear down the walls of division and create a progressive culture that values social & economic justice for all working people. 

You can view this month’s HRE Committee newsletter here.

Membership Dues

We have solidarity events coming up, so it is important to make sure that you are up to date on your membership dues, as you are required to be current in order to attend. Also, please remember that when a tentative agreement is reached with the company, you must be up to date in order to vote! If you have questions about your dues status, please reach out to our LEC Secretary, Adam Clarey at adam.clarey@afaalaska.org. 

There is a great article on the AFA Website, “Dues & Voting: What You Need To Know To Make Sure You Can Vote”. We suggest taking a look at that for some helpful information. 

Find Us on Social Media

You can find the most up to date information on our Council 19 Facebook Group. Click below to join our group and stay connected. We have also launched a new Council 19 Instagram page, which you will find a link for below as well. Our communication team is researching other social media platforms, more information will come soon!

  

Throughout the years unions have played an integral role in attaining reasonable work rules, sanitary and safe conditions, as well as living wages…without them the current workers’ landscape would look quite different. We owe a large debt to the formation and continuance of ensuring continued equality in maintaining all things held sacred, enabling collective bargaining as well as reducing income inequality. In particular, within the arena of the airline industry, lending itself to reasonable work hours in stark contrast to FAA minimums also becomes paramount. 

Unions are indeed the hand that holds and protects, as we never forget where workers once were in years past and the hard years fought for change…and so it continues. Our union being that of a beacon of light, ensuring our well-being and quality of life. Many thanks to our membership for continuing to place pressure for change throughout our current negotiations, keeping the resolve and with much gratitude to all; as we are the force to always attain better…just as our predecessors have done throughout all moments in history. We are union proud. 

In Solidarity,

Your Council 19 Officers and Committees

Reserve Committee

  • Our AFA Reserve Committee Chairpersons met on Thursday, December 7 to discuss their ongoing program of work to represent and advocate for our Reserve Flight Attendants.
  • The Committee also met with management to review a number of specific concerns that were brought forward by Flight Attendants.
  • Your Local Reserve Committee is available to answer questions, provide clarification, or help to resolve any reserve related issues. Please don’t hesitate to reach out!

On Thursday, December 7, 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.

The committee met with the Director of Inflight Crew Scheduling Sara Cook, Manager of Inflight Crew Scheduling Goose Hlaingmyint and Supervisor of Inflight Crew Scheduling Derrick Bernard.

The committee is next scheduled to meet on Thursday, March 14, 2024.

Topics of Discussion

The committee reviewed a number of items both during internal AFA-only conversation and when meeting with management. Some items discussed include:

  • Plans for Initial Training classes for 2024. Management has pushed the class 1 start date to the end of Q1 or the beginning of Q2, but they still intend to hire more Flight Attendants in 2024. However, the number of classes and the specific number of students in each class will depend on the delivery of new aircraft.
  • Issues and glitches with Crew Access that are affecting Reserve Flight Attendants. Review of where known issues are documented and newly added/ fixed issues. 
  • Review of upcoming updates to Crew Access software and associated fixes to current issues and other improvements prioritization for programming fixes.
  • Support for probationary Flight Attendants through the Probationary Buddy Program. We have had three classes complete probation, and the remaining four classes will all be off probation by mid-April 2024. Reminder to refer Probationary Flight Attendants to their Buddy for answers to contract and work rules questions.
  • Increase in Lineholders picking up reserve days, which has resulted in increased flexibility for Reserve Flight Attendants.
  • Review of reserve utilization statistics for November, where approximately 85.3% of Reserves were used in all bases.
  • Review of personal drops: for November, they have been able to award 931 Flight Attendant personal drops.
  • Review of reserve-related scheduling issues that have occurred recently.
  • Review of reserve-related issues that have been escalated to the Scheduling Review Board (SRB) and Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) processes.
  • Reminder to new hire Flight Attendants about the AFA Alaska Online Support Center to report issues, raise concerns, or ask questions.

What the Committee is Working On

  1. Assisting Probationary Flight Attendants Through the Probationary Buddy Program. Answering questions from and providing support to probationary Flight Attendants through an expanded AFA Probationary Buddy program. Growing support in all bases with more buddies & new useful tools. 
  2. Addressing Reserve Contractual Concerns. Researching and investigating reports from Reserve Flight Attendants and actively ensuring management is complying with our contract. If not compliant taking issues through the SRB & ADR process to ensure compliance.

We Want to Hear From You!

Do you have feedback for the committee, concerns you’d like to share, or items that 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.

In This Edition

Alaska-Hawaiian Announce Merger: What Flight Attendants Need to Know

Originally posted December 3, 2023

Today, Alaska Air Group (AAG) management has announced its intent to acquire Hawaiian Airlines, while maintaining the unique identity of both brands.

We know that everyone has questions and concerns about the proposed merger of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. Mergers take time. Nothing will happen overnight. But right now we must stick together because the airlines are very clear about how this will benefit shareholders, consumers, and employees but together we can claim clarity in black and white for our jobs and the improvements we can expect. 

Read More >

Air Quality Quick Reminders

Originally posted December 5, 2023

Fume events can occur on flights for various reasons, such as oil leaks or mechanical issues. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of air quality, fume, and hypoxic events, so you know what to do if you suspect one is happening. More resources are available on the Air Quality Subcommittee page of the AFA Alaska website. 

Read More >

Housing & Food Assistance Resources

Originally posted December 6, 2023

Starting a career as a Flight Attendant is more challenging than ever due to low pay rates that haven’t kept up with the cost of living. Many new Flight Attendants face difficulties securing housing and food in expensive cities where they are based. Our EAP Committee has created a new website page with comprehensive information on resources to help Flight Attendants overcome these obstacles.

Read More >

Join The Picket Line: Support United Flight Attendants on Thursday, December 14

Originally posted December 7, 2023

On December 14, 2023, United Airlines Flight Attendants will take to the picket line – their holiday spirit of unity and solidarity burning brighter than ever. They are determined to strengthen their power and demonstrate their unwavering commitment to securing a contract that genuinely values their work and contributions to United Airlines. As holiday travelers take to the skies, United AFA Flight Attendants will ensure their voices are heard loud and clear. They are unified and ready to do “Whatever It Takes” to get the contract they have rightfully earned!

Join United Flight Attendants on the picket lines during their upcoming Day of Action, and let’s show our unwavering solidarity! Together, we can send a powerful message to United Airlines management and the entire airline industry that we demand nothing less than the best for Flight Attendants. It’s time to take bold action and demand the respect and recognition we all truly deserve. So, RSVP now and get ready to make our voices heard loud and clear!

Read More >

December 2023 MEC Meeting Recap

Originally posted December 8, 2023

Our AFA Alaska Master Executive Council (MEC) met this week on Wednesday, December 6, to conduct their ongoing work to represent our Flight Attendants. The MEC’s quarterly meeting with executive management and a group of union leaders from other company workgroups was postponed due to the merger announcement and other scheduling conflicts. The next Regular MEC Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 9, and Wednesday, January 10.

Read More >

Inflight Service Committee Meeting Recap – 4th Quarter 2023

Originally posted December 8, 2023

Our AFA Inflight Service Committee Chairpersons met on November 29 to represent Flight Attendants’ interests related to catering and onboard service/sales. The Committee met with management to discuss and receive updates on issues and problems faced by Flight Attendants onboard. The Committee continues to work with management to address catering concerns and improve processes in the future. Please report catering issues through Block2Block and safety-related issues through ReportIt!

Read More >

Shared on Social

Cancelled

Alaska Flight Attendants are struggling to afford living expenses, let alone enjoy holiday shopping for their loved ones. It’s time for Alaska management to prove they care with an industry leading contract!

Watch Our Instagram Reel >

1.9 Billion Reasons

December 19th. See you there #PayUsOrCHAOS #AlaskaFAContract

See Our Post >

Next Week’s Events

Tuesday, December 12 – Thursday, December 14Contract Negotiations
Thursday, December 14Quarterly Human Rights Committee Meeting
Thursday, December 14United AFA Day of Action Informational Picketing

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!

Inflight Service Committee

  • Our AFA Inflight Service Committee Chairpersons met on November 29 to represent Flight Attendants’ interests related to catering and onboard service/sales.
  • The Committee met with management to discuss and receive updates on issues and problems faced by Flight Attendants onboard.
  • The Committee continues to work with management to address catering concerns and improve processes in the future. Please report catering issues through Block2Block and safety-related issues through ReportIt!

On Wednesday, November 29, our AFA Inflight Service Committee 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 Naomi Parcell (ANC), Ross DeJong (SEA), Todd Horn (PDX), Raymond Ramirez (SFO), Johanna Thomas (LAX), and Chase Vandergrift (SAN). MEC Inflight Committee Chairperson Stephanie Garnett was also present. 

The committee met with Senior Inflight Experience Program Manager Matthew Coder, Inflight Product and Experience Director David Scotland, Principal Cabin Product and Experience Manager Chris Dela Rosa, Director of Onboard Food and Beverage Services Dean Courtelis, Senior Food and Beverage Product Manager Jessica Johnston, Manager of Food and Beverage Planning and Programs David Rodriguez, Senior Onboard Food and Beverage Specialist Andrea Lockett, Principal Product Manager ITS Apps Ranjita Prasad, Director of Catering Operations Andrew Moyer, and other management representatives from the food & beverage and catering operations. 

The next scheduled Inflight Service Committee meeting is Tuesday, February 27, 2024.

Topics of Discussion

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

  • Local Committee Chairperson Discussion. During the AFA-only session, some items discussed were the snacks, brewing the new coffee, testing the Apple tap-to-pay process, catering loading, and service flow.
  • MAX 8 Galleys. The diagrams for the MAX 8 galleys were reviewed. Galley 4 will have an expanded trash bin on aircraft right, and catering loading will need to be modified. Discussions included the ability to have completely separate supplies for legs 1 and 2.
  • Aircraft Interiors. Management is continuing to work on refreshing interiors across the fleet.
  • Onboard Service Procedures. Management noted that the completion rate of the pre-departure beverage service has improved. However, the service flow was identified as difficult to complete. Premium Class has many service components that contribute to delivering a positive experience for passengers, which will continue to be discussed. There will be an emphasis on enhancing the Premium Experience for 2024.
  • Catering Products. The catering team has successfully transitioned to Stumptown Coffee and is working on improving the brewing process. Feedback from passengers suggests that those traveling in first class are enjoying the “greatest hits” menu, which has been received positively. Additionally, new products have been introduced, including changes to the flavors of Stellar Snacks, Freemont Brewing’s Cloud Cruiser IPA, non-alcoholic beer, Polar cranberry-lime seltzer, and oat-milk creamers.
  • Catering Operations. The management team has recently made some improvements to the glassware cleaning process. They have also introduced some logistical changes to make catering supplies more readily available on the aircraft. The Committee was introduced to the new Director of Catering Operations, Andrew Moyer. Going forward, the Committee will work closely with him to address any catering-related issues or concerns.
  • IMD Updates. Management is in the process of introducing software-based payment options through a Tap-to-Pay feature. This option eliminates the need to swipe credit cards physically and simplifies transactions. On December 20, a Block2Block update will be released with a fix for current bugs and functionality to provide timely flight delay information to crewmembers and passengers. Additional updates, including the release of version 3.0 of Block2Block, will be available in April.

We Want to Hear from You!

Please continue to report any catering issues or problems with onboard service using the catering feedback function in Block2Block. If you’ve experienced a safety-related issue, please submit a report through ReportIt! Your reports provide the Committee with the data needed to continue pushing management for meaningful improvements in our workplace.

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

Master Executive Council (MEC)

  • Our AFA Alaska Master Executive Council (MEC) met this week on Wednesday, December 6, to conduct their ongoing work to represent our Flight Attendants.
  • The MEC’s quarterly meeting with executive management and a group of union leaders from other company workgroups was postponed due to the merger announcement and other scheduling conflicts.
  • The next Regular MEC Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 9, and Wednesday, January 10.

The December 2023 Regular MEC Meeting was held this week on Wednesday, December 6. The meeting consisted of updates from our MEC Officers, LEC Presidents, Grievance Committee, and Scheduling Committee. Our MEC also reviewed written reports submitted by other AFA MEC Committee Chairpersons about their current programs of work.

Meeting with Management Delayed

In conjunction with this meeting, our MEC was supposed to meet with company executive management and a group of union leaders representing the other workgroups. These meetings, usually held once every quarter, provide an opportunity to receive updates from management and engage in a broader discussion of issues and concerns that impact all employees within the company. However, due to the recent merger announcement and other scheduling conflicts, management postponed the meeting until next week.

Contract Negotiations and Mobilization

Our MEC had a highly productive meeting with AFA Senior Staff Negotiator Paula Mastrangelo regarding the recent Alaska-Hawaiian merger announcement, the status of negotiations and mediation, and upcoming mobilization activities. We are more than ready for our upcoming Day of Solidarity informational picketing, and our Negotiating Committee is counting on us to show up and join the picket lines with full force. Let’s send an unwavering message to management that we are strong, united, and fiercely committed to fighting for the contractual pay and work rule improvements we have rightfully earned.

Questions?

If you have any questions about this month’s Regular MEC Meeting, please get in touch with your LEC President.

Master Executive Council (MEC)

On December 14, 2023, United Airlines Flight Attendants will take to the picket line – their holiday spirit of unity and solidarity burning brighter than ever. They are determined to strengthen their power and demonstrate their unwavering commitment to securing a contract that genuinely values their work and contributions to United Airlines. As holiday travelers take to the skies, United AFA Flight Attendants will ensure their voices are heard loud and clear. They are unified and ready to do “Whatever It Takes” to get the contract they have rightfully earned!

Join United Flight Attendants on the picket lines during their upcoming Day of Action, and let’s show our unwavering solidarity! Together, we can send a powerful message to United Airlines management and the entire airline industry that we demand nothing less than the best for Flight Attendants. It’s time to take bold action and demand the respect and recognition we all truly deserve. So, RSVP now and get ready to make our voices heard loud and clear!

United AFA Day Of Action Picketing Event Information

Date: Thursday, December 14

Locations: AUS, BOS, CLE, DEN, EWR, FLL, GUM, HNL, IAD, IAH, LAS, LAX, LGA, LHR, MCO, ORD, PHX, SAN, SFO, TPA

Click here for event details and to RSVP >

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee

  • Starting a career as a Flight Attendant is more challenging than ever due to low pay rates that haven’t kept up with the cost of living.
  • Many new Flight Attendants face difficulties securing housing and food in expensive cities where they are based.
  • Our EAP Committee has created a new website page with comprehensive information on resources to help Flight Attendants overcome these obstacles.

Starting a career as a Flight Attendant is a significant and challenging life change, especially in today’s industry. The ever-increasing pace of inflation and lagging pay rates that haven’t kept up with the cost of living makes it difficult for many new hires to make ends meet. Finding affordable housing and healthy food options in newly assigned bases, located in some of the most expensive cities in the country, can be overwhelming and stressful for many new Flight Attendants. 

Our Negotiating Committee recognized the need for immediate financial improvements to help Flight Attendants address these challenges, and they approached management for an interim pay increase when negotiations first got underway in late 2022. Unfortunately, management declined even to discuss the request. This is highly disappointing, considering that Flight Attendants are falling further and further behind every day.

We want you to know that if you are struggling, you are not alone, and our EAP Committee is here to help. To assist those currently facing housing and food challenges, we’ve created a new website page with comprehensive information on resources to help Flight Attendants overcome these obstacles. You can find the page by clicking here or through the links section of the EAP Committee page on afaalaska.org. The page provides useful information on affordable housing options, food banks, and other resources to help ease your worries and offer much-needed relief.

We realize that the need for housing and food assistance can be sensitive, and we want to ensure you have a safe, supportive, and confidential environment to access these resources. Our new website page will provide tools and resources to help you overcome these challenges and find comfort and security. If you have any questions or are looking for support, please get in touch with our AFA EAP Committee. Call (949) 470-0493 or find your Local EAP Committee at afaalaska.org/eap.

Housing & Food Assistance Resources

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. […]

SEA Domicile Negotiations – September 2025 Update #2

This message is for pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants Negotiations Update Our SEA Domicile Negotiating Committee met with the company on September 11 to review their response to our September 5 proposal.  We feel that it is important to acknowledge the challenges within our company as Alaska management is struggling to understand our Collective Bargaining Agreement […]

Reserve Committee Meeting Recap – 3rd Quarter 2025

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants On Thursday, September 11, 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 Conner Gallager (SEA), Anthony Eskander (PDX), Meghan Casey (SFO), Kanako Yamada (LAX), and Rebecca Garcia (SAN). Also present […]

Celebrating Hispanic-Latinx Heritage Month

September 15 marks the start of Hispanic-Latinx Heritage Month in the United States, a vibrant celebration dedicated to honoring the rich contributions and diverse cultures of Hispanic-Latinx Americans. Spanning a full month, this observance—also known as National Hispanic Heritage Month—has its roots in Hispanic Heritage Week, which was established by legislation signed into law by […]

Hotel Committee Meeting Recap – September 2025

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants On Monday, September 8, our AFA Local Hotel Committee Chairpersons met in person in Seattle to receive an update about current layover hotels and transportation providers and discuss concerns with management. Representing you at the meeting were Dori Marron (ANC), Jarod McNeill (SEA), Ila Christy (PDX), Hilary […]

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