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Representing the Flight Attendants of Alaska + Hawaiian

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Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC)

  • Several Flight Attendants have been injured recently due to older-style B/E Aerospace coffee makers spewing hot coffee and grounds.
  • Management denied an AFA request to discontinue using these coffee makers despite the risk to Flight Attendant and passenger safety.
  • A formal complaint is being filed with the FAA, and a contractual grievance will be filed against the company.

Over the past several months, at least nine Flight Attendant injuries have been reported, caused by scalding hot coffee and grounds spewing from the brew basket of older-style B/E Aerospace coffee makers on various aircraft. This is an alarming situation that requires immediate attention. It’s suspected that the recent changeover in coffee served onboard, which is packaged differently than the old product, may be contributing to this issue. Management has begun investigating the root cause and has identified some potential solutions to address the problem. However, it will likely take significant time to implement the mitigations fully.

Last week, our Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) sent management an official request to discontinue using B/E Aerospace coffee makers until physical mitigations can be implemented. Despite the inconvenience this may cause by leaving some aircraft with fewer or no coffee makers to use, the Committee believes that potentially seeing multiple Flight Attendants injured while waiting for long-term fixes is unacceptable. Disappointingly, management denied the request, knowingly putting the physical safety and well-being of employees and passengers at risk for the sake of a few more cups of coffee.

This decision by management is a clear violation of their own core value of “owning safety” and displays a shocking level of negligence. Given the gravity of the situation, we will be taking immediate action by filing a formal complaint with the FAA to escalate the issue. Additionally, our Grievance Committee will file a contractual grievance based on management’s violation of section §25.B of our collective bargaining agreement (“The Company will provide a safe and healthy workplace…”).

Flight Attendant and passenger safety must not be compromised. It’s reckless and unacceptable for management to put Flight Attendants at risk by keeping hazardous coffee makers in operation. Removing these coffee makers from service is the right thing to do and the only responsible action for management to take. It’s our right to work in a safe environment, and we demand that this right be upheld.

Master Executive Council (MEC)

  • The February 2024 Regular MEC Meeting was held last week on Wednesday, February 14.
  • Our MEC debriefed on the successful Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action, which received extensive media coverage and brought our fight further into the public eye.
  • The strike vote results were reviewed, where 99.48% of Flight Attendants voted in favor of authorizing a strike. Thank you to our Mobilization Volunteers for their hard work and contribution to achieving this outcome!

Our AFA Alaska Master Executive Council (MEC) held its regular meeting for February 2024 on Wednesday, February 14. These meetings, required under the AFA Constitution & Bylaws, provide an important opportunity for the MEC to discuss and address issues and concerns affecting our Union and Members at the airline level. Your directly elected LEC President (or their designee) attends these meetings as your representative and votes on your behalf when decisions need to be made.

During the meeting, the MEC received updates from the MEC Officers, LEC Presidents, Grievance Committee, and Scheduling Committee. Additionally, the MEC reviewed written reports submitted by other AFA MEC Committee Chairpersons detailing their current work and activities.

Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action

Our MEC debriefed the previous day’s Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action informational picketing events. The events were wildly successful, with incredible participation by Alaska Flight Attendants at all six bases (including the SNA and ONT co-terminals) and several other participating airports around the country. Coupled with the announcement of our strike vote results, we gained significant local and national media coverage, bringing our fight further into the public eye. Read more about the Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action, including a summary of media coverage, by clicking here.

Strike Vote Results & Mobilization Volunteer Thank You

Our MEC reviewed the results of our strike vote, where a resounding 99.48% of Flight Attendants voted in favor of authorizing a strike! This overwhelming mandate is a major milestone in our ongoing battle for an industry-leading agreement, and it empowers AFA leadership to request a release from the National Mediation Board if management fails to agree to significant improvements at the negotiating table. Thank you to everyone who voted and made their voices heard!

Additionally, our MEC would also like to express our heartfelt gratitude for the unwavering dedication and hard work of our Mobilization Volunteers. Their tireless efforts in encouraging and helping Flight Attendants to vote were critical to the success of our strike vote. From sharing voting information and resources, answering questions, joining airport outreach sits and terminal walks, and assisting with the text messaging campaign, they truly made a difference in achieving the incredible voter turnout. We are stronger together because of their commitment to our collective voice. A special thank you to all our Mobilization Volunteers!

Contract Now Lanyards

Last week at the Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action picketing events, we introduced bright red AFA Contract Now lanyards to bring even more visibility to our fight for an industry-leading contract. A supply of lanyards has been provided to Mobilization Volunteers and others for distribution. Flight Attendants can expect to see Mobilization Volunteers at the airport in our six bases at varying times to hand out lanyards. Look for additional information from your Local Council about when and where to find Mobilization Volunteers with lanyards. As a reminder, if you face any attempt from management to interfere with our ability to wear a Union lanyard, report it immediately using the Management Interference Report form.

Contract Negotiations/Mediation

Our MEC was updated on the negotiation session that took place the previous week with the mediator assigned by the National Mediation Board (NMB). The update included a discussion about negotiation logistics and upcoming scheduling. You can find more information about the session here.

Questions?

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

In This Edition

Strike Vote: Last Day To Vote!

Originally posted February 12, 2024

Note: This information is for historical reference only. Voting closed on Tuesday, February 13. For information on the voting results, please see Flight Attendants at Alaska Airlines Vote 99.48% to Authorize a Strike (below).

Today is the last full day to vote before voting closes tomorrow (Tuesday, February 13) at 12 PM PT! As of this morning, 91% of Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants have participated in the Strike Authorization Vote. Our goal is 100% participation and 100% FOR authorization! If you have not done so already, cast your vote TODAY! Make sure to encourage your friends and crews to vote FOR the strike authorization!

Read More >

Flight Attendants at Alaska Airlines Vote 99.48% to Authorize a Strike

Originally posted February 13, 2024

Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), voted 99.48% yes on strike authorization should management fail to agree to significant improvements. 

“Our time is now!” said AFA Alaska President Jeffrey Peterson. “Alaska Flight Attendants today backed up our fight for an industry-leading contract with a 99.48% strike vote. And we’re out on the picket line demonstrating that we’re ready to do whatever it takes to get the contract we deserve. There’s no excuse: Alaska management has the money to buy another airline, they certainly have the money to invest in Flight Attendants. We have a simple message for management: Pay us, or CHAOS!”

Read More >

AFA “Contract Now” Lanyards Are Here!

Originally posted February 13, 2024

AFA Contract Now lanyards will be available from our Mobilization Volunteers and LEC Officers. Wear them as a show of solidarity with your flying partners and our Negotiating Committee in our fight for an industry leading contract. Report all supervisor interference with our solidarity activities by filling out a Management Interference Report on the Contract 2022 website or by clicking here.

Read More >

The Power of Unity: Our Day of Action and Strike Vote

Originally posted February 15, 2024

This week, thousands of Flight Attendants from across the industry showed up in full force to make history. We stood in complete solidarity, leaving no room for doubt, and demanded the contracts we’ve rightfully earned. Our strong and united voice sent a powerful message to management industrywide that we are done being undervalued and underappreciated. We won’t tolerate their stall tactics and disrespect any longer. We stand firm and will do whatever it takes to get a contract with the pay and work rule improvements we deserve. Management can no longer ignore our demands or play games with our livelihoods. We’ve made it crystal clear that we won’t back down until our voices are heard and our contracts are secured.

Read More >

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Join The Virtual Picket Line on February 13!

Originally posted February 11, 2024

If you’re scheduled to work on February 13 or won’t be able to make it to a picketing event in person, you can still participate in our Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action. Help turn up the heat on social media and take part in our virtual picket! 

Our Day of Action Is Tomorrow!

Originally posted February 12, 2024

Tomorrow, Flight Attendants worldwide are coming together like never before to fight corporate greed. Standing together, we’re making it clear to management that we demand better contracts and fair treatment and won’t back down. We’re more than 100,000 strong and ready to push our careers forward. Join us in solidarity and be a part of history as we picket at over 30 airports worldwide. It’s time to demand the respect we deserve!

Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action – Day of Event Information

Originally posted February 13, 2024

Tired of corporate greed and disrespect from management? It’s time to stand up and fight back!

Today is our Day of Action, and Flight Attendants from across the industry are coming together to participate in informational picketing events at over 30 airports worldwide. Check out this post for all the key details, including meeting points, times, and contact information for Alaska bases. Swipe through to find out more about the virtual picket and resources to participate.

Still have some questions or need more info? Head to the Day of Action event page at https://contract2022.afaalaska.org/feb-13-action and get all the answers you need. It’s time to come together and make our voices heard – let’s do this!

Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action Recap

Hundreds of Flight Attendants and allies came together in SFO and over 30 airports around the world today to make history. We stood in solidarity to bring attention to our collective struggle against corporate greed and to demand the contracts we have rightfully earned. Our strong and unified voice, and the announcement that Alaska Flight Attendants voted 99.48% to authorize a strike, sent a powerful message to management that we won’t tolerate stall tactics and disrespect any longer. Today was a testament to the power of standing together and fighting for what’s right!

See photos on Instagram from ANC, LAX, ONT, PDX, SAN, SEA, SFO, SNA >

Day of Action Recap

This is what solidarity looks like! Unions standing together are an unstoppable force that will not rest until we receive what we rightfully deserve. Our unwavering determination has already shown management that we are not to be underestimated. We will continue to fight until we secure a contract that truly reflects our value, and we will not settle for anything less. Workers united will never be divided!

Watch the Reel on Instagram >

Next Week’s Events

Tuesday, February 20Monthly Scheduling Committee Meeting
Thursday, February 22Quarterly Human Rights Committee Meeting

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!

Click here for more strike vote information or to cast your vote >

In This Edition

Hotel Committee Meeting Recap – 1st Quarter 2024

Originally posted February 6, 2024

On February 1, 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 and representatives from the company’s crew accommodations vendor 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 CrewCare. 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.

Read More >

One Week To Go: Our Strike Vote Closes on Tuesday, February 13

Originally posted February 6, 2024

As of this morning, 86% of Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants have participated in the Strike Authorization Vote. Don’t delay, VOTE today! Voting closes on Tuesday, February 13 at 12 PM PT. Mobilization Volunteers will be contacting anyone who didn’t respond during the initial Strike Vote Text Campaign to ask if they’ve voted and help with any questions.

Read More >

Alaska & Hawaiian MECs Meet To Discuss Proposed Merger

Originally posted February 6, 2024

On February 2, our AFA International President held a Constitutional Section X Merger meeting with the Alaska and Hawaiian Master Executive Councils (MECs) in Los Angeles. The Flight Attendant leadership from both airlines unanimously passed a resolution that sets clear demands to management for what is required if our Union is to support, rather than oppose, this merger. The Alaska and Hawaiian MECs will reconvene on March 25 for a status update and again on April 26 to review management’s action/inaction to determine whether our Union will support or oppose the proposed merger.

Read More >

Get Ready For Our Worldwide Day of Action – Tuesday, February 13

Originally posted February 6, 2024

Don’t forget to RSVP for our Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action informational picketing events next week on Tuesday, February 13. 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 >

Mediation Session 2

Originally posted February 9, 2024

This week was our second Mediation session with management and the mediator assigned by the National Mediation Board. We made progress on several outstanding provisions, including a tentative agreement on Section 9: Junior Available and Premium Open Time. Our next Mediation session is scheduled for April, and both parties plan to meet separately in March to prepare for future discussions.

Read More >

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Strike Vote Updates (Week 5)

6 Days To Go: 88% Participation

5 Days To Go: 89% Participation

4 Days To Go: 90% Participation

This is our last weekly Strike Vote recap before voting closes on Tuesday, February 13 at 12 PM! 90% of Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants have participated in the Strike Authorization Vote. Only 4 days left – make sure to vote before then! Mobilization Volunteers held additional base sits for a final voting push. Additional answers to recent questions about CHAOS™ are added to our Strike Vote FAQs.

See the Strike Vote Week 5 Recap on Instagram >

See the new FAQs on Instagram >

Next Week’s Events

Tuesday, February 13Strike Vote Closes @ 12 PM PT/3 PT ET
Tuesday, February 13Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action Informational Picketing
Wednesday, February 14Regular MEC Meeting
Thursday, February 15Scheduling Review Board (SRB)
Thursday, February 15Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR)

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!

Strike Vote
Request a new Activation Code Here      
Requests are processed M-F 0930 – 1700 EST 

Contact the Ballot Help Line   
1-844-232-2228 Ext 2
The Ballot Help Line can assist with 
error messages and technical difficulties
M-F 0930 – 1700 EST

Membership Services
1-844-232-2228 Ext. 3
https://www.afacwa.org/membership_services
M-F 0930 – 1700 EST


Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action!
Event will be held in ANC from 10:45am-12pm AKST
RSVP Here


***ANC LEC 30 Social***

12:30pm AKST Fancy Moose, The Lakefront Anchorage

4800 Spenard Road, Anchorage, AK   

Bring a change of clothes and join us!

Master Executive Council (MEC)

  • On February 2, our AFA International President held a Constitutional Section X Merger meeting with the Alaska and Hawaiian Master Executive Councils (MECs) in Los Angeles.
  • The Flight Attendant leadership from both airlines unanimously passed a resolution that sets clear demands to management for what is required if our Union is to support, rather than oppose, this merger.
  • The Alaska and Hawaiian MECs will reconvene on March 25 for a status update and again on April 26 to review management’s action/inaction to determine whether our Union will support or oppose the proposed merger.

On February 2, 2024, our International President convened the AFA-CWA Constitutional Section X Merger meeting with the Alaska and Hawaiian Master Executive Councils (MEC) in Los Angeles. This includes the directly elected Local Council Presidents and MEC Officers at each airline. Our AFA professionals from Legal, Collective Bargaining, Government Affairs, and Communications were in attendance to support the elected Flight Attendant representatives, as well as AFA’s financial analyst/economist. 

The group met to thoroughly review the details of the proposed merger, our Union’s merger policy and protections for Flight Attendants as well as a legal review of the merger process. Finally, we had a discussion about our support or opposition of the proposed Alaska-Hawaiian merger. 

Together the Flight Attendant leadership from both airlines unanimously passed a resolution that sets clear demands to management for what is required if our Union is to support, rather than oppose, this merger. The demands include: 

  1. The AFA Alaska industry leading contract management has promised.
  2. A merger protocol agreement with detailed protections for all Flight Attendants such as
    • “no furlough” protections, 
    • no displacements (everyone maintains their base assignment), 
    • a fence/metal agreement to protect the respective flying prior to the operational merger, 
    • an “adopt and go” / “adopt and amend” expedited joint contract negotiations that yields improvements for all Flight Attendants just like management and shareholders, 
    • and other protections specific to this proposed merger including AFA Representative involvement in safety and service modifications.

Read the full resolution > 

The Alaska and Hawaiian MECs will reconvene on March 25th for a status update, and again on April 26th, to review management’s action/inaction to determine whether our Union will support or oppose the proposed merger.

Action: RSVP for the Worldwide Day of Action next Tuesday, February 13th! 

AFA Alaska Strike Vote: Our solidarity is our power. Every Alaska Flight Attendant has a chance to back up our negotiators and make your voice heard with your strike vote. VOTE NOW and/or make sure your friends and flying partners have cast their votes. Visit the AFA Alaska Strike Vote page to get more info.  

Mergers are a long process with many steps. If this merger happens, it will not happen tomorrow, next week, next month, or maybe this year . We will keep you closely updated and involved throughout the process. If you have questions, take a look at the FAQ we compiled based on common questions. If your question isn’t there, let us know what’s on your mind so we can address it. 

Hotel Committee

  • On February 1, our AFA Hotel Committee Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing program of work to protect and improve the quality of hotel accommodations and ground transportation providers for Flight Attendants.
  • The Committee met with management and representatives from the Company’s crew accommodations vendor 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 CrewCare. 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.

On Thursday, February 1, our AFA Local Hotel Committee Chairpersons met 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), Kelly Hepworth (PDX), Cassie Dole (SFO), Chris Cardenas (LAX), and Kanani Vallot (SAN), with MEC Hotel Committee Chairperson James Bozanich also present.

The committee met with Crew Hotels & Administration Manager Nichole Turner, Director of Crew Planning Mike Ostler, Managing Director of Operations Staffing & Resource Management Brittany Audette, and Director of Inflight Crew Scheduling Sara Cook from management. Representatives from the Company’s crew accommodations vendor, Accommodations Plus International (API), and ALPA also participated in the meeting.

Topics of Discussion

The committee reviewed a number of items during the meeting with management and API.  Some items discussed include:

  • 2023 hotel and transportation year in review from API.
  • Hotel contract expirations and hotel site visit plan for 2024.
  • Discussion of the new MyCrewCare app update and what new features will be available to help crews on their layovers.
  • Enhanced CrewCare database access for Hotel Committee Chairpersons to better monitor crew compliments and complaints with our hotel and transportation providers.
  • Presentation of Alaska’s newly developed IROPS Playbook and what processes have been implemented to better address crew hotels and transportation during IROPS.

What The Committee Is Working On

  1. Conducting hotel site visits. Visiting hotels under consideration by management and advocating for management to select the hotel that will provide the safest and most comfortable layover experience for Flight Attendants. Our Hotel Committee conducted site visits in over 28 cities in 2023 and have so far scheduled 16 cities for 2024 with more anticipated.
  2. Investigating CrewCare reports. Reviewing CrewCare reports and working to hold hotel and transportation providers accountable through management and API. Your direct feedback fixes problems, and it’s the documentation we need to support the decisions to remain where we are or to advocate for a hotel change.

We Want to Hear From You!

Don’t let any unacceptable experience with a layover hotel or ground transportation provider go unnoticed! Please report the issue via CrewCare so that it can be addressed. CrewCare is the only official way to report issues, as the Hotel Committee does not monitor social media channels.

Each CrewCare submission is forwarded to your AFA Hotel Committee, Crew Hotels (AS), API and the hotel or ground transportation provider. This ensures quick action can be taken to correct the issue or fix it for the next crewmember. It also allows us to monitor hotel and transportation trends. You can quickly file a CrewCare report using the web app on your IMD home screen or by clicking here.

Do you have any other feedback you would like to share with the committee or any specific items you want us to bring up with management? Please let us know! The Local Hotel Committee is here to represent you and ensure management hears your voice. You can find our contact information on the Hotel Committee page of the AFA Alaska website.

Click here for more strike vote information or to cast your vote >

In This Edition

Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – January 2024

Originally posted January 29, 2024

On January 23, 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!

Read More >

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

Originally posted January 31, 2024

Today marks the 24th anniversary of a tragic event that deeply affects us all to this day. On this day, we lost Alaska Airlines Flight 261, flying between Puerto Vallarta and San Francisco, when it went down in the Pacific Ocean between Port Hueneme and Anacapa Island off the coast of Southern California. Our hearts go out to all those who lost loved ones on that fateful day, and we honor the memory of everyone who was on board.

We will always remember and honor the memory of Flight Attendants Kristin Mills, Craig Pulanco, and Allison Shanks; Captain Ted Thompson; First Officer William Tansky; Sheri Christensen, Rachel Janosik, Ileana Ost, Sarah Pearson, Anjesh Prasad, James Ryan, and Stacy Schuyler.

Read More >

Celebrating Black History Month

Originally posted February 1, 2024

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.

Read More >

Shared on Social

Are We Invisible? 

We are NOT invisible. In fact, we are the face of Alaska Airlines. It’s time to SEE US or see CHAOS. 

Watch Our Instagram Reel >

Have You Voted? 

Have you voted? Don’t wait until the last minute to show management we stand in unity. Vote FOR the Strike Authorization today! 

If you need a replacement code, visit https://afacwa-elections.org/request-new-activation-code

Strike Vote Update (Week 4)

Originally posted January 30, 2024

Have you voted yet? As of this morning, 82% of Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants have participated in the Strike Authorization Vote. Voting ends February 13 at 12 PST – make sure to vote FOR the Strike Authorization before voting closes!

Voting information: https://contract2022.afaalaska.org/strikevote/

Strike Vote Week 4 Recap

Originally posted February 2, 2024

Have you voted yet? As of this morning, 85% of Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants have participated in the Strike Authorization Vote. Our Mobilization Volunteers have been working hard providing information and assisting with the voting process. Tag your Strike Vote photo with #AFAAlaska #AlaskaFAContract #PayUsOrCHAOS !

Voting ends February 13 – make sure to vote FOR the Strike Authorization before voting closes!

Voting information: https://contract2022.afaalaska.org/strikevote/

Next Week’s Events

Tuesday, February 6 – Thursday, February 8Contract Negotiations

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

  • On January 23, 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 23, our AFA Scheduling 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 Heather Reier (ANC), Jaqui Bellenie (SFO), Rita Tillou (SEA), Melodie Anderes (PDX), Kamako Yamado (LAX), and Kitty Cohen (SAN). Also present were MEC Scheduling Committee Vice Chairperson—Pairing Construction Karen Ferrell, MEC Scheduling Committee Vice Chairperson—PBS Virginia Fritz, and MEC Scheduling Committee Chairperson Jake Jones.

The committee met with Managing Director Inflight Operations & Crew Scheduling Allen Thieman, Director of Crew Scheduling Sara Cook, Manager of Crew Planning Trisha Bennett, and other management representatives from Crew Planning/Crew Scheduling.

The Committee is next scheduled to meet on February 20, 2024.

Topics of Discussion

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

JCTE Update

  • Release 23.5 was released in prod, 23.7 is in UAT.
  • Trades: 92.1% of 57,580 trades had a response time of less than 10 seconds.
  • JCTE release coming in February.

Block2Block (B2B)

  • Version 2.5 is in progress.
  • Tap to pay feature.

Crew Planning Update

  • March block hours increased by almost 19k compared to February.
  • Staffing adjustment leaves offered for March: 173.
  • Reserve staffing: Bases around 17% except Seattle around 20%.
  • Review of trip length distribution, consistent with previous months.
  • Commutability in March: SEA/ANC have the best commutability, LAX and PDX are the most challenging.

Teaming And IROP Mitigation

  • Teaming FAs together and with pilots helped minimize cancellations.
  • In and backs strategically scheduled to assist with recovery of cancellations.
  • Teaming is not being used in spring/summer as the cost is too great. 

MAX Cancellations And Advanced Bookings

  • MAX cancellations ongoing, no adjustments made for March pairing selection. 

Updates From Crew Scheduling Management

  • Reserve utilization in January around 77%.
  • Breakdown of reserve usage: 48% covering line holder sick trips, 15.9% reserve absences, 22% unused.
  • Inflight YOY absence rate trending up, LAX/SAN trending down by domicile.
  • Premium not issued since MAX fleet grounded, FAs picking up trips to cover operation.
  • Flexibility impacted by unknown factors, no increases in TSN.
  • Personal drops: 90 in January, 7 Bulletin board drops.

PDX SWGCO And Crew Scheduling

  • 26 FAs couldn’t get to work and have FNS, each case will be reviewed.
  • Efforts made for process improvement, high hold times during pre-cancellations.

Layover And Transportation Issues

  • LAX crew had issues getting back to the hotel, will review and try to accommodate crews closer.
  • Issues with single transportation and long wait times in CUN/GDL, to be reviewed by Crew Planning.
  • Confusion about layovers at domicile vs hotels being provided prior to trips, clarification needed.

Withholding Trips, Pre-Cancellations, And FNS

  • Trips withheld from OT, efforts to address the issue and ensure compliance.
  • Discussion on pre-cancellation processes and FCR footprint, modifications planned.
  • We are seeing an Increased number of FNS, clarification needed on contactability and communication procedures.

CHS-RDU Limo Times

  • Request to review extensively long limo times in all locations. 

What the Committee is Working on

  1. NavBlue. The PBS Committee 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. There are dates and times scheduled February 2024 for in person and virtual meetings to assist with bidding. 
  2. Pairings Survey. There is a discussion about conducting a survey on pairing construction, and there is a possibility of organizing a virtual session or town hall. A meeting with management occurred June 5, 2023, with a follow-up meeting to be arranged. However, there is no update or estimated time of arrival (ETA) at the moment.
  3. Teaming. Crew Planning is currently reviewing pairing construction and optimizing teaming strategies to minimize costs and ensure that crews (pilots and Flight Attendants) can stay together for multiple segments. Currently, the system teams around 10-15% of crews, but enhancements were made to increase this to 20-35% for winter operations. The changes were reflected in December pairings. Management provided communication regarding teaming. In December 2023, approximately 23% of sequences were teamed together, while 52% of duty periods were teamed. We didn’t receive any teaming information for January during the meeting today. For March 2024 pairing selection we did not utilize teaming.  
  4. Chime Communications. Flight Attendants may chat with crew scheduling via app/Microsoft Teams to reduce phone calls. Flight Attendant-initiated contact. Early stages of development, to be discussed with AS Labor Relations and AFA. Testing and implementation to occur in the next few weeks. We are working on a letter of agreement for implementation. This is still pending review. 
  5. Crew Scheduling. There was a monthly review of PowerPoint presentations that 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.
  6. Crew Planning. Similar to Crew Scheduling, there was a monthly review of PowerPoint presentations that cover subsequent month staffing, trip length distribution, Flight Attendant block hours, special initiatives (e.g., IROPs), commutability, and other relevant agenda items.
  7. ITS. Representatives from ITS joined the scheduling meeting to provide updates on NavBlue, Crew Access, internal systems, and Block 2 Block. 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.

Click here for more strike vote information or to cast your vote >

In This Edition

Strike Vote Text Campaign

Originally posted January 22, 2024

Tomorrow we are launching our Strike Vote Text Campaign to encourage Flight Attendants to vote FOR the Strike Authorization. Be on the lookout for a text from a Mobilization Volunteer in your base. Let them know you’ve voted or ask any questions you have about the vote. Let’s get 100% participation and 100% FOR the Strike Authorization! Together, we can send a unified message to management: Pay Us Or CHAOS™!

Read More >

Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee Meeting Recap – 1st Quarter 2024

Originally posted January 23, 2024

On January 4, 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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Strike Vote Virtual Roadshow Recap

Originally posted January 24, 2024

Our Negotiating Committee held four Strike Vote Virtual Roadshows last week. The Committee discussed the Strike Authorization Vote and provided a brief overview of our current negotiations status. The Railway Labor Act was discussed, as well as our reasons for holding a strike vote. Attendees during each session were able to ask questions directly to the Negotiating Committee, our AFA Senior Staff Negotiator, AFA Staff Attorney, and AFA International Director of Collective Bargaining.

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Mediation Session 1

Originally posted January 26, 2024

This week was our first Mediation session with management and the mediator assigned by the National Mediation Board. The bulk of this session was taken up with introductions, explaining the status of negotiations to the mediator, and setting expectations for mediation. We agreed to several provisions, including 10.X. Deadhead, and discussed others that should be relatively easy to resolve.

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Update on the 737-9 MAX

Originally posted January 26, 2024

The FAA grounded 737-9 MAXs on January 6th, following the Alaska Flight 1282 accident. This week, the FAA issued required inspection and maintenance protocols for airlines to return the aircraft to service. Alaska will return the aircraft to service Friday and United will return the aircraft to regularly scheduled service on Sunday. 

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Strike Vote Update (Week 3)

Originally posted January 23, 2024

As of this morning, 70.6% of Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants have participated in the Strike Authorization Vote – have you?? Voting ends February 13 – make sure to vote FOR the Strike Authorization before voting closes!

Voting information: https://contract2022.afaalaska.org/strikevote/                   

Have You Voted?

Have you voted? Don’t wait until the last minute to show management we stand in unity. Vote FOR the Strike Authorization today!  

If you need a replacement code, click here.

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Strike Vote Week 3 Recap

Originally posted January 26, 2024

As of this morning, 78% of Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants have participated in the Strike Authorization Vote – have you? Our Mobilization Volunteers around the system provided information and assisted with the voting process. Tag your Strike Vote photo with #AFAAlaska #AlaskaFAContract #PayUsOrCHAOS !

Voting ends February 13 – make sure to vote FOR the Strike Authorization before voting closes!

Voting information: https://contract2022.afaalaska.org/strikevote/

Next Week’s Events

Thursday, February 1Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR)

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!

SEA Domicile Negotiations Update – February 2026

This message is for pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants SEA Domicile May Vacancy Posting The company has posted vacancies for the SEA domicile. There are 121 permanent vacancies available, effective May 1, 2026 for the May bid month. Bids will close at 11:59 PM HT on Monday, February 16. Awards will be posted by 12:00 PM […]

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

On Wednesday, January 28, our AFA Local Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing work to represent our Flight Attendants and push for improvements in our workplace. Representing you at the meeting were Deb Wallstrom (ANC), David Lake (SEA), Kalin Lackey (PDX), Brad Young (SFO & MEC ASHSC Vice […]

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

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

Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – January 2026

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants On Tuesday, January 27, our pre-merger Alaska AFA Scheduling Committee Chairpersons and Representatives met virtually to discuss their ongoing work to represent our Flight Attendants and push for improvements in our workplace. Representing you at the meeting were Heather Reier (ANC), Rita Tillou (SEA), Melodie Anderes (PDX), […]

Celebrating Black History Month

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

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