AFA Alaska + Hawaiian

Representing the Flight Attendants of Alaska + Hawaiian

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On Monday, April 13, our AFA Local Hotel Committee Chairpersons met virtually 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 pmAS), Kelly Hepworth (PDX), Barry Spitzer (SFO), Brian Sherill (LAX pmAS), and Kanani Vallot (SAN), with MEC Hotel Committee Chairperson James Bozanich facilitating the meeting.

The Committee met with Director of Crew Planning Trisha Bennett, Manager of Crew Hotel and Administration Diane Szubert, and Crew Hotels Support Specialist LaFay Williams.

Our next monthly meeting with management is scheduled for Monday, May 11.

Topics of Discussion

  • Final Hotel Decisions: Management has finalized hotel decisions for PHL, MKE, IAD, and PSP. This information will be communicated in April’s Hotel Informational Bulletin, as we cannot publicly disclose the names of our crew hotels.
  • API Challenges: We spend most of our meeting addressing challenges with our hotel vendor, API. Some of the items are Hotel Committee facing (site visit schedules, hotel bids (RFPs) with incorrect information, sourcing timelines, etc.), and other issues are Flight Attendant facing (missing newly contracted hotels in MyCrewCare, discrepancies with system van times, etc.). Crew Hotels took detailed notes during our meetings and will follow up with API for resolution.
  • Ground Transportation GPS Tracking: We have communicated before that a number of our ground transportation providers have GPS-enabled vans. The MyCrewCare app will eventually have this feature integrated. In the meantime, we have asked for the specific standalone apps or websites where crews can currently get this information. Our goal is to have this information posted with April’s Informational Bulletin.  

Overheard on the Jetbridge

We’re aware of a rumor circulating on social media suggesting that we’re planning to leave one of our key KOA properties. We want to confirm that this isn’t true. In fact, our Hotel Committee has requested the renewal of the contract with this property and has inquired about the possibility of securing higher food discounts for Flight Attendants as part of the renewal negotiations.

We’re unsure of the rumor’s exact origin, though it may have stemmed from a comment made by an individual from another workgroup. Both AFA and ALPA maintain Hotel Committees dedicated to advocating for their Members’ needs. While the committees collaborate closely, preferences for specific properties can occasionally differ between the two groups. Our Hotel Committee always puts Flight Attendants first and will keep pushing for the hotels that work best for us.

Important Reminders

  • Conducting a Site Visit ≠ Leaving a Property: Doing a site visit doesn’t mean we’re planning to leave a property. As we mention each month, conducting a site visit in a market isn’t a sign that we’re getting ready to leave an existing hotel.
  • Positive Feedback Matters: We’ve recently heard a lot of good things about this property. Please keep sharing your compliments about hotels you like via CrewCare—your feedback helps both the Hotel Committee and the hotel know they’re doing a great job.
  • Your Representatives are Available: Your Local Hotel Committee is always here to answer your questions. If you hear rumors, it’s best to skip the gossip and ask us directly.

What The Committee Is Working On

1. Conducting Hotel Site Visits: The Hotel Committee conducts site visits on hotels under consideration by management to ensure that the selected options provide the safest and most comfortable layover experience for Flight Attendants. Market reviews are triggered by factors such as contract expirations, crew complaints, and cost-saving opportunities.  

Pre-Merger Alaska: We have been provided the site visit schedule for 2026, and it’s quite extensive. Additional site visits may be added due to the conditions listed above. The scheduled site visits through June 2027 are:

  • April: DFW, EWR, JFK
  • May: PHX, ATL
  • June: OGG, RNO, BOS
  • July: BWI

Pre-Merger Hawaiian: The scheduled site visits through June 2026 are:

  • April: SYD, LAX
  • June: JFK

2. Hotel Gainshare Update (pmAS): The Gainshare program negotiations are currently stalled because management is concerned about the federal tax implications. AFA International was consulted and provided a legal counterargument. We’re waiting for AFA International to coordinate with Alaska Airlines Labor Relations management on this. Our goal is to reach a consensus and finalize the program’s negotiations. We recognize that many of our Members are interested in this program, and we’re doing everything we can to make it a reality.  

We Want to Hear From You!

Our Hotel Committee relies on your feedback, whether positive or negative. Please report via CrewCare (pmAS) or the FA Crew Accommodations Feedback form (pmHA), which ensures your experience with a layover hotel or ground transportation is addressed. These are the only official way to report issues, as the Committee does not monitor social media channels.

Each CrewCare and feedback form submission is forwarded to our AFA Hotel Committee, Crew Hotels (Alaska/Hawaiian management), API, and the hotel or ground transportation provider. This ensures quick action can be taken to correct or fix the issue for the next crew member. It also allows us to monitor hotel and transportation trends. Pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants 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! Your 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 + Hawaiian website.

Tonight, the Alaska and Hawaiian merger will reach another major milestone—the integration of both airlines into a single passenger service computer system (PSS). While this change will affect Flight Attendants less than other groups—like Customer Service Agents and airport staff—there are still important updates you should know.

Block2Block App and Onboard Service

Pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants will now use the Block2Block (B2B) app to access flight and passenger information and conduct onboard sales. Here’s what that means:

  • Onboard sales will now be transacted using B2B using the new card readers that were distributed over the past few months.
  • Elite status recognition begins.
  • Catering reports will now be submitted using B2B, via the “catering and service feedback” tab found under your selected flight.

Additionally, Extra Comfort on pre-merger Hawaiian aircraft will transition to Premium Class starting tomorrow, aligning with the existing Alaska Premium Class experience.

Employee Travel

Starting tomorrow, Hawaiian Airlines flights will move to the FLY website. All Air Group employees will use FLY to list for Alaska, Hawaiian, and Horizon flights, streamlining the process for everyone.

For employee travel, pre-merger Alaska aircraft are the Boeing 737 fleet, and pre-merger Hawaiian aircraft are all Boeing 717, Airbus A321, Airbus A330, and Boeing 787 aircraft.

Travel Seniority

Both pre-merger Alaska and Hawaiian employees can now travel on all mainline aircraft with the same boarding priority. Standby list order will be determined by company seniority (year of hire), and if multiple employees have the same hire year, check-in time will determine priority.

It’s important to note that travel seniority is based on company (Alaska/Hawaiian) seniority and is not part of the seniority merger integration process, which is taking place separately to merge the Alaska and Hawaiian Flight Attendant seniority lists. The merged Flight Attendant seniority list is a separate entity that will only be released once we reach and ratify a joint collective bargaining agreement (JCBA). 

Jumpseats

Pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants will no longer use ID90 to list for jumpseat travel. All jumpseat listings should now be made through FLY. Once you are listed, approach the Customer Service Agent (CSA) at the gate to request the jumpseat. Jumpseats will be awarded in Flight Attendant seniority order until 30 minutes prior to departure, after which any remaining jumpseats will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.

Due to differences in our current collective bargaining agreements, Flight Attendants may only jumpseat on their respective pre-merger carrier’s aircraft. Pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants are limited to pre-merger Alaska aircraft, and pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants are limited to pre-merger Hawaiian aircraft. This policy will remain until a joint collective bargaining agreement (JCBA) is reached and ratified.

Pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants will also continue to be able to jumpseat on Horizon Air aircraft and vice versa. The ability to jumpseat on Horizon Air aircraft does not extend to pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants at this time.

Commuters

Even with a single PSS and shared travel platform, commuter policies and benefits remain tied to each pre-merger contract. These will stay separate until a joint collective bargaining agreement (JCBA) is in place.

Pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants who are registered commuters will continue to use the commuter boarding priority (D8) on pre-merger Alaska aircraft only (including flights operated by SkyWest for Alaska Airlines). The commuter boarding priority does not extend to pre-merger Hawaiian aircraft. FLY will not permit a pre-merger Alaska commuting Flight Attendants to list using the commuter boarding priority on pre-merger Hawaiian aircraft.

Please note: FLY may display a Boeing 787 flight as an Alaska-branded flight, even when the aircraft belongs to the pre-merger Hawaiian fleet. Currently, Boeing 787s are mostly scheduled for Asia and Europe routes but also operate select flights between HNL and SEA and may appear elsewhere, especially during irregular operations. If you commute between HNL and SEA, check the aircraft type before listing to confirm whether it’s a pre-merger Alaska or Hawaiian aircraft.

Pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants who are commuters will continue to be able to use the provisions in the CBA/commuter policy LOA (section 34-28). Pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants can utilize the commuter policy LOA when traveling on pre-merger Alaska aircraft.

Kindness and Patience

Integrating two complex computer systems while keeping the airline running is a major challenge. Customer Service Agents and airport operations employees will be at the forefront of this transition, especially at stations new to the system. Please continue to show patience and kindness in all your interactions with them—whether you’re working a flight, commuting to or from work, or non-reving using your travel benefits.

Questions?

If you have any questions about the changes associated with single PSS, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your LEC Officers.

In This Edition

  • Navigating Acute & Delayed Stress As A Flight Attendant
  • Next Week’s Events

Navigating Acute & Delayed Stress As A Flight Attendant

Originally posted April 14, 2026

From turbulent skies to unexpected emergencies, Flight Attendants face high-pressure situations that test our resilience every day. Understanding the unique stresses of our profession—and how to spot their warning signs—is the first step toward staying healthy and prepared both on and off the job.

Read More >

Next Week’s Events

Tuesday, April 21Monthly Scheduling Committee Meeting (pmAS)
Wednesday, April 22Monthly Communications Committee Meeting
Thursday, April 23Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) (pmAS)

See the MEC Event Calendar >

Hi everyone,

I want to take a moment to provide some clarity around recent conversations regarding the Alaska AFL-CIO and how endorsements work within our structure.

First, the Alaska AFL-CIO is the state’s largest labor organization, representing over 50,000 workers across more than 50 unions, including ours. Together, we work through this federation to advance the interests of working people across Alaska through advocacy, education, and political engagement.

As part of this role, there is ongoing work throughout the year. Much of that work is carried out through our Government Affairs Committee, which is structured to engage in these efforts on behalf of the Council. This can include sharing information with members, participating in labor discussions, supporting issue-based advocacy, and coordinating with other unions on matters that impact working people across Alaska.

This structure allows responsibilities to be shared, which means officers may not always be in attendance at every event. That said, there are key moments, like the Alaska AFL-CIO convention, where officer participation is important. These are the settings where formal representation of the council takes place, including voting and involvement in the endorsement process, which are responsibilities of officers.  This is done with input and feedback from our GA Committee, as they have been engaged in that work throughout the year. 

Political endorsements are just one part of the overall work of the AFL-CIO.  Endorsements are determined through an Alaska AFL-CIO process that takes place later in the summer in connection with their convention. That process includes candidate vetting, input from affiliated unions, and a collective decision made by labor organizations, not by any one individual or local council.

I want to be clear that I have not made any endorsement decisions at this time, and that process has not yet taken place.

As your elected representative, my role in that process is to represent our membership thoughtfully and in alignment with the broader labor movement. In past cycles, that has meant aligning with the recommendations of both the Alaska AFL-CIO and Association of Flight Attendants-CWA Government Affairs after candidates have gone through a formal vetting process. It’s also worth noting that endorsed candidates have come from both sides of the aisle, based on their support for labor and working people.

I also recognize that our membership spans a wide range of political perspectives, and that’s something I take seriously. While there are times within our structure where votes may be split to reflect that diversity, endorsement decisions are made collectively through labor organizations with a focus on supporting candidates who are committed to workers’ rights.

If you have questions about the process, I’m always happy to help clarify.

In Solidarity,

LeiLauni

After a recent meeting with ANC base leadership, we would like to share the following information:

  • There is an increase in Uniform Checks, which will include all required items also. (card reader, key, badges etc.)
  • The Airport will be monitoring the parking lot again and enforcing the 7 day limit.  Also, we are to only park in the lot when working. (not vacay etc…)
  • Flight Attendants must pick up their new badge by April 21, 2026.  If on a leave or out of town, please reach out to base to make arrangements.
  • Flight Attendants are not to hold boarding for the cleaners to be completely finished. This became the practice during Covid, but is no longer the requirement.
  • The FAA is going to be aboard our planes and asking about Hazmat. Flight Attendants do not need to know the answers off the top of their head, but they do need to demonstrate how to access the information in the FAM. The FAA will be verifying that the FAM is updated and current.  It is okay to ask the FAA representative for their badge to verify. They welcome that step. Reminder also that FAA can board at any time with no min crew requirements…(appropriate to ask for badge).

If you have questions regarding any of the above, please reach out to your LEC Officers at anc@afaalaska.org.

In Solidarity,


LeiLauni, Heather and Annie

Stress is an inherent aspect of the Flight Attendant profession, often stemming from the demanding nature of responsibilities and the unpredictable nature of air travel. It’s essential for Flight Attendants not only to understand the different types of stress they may encounter but also to recognize the warning signs of acute and delayed stress for effective stress management.

Acute Stress: Turbulence in the Mind

Acute stress is like sudden turbulence during a flight—an unexpected and intense event that can disrupt the normal flow of operations. Flight Attendants may experience acute stress during emergency situations, unruly passenger incidents, or unexpected flight delays. This type of stress triggers the body’s fight-or-flight response, leading to physiological changes such as a rapid heartbeat, shallow breathing, and gastrointestinal discomfort.

Physical Symptoms of Acute Stress:

  • Heightened heart rate
  • Nausea or stomach cramps
  • Rapid breathing

Cognitive Impact of Acute Stress:

  • Impaired decision-making
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Emotional reactivity

Delayed Stress: The Quiet Aftermath

Delayed stress, much like a delayed flight, doesn’t manifest immediately but can have lasting effects. Flight Attendants may experience delayed stress after particularly challenging flights, traumatic incidents, or extended periods of high stress. This type of stress can be confusing as it emerges after the initial event has passed, potentially catching individuals off guard. Symptoms of delayed stress include:

  • Persistent feelings of anxiety or unease
  • Intrusive thoughts or flashbacks related to the stressful event
  • Difficulty sleeping or concentrating

Proactive Stress Management Strategies

Flight Attendants can adopt various strategies to manage stress effectively and maintain their well-being amidst the challenges of their profession.

Self-Care Practices:

  • Regular exercise and physical activity
  • Adequate rest and sleep
  • Mindfulness or relaxation techniques

Seek Support:

  • Utilize your AFA EAP
  • Connect with peer support groups or mental health resources

Set Boundaries

  • Establishing work-life balance
  • Learn to say no to additional responsibilities when feeling overwhelmed

Remember, our AFA Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee is here to support you. Reach out for confidential assistance, resources, and guidance tailored to your needs at (949) 470-0493 or (800) 424-2406.

This message is for pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants

We invite you to join us for our next webinar on April 14th at 11:00 AM HST, hosted by your Membership Chair, Phyllis Lau & your Benefits Chair, Rachel Fernandez. This will be a great opportunity to learn more about the new AFA Membership Hub, Team AAG and come with any questions you may have. You may also pre-submit any questions during registration.

Please be sure to register using your personal email address on file with the union, as company emails will not be accepted. All members in good standing are invited to attend. Click here to register.

Mahalo for all that you do, and we hope to see you there.

In Solidarity,
LEC 43 Communications Committee

REGISTER HERE >>>

In This Edition

  • Protect Yourself From Potential Discipline on Social Media
  • Shared on Social
  • Next Week’s Events

Protect Yourself From Potential Discipline on Social Media

Originally posted April 10, 2026

Think what you say on private social media groups or your personal account is secret? Even behind closed groups or privacy settings, your social media posts, comments, and reactions can affect your job, so it’s smart to know the rules before you hit ‘post.’

Read More >

Shared on Social

Check out this week’s highlights from our social media! Click on a graphic below to view the original post on Instagram. Be sure to follow us for the latest updates and news as we share it!

Originally posted April 8, 2026

Next Week’s Events

Monday, April 13Monthly Hotel Committee Meeting
Tuesday, April 14 – Thursday, April 16Regular MEC Meeting
Thursday, April 16LEC Officer Elections: Nominations Close –Council 19 (SEA pmAS), Council 39 (PDX), Council 43 (HNL)
Thursday, April 16Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) (pmAS)

See the MEC Event Calendar >

Our Grievance Committee would like to provide background on social media, protected classes, and discipline.

Federal protected classes include race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, or transgender status), national origin, age, disability, or genetic information. 

Alaska’s People Policy says:

Personal Conduct
22. Threatening, intimidating, or discourteous behavior, including abusive, profane, or obscene language, acts, or gestures, to guests or employees at any time will not be tolerated.
23. Any form of harassment or discrimination based on a Protected Characteristic is prohibited.

Flight Attendants have also faced discipline under the Social Media section of the People Policy.

Alaska Airlines management has disciplined for posts made in Flight Attendant-run social media groups such as Galley Tea, Patriots with Wings, and others, as well as Flight Attendants’ personal pages, even with very little to show that the poster was a Flight Attendant employed by the company.  In fact, an arbitrator upheld discipline, although there was very little evidence on the Flight Attendant’s personal page to identify them as a company employee.  

We know the world feels unsettled right now, and even within our group, people have strong and different opinions. Still, management continues to issue discipline when company policies are broken, no matter what is happening in the news. Depending on the nature and severity of an incident, outcomes may range from a warning to suspension, or even termination. It’s important to be aware that violations of company policy, whether on social media or in other contexts, can result in a wide range of disciplinary actions.

Most Flight Attendants who were disciplined for social media posts were reported by co-workers. Usually, the person reporting did not want anyone fired—they just wanted the post taken down or prevented from happening again. Instead of going straight to management, you can contact AFA Professional Standards for help. You can find their contact information on the EAP/Professional Standards Committee page of the AFA Alaska + Hawaiian website. The Committee can help facilitate resolution between Flight Attendants without management involvement. Sometimes, taking some breathing room and understanding can help the situation.  

We may not always agree, but everyone wants a respectful and positive workplace. Both AFA and Alaska have rules about treating others with respect at work and online. Please think carefully before posting or commenting on social media and be considerate in your interactions with other Flight Attendants and passengers. If you avoid posting or commenting on things that could break company policy, you can avoid problems.

If you have questions, please contact your Local Grievance Committee or LEC Officers.

This message is for pre-merger Hawaiian Flight Attendants

Easter is a time to celebrate life and renewal, and gives us an opportunity to reflect on what is important to us.

This Easter many of our hearts are heavy with thoughts of friends we lost too soon. With our busy lives and so many changes at work, it can be easy to overlook the little things that mean a lot to us. This Easter is a gentle reminder to take a moment to cherish every story, laugh, and hug we share with one another – the memories we will keep forever.

May this Easter bring you and your loved one’s peace and joy.

In Solidarity,

Martin Gusman & Kela Chong

Uniform Committee Meeting Recap – 2nd Quarter 2026

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants On Tuesday, May 5, our pre-merger Alaska AFA Uniform Committee Chairpersons met to discuss their ongoing work to represent Flight Attendants and push for improvements in the workplace. Representing you at the meeting were Kim Mazzolini (ANC), Dena Heath (SEA), Bob Moore (PDX), Slater Areno (SFO), Heather […]

Crew Meal Survey Now Open

Crew meals are an important aspect of supporting the health and effectiveness of Flight Attendants. As part of ongoing efforts to enhance these provisions, the JNC is collecting feedback from Flight Attendants. Your participation in the Crew Meal Survey will directly influence future meal standards and help ensure that your needs and preferences are represented.

Navigating Recovery: Understanding FADAP and Other Support Options

If you’ve ever questioned your relationship with drugs or alcohol, it’s important to know that you are not alone, and support is available. Flight Attendants have treatment options designed to address the unique realities of this career. Note: This video references FAAS (Flight Attendant Addiction Support), which is a program for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants. […]

Go In-Depth with Our AFA EAP/Professional Standards Committee Chairpersons

As we wrap up the first week of EAP/Professional Standards Committee Focus Month, we’re excited to share an open conversation that takes you behind the scenes of our support network built for Flight Attendants. MEC Communications Committee Chairperson Brian Palmer recently sat down with pre-merger Alaska MEC EAP/Professional Standards Committee Chairperson Melanie Buker and Vice Chairperson Elizabeth Dillon to […]

Grievance Committee Update – 2nd Quarter 2026

This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants Our Grievance Committee is committed to supporting you by ensuring fair disciplinary procedures and upholding our contractual rights. Our contract guarantees at least 13 arbitration dates each year to address both disciplinary and contractual matters. Termination cases are typically prioritized to help Flight Attendants return to work […]

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