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    You are here: Home / Archives for KCM

    Setting the Record Straight on KCM Rumors

    December 2, 2022 14:00

    AFA International

    • Though the name of the KCM program is changing, it is not going away and will continue to offer the same risk based alternate screening for crewmembers.
    • The program will transition to full oversight by the TSA which had been planned for some time.
    • Crewmembers can help ensure the continued success of the program by fully complying with all program rules and regulations.  Do not carry prohibited items or another person’s property through KCM access points and do not use KCM when any portion of your travel itinerary contains personal international travel.

    Unfounded rumors and blogs have been swirling this week about the future Known Crew Member. Let’s set the record straight.

    KCM is NOT going away, even if there is a name change to the program. The same risk based alternate screening for crew will remain in place.

    TSA will continue the planned transition of the agency’s full oversight of the program – previously it has been administered by A4A and ALPA.

    Official statement from TSA:

    TSA is continuously working with our aviation partners to ensure Known Crewmember® Program (KCM) compliance. KCM is a risk-based security program that provides eligible crewmembers with an alternative entry point into the airport sterile area, which may be separate from the passenger security-screening lanes. TSA has been exploring options to continue to modernize operations of the program as it transitions to assume complete oversight of the program capabilities and operations. This transition will continue over the next few years. TSA will continue to work with our industry partners to seek ways to minimize compliance violations and ensure eligible crewmembers are utilizing the program as it was intended.

    That said, random screenings will continue. Crew should expect that this will especially increase as there are violations of the program. KCM is a privilege – not a right. It is critical that we continue to encourage crew to follow the rules of the program.

    TSA continues to see a steady rate of KCM compliance violations in three main categories.

    • Prohibited Items: The items that you can or cannot bring through the secured area may be found in the Prohibited Items List on the TSA website. The only exemption allowed for Flight Attendants while in uniform is from the 3-1-1 Liquids, Aerosols and Gels rule. Every Flight Attendant should check to ensure that they have not inadvertently left a prohibited item in their belongings before they bring them to the KCM entry point.  If you have questions about whether an item is prohibited, refer to the TSA website.
    • Other Person’s Property: KCM may be used for the crewmember and their personal property only.
    • Personal International Travel: KCM regulations explicitly prohibit use for personal international travel.

    Every Flight Attendant should check to ensure that they have not inadvertently left a prohibited item in their belongings before they bring them to the KCM entry point. Your cooperation will strengthen the crew screening program for the benefit of all.

    Filed Under: AFA Alaska News Now Tagged With: KCM, Known Crewmember

    Council 35 News – June 2022

    July 1, 2022 23:11


    Important Dates

    June 30: Q2 CBT Due Today!


    SFO KCM is Back!

    Due to TSA staffing issues, the Terminal 2 Known Crewmember (KCM) entrance has returned to the D gates entrance, just past the restrooms.  Important reminders for KCM card holders:

    • Only bring your own belongings through KCM checkpoint
    • No weapons allowed through KCM (should be an obvious one!)
    • No personal international travel

    Violations of the KCM rules can result in suspension of privileges, not just for the offending FA but everyone!  TSA has issued a warning to participating airlines that a recent increase in violations has prompted them to increase random checks and to have TSA inspectors present at checkpoints. Inspectors may ask cardholders questions about the program to ensure understanding and enforce compliance. Please be aware of the rules and give extra time to go through checkpoints.  For more information visit the  KCM website.

    From the KCM website:

    Crewmember’s can utilize the KCM® access points for both business and personal use except when on personal international travel. Crewmember’s on personal international travel must use a passenger-screening checkpoint. If international travel is included on any leg of an itinerary, the entire trip is considered international and KCM may not be used for access to the sterile area. Travel from the U.S. to a destination which does not require a passport (e.g., U.S. Virgin Islands) is not considered international travel.

    Welcome to SFO!

    Council 35 members, please give our newest Flight Attendants a warm welcome and be sure to show them all that we love about SFO! If you’re a new hire or transfer to SFO, please be sure to sign up to receive Council 35 newsletters, like this one, and be sure to save links to Council 35 committee resources for future reference. 

    Committee Openings

    Committee member openings in the following committees:

    Government Affairs (chair)

    Human Rights (chair)

    Members interested in these positions may submit a letter of interest to sfo@afaalaska.org 

    Scheduling Update

    by Virginia Fritz, Council 35 Vice President-Elect and Scheduling Chair

    August ORD Turns

    Our AFA Pairing Analyst fights hard against management every month to advocate that we have ORD 4K turns built in our base. Unfortunately, Crew scheduling has requested they not be built as a turn in August because of historical issues causing delays over 14 hour duty days, thereby allowing FA’s to opt out and snowballing reserve usage. This means that we do not expect to have any 4K ORD turns in August. We will continue to advocate for their return.

    SFO 3 day Redeyes

    We’ve gotten a lot of feedback that the 3 day redeyes with 24 hour rest are not very popular and we frequently find them in our base. Many are awarded to Junior lineholders for coverage in PBS showing they are not very desirable. While we request that management attempt to build us 2 day “day sleep” Redeye Pairings the flight schedule does not always allow those to be legally built with the 10 hours necessary layover rest. We have found that the JFK schedule could allow some to be built and have asked for those flight numbers specifically to be built together when possible going forward. We have not been able to find a flight schedule on other city layovers that would allow that. Please reach out to the scheduling committee if you find specific flight examples that could create the desired 2 day Redeye pairings so that we can add those to our soft lock requests going forward!

    Hotel Wait Times

    Summer travel is upon us and we aren’t the only industry that is impacted. Hotels are selling out and management is sometimes finding itself scrambling to find us rooms. If your rooms are not ready when you are checking in please reach out to crew scheduling to let them know. Keep them updated with any changes and definitely let them know when you have finally been given a room. We have been successful in requesting compensation for Flight attendants who have had to wait more than an hour for their hotel rooms. Calling Crew Scheduling allows us to verify the time stamps in your delays and ensure we can fight to get you any compensation you may be due for the delay.

    Council 35 Grievance Update: Six-Month Stats

    The first half of 2022 has been the busiest 2 quarters since 2017!  To date we have had 33 disciplines:

    Oral Warnings: 13
    Written Warning: 5
    Suspension: 3
    Terminations: 12 

    Compared to last year we have seen discipline rates more than double.  Below is a summary of the issues that resulted in discipline YTD: 


    Issue Summary
    #Cases
    CBT9
    Job Abandonment*5
    Personal Conduct*4
    Commuter Violation3
    12+ Points*2
    Late to Plane/Delay2
    Delay2
    Uniform1
    Social Media1
    Sick Leave Abuse*1
    Reserve Out of Base*1
    Insubordination1
    Expired Leave of Absence*1
    Total33

    *termination

    This also summarizes the number of grievances filed, as the Grievance Committee files grievances on all discipline issued.

    Got a question?

    Contact information for Council 35 committee members can be found on our website.  You can also open an online support ticket and the appropriate rep will respond.

    In solidarity,

    Council 35 Officers

    Melissa Osborne, President
    Virginia Fritz, Vice-President Elect
    James Ikehara, Secretary
    Brad Young, Council Representative


    Melissa Osborne, LEC President •  Melissa.osborne@afaalaska.org • 415-275-1322
    James Ikehara, LEC Secretary •  James.ikehara@afaalaska.org  • 415-289-9011
    Bradley Young, Council Representative • Bradley.young@afaalaska.org • 916-508-3503

    Filed Under: Council 35 SFO Tagged With: 4k, Council 35, Government Affairs, Human Rights Committee, KCM, Newsletter, SFO

    Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update – March 19, 2020

    March 19, 2020 15:30

    In This Edition

    • Ongoing Conversations With Management
    • FAA & CDC Recommendations for Layovers
    • Crew-Only Layover Hotel Transportation
    • Tell Congress: Put Aviation Workers First
    • KCM Access Point Staffing
    • Challenges with Onboard Trash Stowage
    • Taking Control of Your Finances During a Loss of Flying
    • Telephone Support Group For Flight Attendants Under Self-Quarantine
    • COVID-19 Resources

    Ongoing Conversations With Management

    AFA and management are continuing to have active, ongoing discussions regarding a number of issues of importance to our Flight Attendants.

    Inflight Service Changes

    Yesterday, Executive Vice President and COO Gary Beck sent out an email outlining a series of reductions and changes to inflight service intended as mitigations to COVID-19.  Our AFA officers have received resounding feedback that these mitigations do not take enough action to protect our Flight Attendants from possible risks.  Discussions between AFA representatives and management to advocate for more drastic service reductions are continuing today.

    Recurrent Training

    Members of the AFA Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC), Inflight Training Committee, and the MEC have been engaging in conversation with management over the past week to advocate for protective measures related to recurrent training (RT) and the RT facilities.  Based on those discussions, management has taken steps to implement measures such as a pre-class briefing on COVID-19 precautions being taken, increased the frequency of training equipment sanitization, provided hand sanitizer to be used before and after touching equipment or door trainers, and provided disposable gloves to be used when conducting door and equipment drills. 

    AFA representatives have also asked management to take immediate and necessary action to discontinue PBE and CPR drills due to the high potential of exposure to respiratory droplets that are known to spread COVID-19.  Management has taken steps to request an exemption from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for the requirement to complete PBE and CPR drills based on the ongoing spread of the disease.  AFA is calling upon management to immediately discontinue these drills as continuing to ask Flight Attendants to perform them is a serious safety and health risk.

    Food Availability on Layovers

    As a preventive measure to curb the spread of COVID-19, many restaurants in our layover cities are being ordered closed by local and state authorities.  Those that remain open are usually limited to take out or delivery only and are operating under limited hours.  The AFA Hotel Committee and the MEC are working with management to ensure that food options continue to remain available to Flight Attendants, ideally within the health guidance outlined by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) (see “FAA & CDC Recommendations for Layovers” below).  Management has been asked to compile a list of food options that remain open and available near each layover hotel and to post the list in a place easily accessible to Flight Attendants.


    FAA & CDC Recommendations for Layovers

    Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC)

    Last week, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued updated COVID-19 health guidance for crew members in conjunction with Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC).  This guidance includes recommendations to protect Flight Attendants from exposure and reduce the risk of transmission of COVID-19.  AFA recommends that Flight Attendants follow this FAA & CDC guidance to the extent that you are able to do so.

    While On a Layover In The United States or Internationally

    • Travel as a group in private transport provided by the air carrier when traveling between the airport and hotel (note: management has started implementing this provision already; see “Crew-Only Layover Hotel Transportation” below).
      • Minimize contact with ground personnel and time in public areas while moving between the aircraft and the private transport.
      • Do not use public transportation, including when traveling between the airport and hotel.
    • Stay in your hotel room to the extent possible.
    • Minimize going out into the general population and use social distancing (maintain a distance of approximately 6 feet, if possible) whenever out in public. Avoid crowds, stores, sporting or mass entertainment events, and other situations likely to attract large numbers of people.
    • Eat in your hotel room with either room service or delivery service. If in-room dining options are not available, eat at a restaurant located in the hotel. If not available at the hotel, eat at a restaurant located close to the hotel.
    • Avoid contact with sick people.
    • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use at least a 60% alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Use soap and water when your hands are visibly soiled.
    • Avoid touching your face.

    Crew-Only Layover Hotel Transportation

    Hotel Committee

    In response to guidance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), management will be temporarily implementing private, crew-only vans in cities where transportation had been previously provided by the hotel and the van was shared with other passengers.

    Management has instructed all transportation providers to adhere to the following criteria:

    • Vehicles must be sanitized and wiped down as much as possible prior to each pick up (seat belts and buckles, armrests, door handles, any touch points)
    • If possible, provide wipes and sanitizer in their vehicles
    • Gloves should be used if handling crew bags
    • Tipping may be limited due to risk of transfer on cash

    This change means that in cities where the hotel provides transportation directly, the hotel will either now be providing “crew only” vans or, if the hotel is unable to provide a vehicle exclusively for crew, management will be arranging for contracted transportation providers to provide this service.  Please note that with this change, company provided layover hotel transportation will be limited to crewmembers only for the foreseeable future.  Crewmembers who are planning to travel with family or other guests will need to make other arrangements for them to get to the hotel. 

    Management will be sending emails to those crews where transportation is being switched from hotel-provided to contracted transportation.  Pairings are also being updated in Crew Access if the transportation provider has changed.  Please be mindful of any emails or Crew Access notifications regarding transportation changes.

    Questions?

    If you have any questions, please contact your Local Hotel Committee.


    Tell Congress: Put Aviation Workers First

    Government Affairs Committee

    The coronavirus pandemic is decimating our aviation industry. It is a public health crisis and it is creating a financial catastrophe that dwarfs the economic cost of the Great Recession and September 11th combined.

    We’ve seen catastrophe before. We know what didn’t work before and we won’t let those things happen again. We need relief that focuses on real people. And we have a plan for that.

    Flight Attendants and other aviation workers have been on the frontlines of the coronavirus emergency from day one. Before most Americans knew what COVID-19 meant, we were calling for government action to keep it from disrupting our lives and our economy.

    Our plan is focused on keeping people on the payroll and stopping furloughs. Airlines are burning cash so quickly they will not be able to meet payroll within a few months, if not a few weeks. You will see furlough announcements that reflect this, but know this: we are working with airlines to get relief that keeps the paychecks going without furloughs.

    Washington is gearing up to save aviation. But we cannot accept another “no strings attached” government bailout for corporations and their executives that leaves Flight Attendants and aviation workers behind. This time it will be a RELIEF package focused on workers first with no stock buybacks or dividends and no executive bonuses.

    Send a letter to your members of Congress to demand that any public relief plan be a People First plan with legally-binding rules, including (but not limited to):

    1. Paycheck continuation without furloughs/layoffs
    2. No stock buybacks
    3. No executive bonuses
    4. No dividends
    5. No breaking contract

    >> Click here to take action now <<

    Amplify Your Message with a Call

    Call your Member of Congress and Senators now and tell them to support our position on a People First relief package for aviation.

    SENATE: 855-973-4213

    HOUSE: 877-782-8274

    Read more about our plan in this article >


    KCM Access Point Staffing

    Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC)

    Due to the rapid changes caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is directing Federal Security Directors to implement measures to maintain continuity of business. These measures could include some changes to the operation of Known Crewmember Program (KCM) access point locations. Crewmembers should expect periodic closures of KCM access points without notice. If KCM access points are closed, the TSA will accommodate crewmembers at TSA PreCheck™ locations where available or at standard passenger screening lanes. The TSA is taking measured steps and following CDC recommended guidance to preserve the health and safety of Transportation Security Officers

    More Information

    Please check the Known Crewmember website for more information and updates.


    Challenges with Onboard Trash Stowage

    Inflight Service Committee

    Our AFA Inflight Service Committee and Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) have been working to advance AFA’s request to discontinue any onboard sorting of trash in the wake of COVID-19.  Many Flight Attendants have attempted to collect trash without employing the usual sorting process that would be used for onboard recycling and have come up against numerous challenges based on the lack of adequate trash space.  This has become especially challenging on double catered flights, flights in the Florida and Hawaii markets, and flights on A319 and certain A320 aircraft.

    These concerns have been brought forward to the onboard food and beverage department, which is part of marketing.  Management is reviewing possible solutions to mitigate the lack of appropriate trash space.  AFA is continuing to stress the importance of providing adequate space for trash over discretionary provisions such as inflight entertaining tablets.  This comes down to safety—the company’s catering procedures should never be prioritized over providing adequate space for Flight Attendants to contain trash in a regulatory-complaint manner.

    Have You Experienced Inadequate Trash Stowage Space?

    If you are on a flight where you have inadequate trash stowage space, AFA highly encourages every Flight Attendant on the crew to file an Aviation Safety Action (ASAP) report using ReportIt!.  More information about ASAP, including a link to file a report, can be found here.


    Taking Control of Your Finances During a Loss of Flying

    Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee

    It is prudent for all Flight Attendants to assess their personal financial positions in anticipation of income reductions.  While every Flight Attendant’s situation will vary, below are some general considerations that can help you begin strategizing how best to weather the financial impact of flying cutbacks on your household.

    Assess Your Financial Status

    • Prepare a household budget and cut any non-essential items.
    • Prepare a list of all creditors and a contact person.  Make minimum payments.
    • Place your money in a bank in which you have no debt.
    • Attempt to secure a loan early, so you will have a cash flow.
    • Assess your tax situation.  You may be owed a refund or need to file an extension.
    • Be proactive.  Assess your credit card debt.  Look into a temporary reduction or abatement in payments.

    Contact Your Creditors

    You must communicate with your creditors before any payments become delinquent, and the sooner the better.  You can negotiate a lower repayment schedule before you run out of money.  Be professional, but assertive.  Creditors are easier to work with if they know ahead of time that there’s a problem.  Also, it shows ‘good faith’ that you are concerned about your debts and intend to pay.

    The goal is to make the amount of money you’ve saved last as long as possible.  Pay what you can on a regular basis, even if it is less than expected.  Partial payments may keep collection agents away.  Follow-up all telephone conversations with a letter and keep documentation.  Even in the worst-case scenario, it takes a long time for collections, repossessions and evictions to occur.  Contact credit counselors who can help you sort out your financial affairs.  Be sure to remember to contact the creditors that are automatically payroll deducted.

    Even if you can’t pay creditors the amount they want, make your best effort to pay something regularly.  This holds arrears as low as possible and lets the creditor know that you are doing all you can.  Partial payment may keep your account from being turned over to a collection agency.

    Put your payments in order of importance: this will help you pay first things first when money is short.  Generally, your most important payment will be the mortgage or rent payment, followed by utilities, health insurance and car payments.

    And after the initial contact, it’s important that you keep in contact with creditors – every two weeks or so.  This reassures the creditor, shows a responsible attitude toward your obligation and may keep the creditor from ‘hounding’ you.

    Prepare a Household Budget

    A budget helps you see where you spend your money and where you can save.  Your budgeted expenses should include:

    • Fixed expenses, including: mortgage, rent, taxes, insurance, loans, installment payments, credit card payments and any other monthly payments.
    • Monthly expenses, including: food, gas, repairs, dues, recreation, prescriptions.
    • Future expenses, including: income/property tax and any other outstanding debts.

    Your budgeted income should include:

    • Any remaining income
    • State disability insurance benefits
    • Workers’ compensation checks
    • Savings
    • Social Security
    • Unemployment compensation
    • Other pension funds

    Your assets may include:

    • Cash value of insurance policies
    • Equity in your home
    • Prepaid burial or funeral policy
    • Resale value of vehicles (including boats and snowmobiles)

    Now you are ready to adjust your expenses, negotiate with creditors and use assets in the most effective way possible.

    Questions?

    Contact your Local Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee or call (949) 470-0493.


    Telephone Support Group For Flight Attendants Under Self-Quarantine

    Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee

    In order to provide additional support to those Flight Attendants who are under self-quarantine, AFA International EAP is sponsoring a bi-weekly telephonic support group meeting.  The meetings are facilitated by a confidential mental health professional.

    Calls started on Tuesday, March 17 and are scheduled Tuesdays at 12 PM PDT (March 17, 24, 31, April 7, 14) and Sundays at 5 PM PDT (March 22, 29, April 5, 12).  Each call will last one hour and can support up to 100 Flight Attendant participants.

    Call-In Number

    (855) 544-2320 or (401) 648-9218

    If outside the U.S., follow the directions here.


    COVID-19 Resources

    • AFA International Coronavirus Outbreak (COVID-19) page
    • Alaska Air Group Coronavirus (COVID-19) subsite (AAG Sign-On Required)
    • Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) Coronavirus (COVID-19) subsite

    Filed Under: Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC), EAP/Professional Standards Committee, Government Affairs Committee, Hotel Committee, Inflight Service Committee, Inflight Training Committee, Latest News, Master Executive Council (MEC) Tagged With: 2020, CDC, Congress, COVID-19, FAA, KCM, novel coronavirus, transportation

    AFA Update – September 13, 2019

    September 13, 2019 12:00

    In This Edition

    • Contractual Supporting Documents
    • Reminder: New KCM Identification Requirements
    • FAA Responds to AFA Advocacy to Move on 10 Hours Rest Implementation

    Contractual Supporting Documents

    Contract Committee

    When there is a disagreement or difference of opinion regarding the intent of contractual language or how a contractual provision should be applied, AFA and management work through an established process to attempt to resolve the dispute.  Depending on the issue at hand, the resolution might be documented in one of several forms: a letter of agreement, memorandum of understanding, labor memorandum, or contractual settlement agreement.  Regardless of the format, these documents are contractually enforceable and supplement the provisions of our collective bargaining agreement.

    To allow for the easiest possible access, these contractual supporting documents can easily be accessed from the contract home page of the AFA Alaska website at https://afaalaska.org/contract.  You can also access them on your IMD through the Good Reader app by tapping ASFASupplemental > Collective Bargaining Agreement.

    Questions?

    If you have any questions about contractual supporting documents, please contact your LEC President.

    Reminder: New KCM Identification Requirements

    Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC)

    As a reminder, new crewmember identification requirements for KCM, went into effect on Friday, September 6, 2019. The requirements are:

    If the crewmember is wearing a uniform, the crewmember must present, as they do now:

    • A non-expired government-issued photo ID (such as a passport or driver’s license); and
    • An aircraft operator-issued crewmember photo ID (crew ID)

    If the crewmember is not wearing a uniform, the crewmember must present:

    • A non-expired government-issued photo ID;
    • An aircraft operator-issued crewmember photo ID; and
    • A third form of identification, either:
      • A valid FAA Airman’s Certificate
      • A valid FAA Flight Attendant Certificate of Proficiency; or
      • A second non-expired government-issued photo ID

    This means that out of uniform you must plan to present a passport and driver’s license/government ID card or one of these items and your FAA Certification card.

    At some airports Flight Attendants have been improperly directed to passenger screening if not in uniform, and in addition, that new KCM electronic randomizer function is selecting a very high percentage of crewmembers for passenger screening. AFA continues to work with TSA to resolve these issues as quickly as possible. Your reports have been instrumental in our ability to address these issues and correct discrepancies.

    Please continue to respectfully question when given instruction that is not consistent with reported procedures. If the TSA Officer or manager persists with the instruction, comply and then document the incident through our reporting form.

    KCM Questions and Reporting Form

    We fought hard to be included in KCM program. It is both a privilege as trusted crewmembers and a responsibility as part of aviation security. We all need to work together to ensure it continues to promote security and compliments our work as aviation’s last line of defense. 

    Please continue to follow all KCM program requirements.

    Questions?

    If you have any questions regarding KCM, please submit your question using the above form or contact your Local Executive Council (LEC) Officersfor assistance.

    FAA Responds to AFA Advocacy to Move on 10 Hours Rest Implementation

    Government Affairs Committee

    Last year we successfully achieved 10 Hours minimum rest free from duty under the law. According to the legislation timeline and past practice on implementation of new rules, airlines should have had to comply with the law by the beginning of June 2019. Instead, a few airlines mounted significant opposition to the implementation and argued it would be too costly and difficult to implement. The Government Shutdown and the Boeing 737 MAX grounding further delayed the implementation of hundreds of provisions of the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018. 

    Flight Attendants made our rest a top priority and it’s because of all of you that we were able to achieve this legislative win. We have been working diligently on several fronts to remove obstacles to getting our rest implemented. We have worked directly with Chairman DeFazio (D-OR), Chairman Larsen (D-WA) and several other members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. As we did with the original bill, we had both Republicans and Democrats from the Committee speaking up and pushing for implementation with FAA and DOT. We also have worked with our airlines to remove obstacles and specifically negotiated and implemented the 10 hours rest at Frontier and PSA. This also helped to demonstrate to regulators that the implementation should not be as difficult as they had been told by some airlines.

    Recently confirmed FAA Administrator Steve Dickson assured AFA and lawmakers he would make implementation of 10 hours rest a priority. Today, under his leadership the FAA took an official and public step forward announcing a rulemaking process for implementing the 10 hours minimum rest. Within hours, Delta announced they would implement the rest with the February bid month – demonstrating the truth that all airlines can do this within a few months time. We will keep the heat on and press for full federal implementation as soon as possible. This is about safety, health, and equality.

    Questions?

    Please reach out to your Local Government Affairs Committeeif you have any questions.

    Filed Under: Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC), Contract, Government Affairs Committee, Latest News, Master Executive Council (MEC) Tagged With: 2019, contract, Fight for 10, KCM, MOU

    AFA Update – August 30, 2019

    August 30, 2019 12:00

    In This Edition

    • Where to Find Our Contract on the IMD
    • The Latest on KCM
    • Personal Strategies for Approaching the Anniversary of September 11
    • Election Notice: MEC Officer Elections

    Where to Find Our Contract on the IMD

    Contract Committee

    Having easy access to our collective bargaining agreement empowers you to ensure that you are always able to reference your contractual rights and responsibilities in a given situation.  Section 27.T of our collective bargaining agreement requires that the Company provide access to an electronic version of the contract on the IMD.  Management has complied with this contractual requirement by housing an electronic version of the contract in the GoodReader app.

    To access the contract on your IMD, follow these steps:

    1. Open the GoodReader app
    2. Tap on ASFASupplemental 
    3. Tap on Collective Bargaining Agreement
    4. Tap on Contract
    5. Tap on the contract file

    Questions?

    If you have any questions about accessing the contract on your IMD, please contact your Local Executive Council (LEC) Officers.

    The Latest on KCM

    Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC)

    On Saturday, August 24, an update was posted to the KCM website indicating program changes related to unpredictable screening procedures (USP) and uniform requirements that were to take effect several days later.  This update was posted with no advance notice and a very short implementation schedule.  After receiving notice of these proposed changes, AFA promptly engaged the Airline Pilots Association (ALPA), Airlines for America (A4A), and the TSA to have additional conversations about these program changes and discuss alternatives. 

    Unpredictable Screening (USP) Changes

    Additional measures related to USP (commonly referred to as “random selection”) went into effect on Tuesday, August 27 as announced.  With this change, if you are selected for USP at a KCM access point you will continue to be flagged as a selectee at all KCM access points at that airport for a pre-determined amount of time.  If you are referred for USP that involves re-direction to the passenger screening lanes, please remember that you are subject to the same requirements as passengers if you are not in uniform.  Only crewmembers in uniform are exempt from TSA limitations on liquids, gels, and aerosols. 

    Uniform Requirement

    As a result of discussions with AFA, ALPA, and A4A, the TSA made the decision not to change the uniform requirement for KCM screening, meaning that crewmembers continue to be able to use KCM access points while out of uniform.

    Compliance and Reporting

    It is important that we continue to comply with procedures and instructions at KCM access points and security checkpoints if selected for unpredictable screening.  If you are given an instruction by a TSA Officer that differs from communicated procedures, please respectfully question the instruction.  If the Officer does not change the instruction, comply and then report the issue immediately to AFA.  

    The only way to address concerns with individual TSA Officers or airports carrying out KCM screening differently from communicated procedures is to report the issue.  Posts on social media about individual issues will not only fail to resolve the concern but could also unintentionally share sensitive security information (SSI) related to the KCM program.  Please use the reporting form below to report any issues as soon as possible so that they can be addressed directly with the TSA.

    KCM Reporting Form and Questions

    Questions?

    If you have any questions regarding KCM, please submit your question using the above form or contact your Local Executive Council (LEC) Officers for assistance.

    Personal Strategies for Approaching the Anniversary of September 11

    Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee

    As we approach the anniversary of September 11th, many of us will begin to plan how we’ll recognize this day. Anniversaries offer an opportunity to acknowledge our memories and experiences, to connect with others who share in them, and to pay tribute to our individual and collective journeys.  They can also serve as personal and professional milestones of our healing and resiliency.   For some, September 11th will be marked with private personal gestures such as observing a moment of silence, spending quiet time reflecting, or dedicating our flying to our profession.  For others, it will be marked with collective activities such as ceremonies and memorial services.

    • There is no right way or better way to recognize the anniversary; but, there are some suggestions that may prove helpful as we approach the anniversary of September 11th. 
    • Observe the anniversary in a way that’s comfortable for you.  Say no to events or activities that you sense may flood you with too many feelings.  Find more gentle ways of honoring the anniversary.
    • Don’t compare yourself to how others around you appear to be dealing with the September 11th anniversary.
    • Acknowledge that we all heal at different rates, in different ways, and with different outcomes.
    • Give yourself permission and time to be affected.  Though uncomfortable, anticipate and plan for having a stress reaction as the anniversary approaches.  Trust that if you have moments of difficulty, you’ll be able to pull yourself back together.
    • Try not to isolate yourself.  Pre-plan now to be with people if you know you have this tendency.

    However you choose to structure your day this September 11th or however it just naturally unfolds, please remember that your AFA EAP Committee Members welcome being a part of it.  If you or a flying partner needs a confidential ear, please call us at (949) 470-0493 or find your local EAP contact information on the EAP Committee page of the AFA Alaska website.  Remember, we’re just a phone call away.  

    Election Notice: MEC Officer Elections

    Master Executive Council (MEC)

    The term of office for our current Master Executive Council (MEC) Officers will conclude on December 31, 2019.  The voting members of the MEC (LEC Presidents) will elect new MEC Officers at the regular November MEC meeting.  This communication serves as notice of the election in accordance with article III.C.1 of the MEC Policy Manual.

    Background

    The MEC Officers consist of a President, Vice President, and Secretary/Treasurer.  These officer positions are responsible for serving as the coordinating council for the membership of the airline and carrying out the decisions of the MEC.  These officer positions are elected by the Local Executive Council (LEC) Presidents, who are the voting members of MEC.  

    Duties and Responsibilities

    The duties and responsibilities of the MEC Officers are defined in article VII.C.2 of the AFA Constitution & Bylaws.

    MEC President

    From the AFA Constitution & Bylaws (article VII.C.2.a)

    The President shall be the official Union spokesperson and chief executive officer for that airline and shall have the authority and duty to: 

    (1) Be responsible for and charged with administering the policies of that Master Executive Council, and implementing the objectives and policies announced by the Board of Directors and Executive Board. 

    (2)  Be responsible for the expeditious processing of members’ complaints and grievances. 

    (3)  Be the Union representative on that airline for the purpose of furthering and implementing the objectives and policies announced by the Board of Directors and Executive Board. 

    (4)  Coordinate and compile Master Executive Council policy, review reports and recommendations and submit such material to the appropriate committees of the Union. 

    (5)  Be a member of the Negotiating Committee. 

    (6)  Be a member of the Executive Board. 

    (7)  Be granted the privilege of the floor at all meetings of the Board of Directors, but shall have no vote, if not also a Local Council President. 

    (8)  Be responsible for and supervise the business and managerial functions of the Union on that carrier. 

    (9)  Consult with and be assisted by the Vice President and Secretary-Treasurer. 

    (10)  Ballot the Master Executive Council if necessary or when required. 

    (11)  Keep a current and accurate inventory of all Union property and supplies purchased or provided by the Union and submit a copy of this to the International Secretary-Treasurer of the Union. 

    (12)  Inform all Master Executive Council Officers and committees that all files, correspondence, documents and other materials resulting from the work of such committees are the property of the Union, not the personal property of individuals, and are to be safeguarded. 

    (13)  Maintain the Union’s files and property, then transfer them to her/his successor promptly. 

    Additional Duties & Responsibilities

    • Attend regular and special MEC meetings, quarterly Labor Leader meetings with the company, and annual AFA-CWA Board of Directors meetings.
    • Participate in the MEC Duty Officer program 

    Time Commitment and Flight Pay Loss Reimbursement

    • This position is contractually provided 130 TFP of Flight Pay Loss (FPL) per month
    • Must have the ability to be present in the MEC Office in Seattle to attend meetings and as needed.  Additional work completed remotely as necessary.
    • No relocation or accommodation reimbursement is provided for this position.
    • The MEC President is on-call to respond to critical incidents and situations.

    MEC Vice President

    From the AFA Constitution & Bylaws (article VII.C.2.b)

    The Vice President shall:

    (1) Function under the jurisdiction of the President in carrying out the policies and directives of the Master Executive Council.

    (2) Perform the duties of the President at her/his request or in the absence of the President.

    (3) Be granted the privilege of the floor at all Master Executive Council and Board of Directors meetings, but shall have no vote if not also a Local Council President.

    Additional Duties & Responsibilities

    • Serve as executive sponsor of MEC Committees and inform the MEC Secretary-Treasurer of upcoming meetings for calendaring.
    • Be responsible for obtaining a monthly written report from each of the MEC Committee Chairs and providing these reports to the MEC Secretary-Treasurer for submission with the monthly MEC agenda.
    • Attend regular and special MEC meetings, quarterly Labor Leader meetings with the company, MEC committee meetings, and annual AFA-CWA Board of Directors meetings.
    • Coordinate and participate in the MEC Duty Officer program 

    Time Commitment and Flight Pay Loss Reimbursement

    • This position is budgeted for 120 TFP of Flight Pay Loss (FPL) per month
    • Must have the ability to be present in the MEC Office in Seattle to attend meetings and as needed.  Additional work completed remotely as necessary.
    • No relocation or accommodation reimbursement is provided for this position.
    • The MEC Vice President is responsible for fulfilling the responsibilities of the MEC President during vacation and as needed.

    MEC Secretary-Treasurer

    From the AFA Constitution & Bylaws (article VII.C.2.c)

    The Secretary-Treasurer shall:

    (1) Assist the President in administering Master Executive Council funds.

    (2) Maintain Master Executive Council records and perform such other duties that may be specifically assigned to the Secretary-Treasurer by the President or Acting President.

    (3) Be responsible to the President and Master Executive Council.

    (4) Be responsible for general record keeping and accounting of the Master Executive Council budget and any funds.

    (5) Distribute a quarterly statement on expenditures to the Master Executive Council.

    (6) Assist in preparation of the Master Executive Council annual report to the membership.

    (7) Exhibit at all reasonable times the general records to any Officer or active member in good standing upon application.

    (8) Maintain Master Executive Council records and record all meetings of the Master Executive Council.

    (9) Deliver to her/his successor all monies and other property of the Master Executive Council. On demand of the International Office, s/he shall make available all books and records for examination and audit.

    (10) Submit a copy of all Master Executive Council meeting minutes and nomination notices to the International Secretary-Treasurer of the Union.

    (11) Be responsible for distributing a list of Master Executive Council committees’ flight pay loss to the Master Executive Council and the International Office each month; this list will include, but not be limited to, hours and ID(s) missed, days on projects, and projects charged.

    (12) Be granted the privilege of the floor at all Master Executive Council and Board of Directors meetings, but shall have no vote if not also a Local Council President.

    Additional Duties & Responsibilities

    • Maintain the MEC agenda; solicit agenda items from members of the MEC
    • Reserve meeting space and other meeting resources as needed
    • Make arrangements for MEC hotel accommodations and meals
    • Perform month-end financial reconciliation activities including:
      • Monthly submission of MEC flight pay loss to the company
      • Monthly reconciliation of Union Business flight pay loss
      • Monthly submission of all Union Business to AFA International
      • Review and approve expense reports
      • Monthly reconciliation of budget and expense reports
    • Attend regular and special MEC meetings, quarterly Labor Leader meetings with the company, and annual AFA-CWA Board of Directors meetings.
    • Participate in the MEC Duty Officer program 

    Time Commitment and Flight Pay Loss Reimbursement

    • This position is budgeted for 100 TFP of Flight Pay Loss (FPL) per month
    • Must have the ability to be present in the MEC Office in Seattle to attend meetings and as needed.  Additional work completed remotely as necessary.
    • No relocation or accommodation reimbursement is provided for this position.
    • The MEC Secretary-Treasurer is responsible for fulfilling the responsibilities of the MEC Vice President during vacation and as needed. S/he is responsible for fulfilling the responsibilities of the MEC President if the president and vice president are simultaneously unavailable.

    Working Relationships

    With The Master Executive Council (MEC)

    Constant interaction with the LEC Presidents, other LEC Officers, and other MEC Officers

    With MEC Committees

    Constant interaction with MEC Committee Chairs and Committee Members.

    With Management

    Constant interaction with Alaska Airlines management, particularly within the inflight and labor relations departments

    With AFA International

    Frequent interaction with AFA international officers and staff members

    Term of Office

    The regular term of office is for three years, beginning on January 1, 2020 and concluding on December 31, 2022.

    Expressing Interest and Interview Scheduling

    The MEC will hold interviews and conduct elections during the regular November MEC meeting on Tuesday, November 5 and Wednesday, November 6, 2019.  Bid around these dates or plan to arrange your schedule accordingly to accommodate.

    Interested candidates should submit an expression of interest and resume online at https://forms.gle/DoRD4akQcakcuWRn9.  The deadline for submissions is 5 PM Pacific time on Tuesday, October 29.  After that time, MEC Secretary-Treasurer Linda Christou will contact qualified candidates to schedule a specific interview time.

    Please note that in order to submit an expression of interest, you must have a Google account.  If you do not have a Google account, you can create one for free at https://accounts.google.com/signup.

    Questions?

    If you have any questions about MEC duties and responsibilities or the election process, please email officers@afaalaska.org.

    Filed Under: Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC), Contract, EAP/Professional Standards Committee, Latest News, Master Executive Council (MEC) Tagged With: 2019, contract, EAP, election, KCM, MEC Officers, September 11, USP

    Need Help?

    Have an issue or concern to report to AFA?  Click here to access the AFA Alaska online support center.

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