AFA Alaska + Hawaiian

Representing the Flight Attendants of Alaska + Hawaiian

Click here to report an issue to AFA
Menu
  • Local Councils
    • Anchorage (Council 30)
      • Officers
      • Committees
    • Honolulu (Council 43)
    • Los Angeles (Council 18/pmAS)
      • Officers
      • Committees
      • Los Angeles (Council 47/pmHA)
        • Officers
      • Portland (Council 39)
        • Officers
        • Committees
      • San Diego (Council 15)
        • Officers
        • Committees
        • Seattle (Council 19)
          • Officers
          • Committees
        • San Francisco (Council 35)
          • Officers
          • Committees

        • More About Local Councils >>
        Close
      • Master Executive Council
        • Officers
        • MEC Officer Elections (November 2025)
        • Close
      • Committees
          • Air Safety, Health, & Security (ASHSC)
            • Air Quality
          • Benefits
          • Communications
          • Employee Assistance Program & Professional Standards
          • Government Affairs
          • Grievance
          • Hotel
          • Human Rights & Equity
          • Inflight Service
          • Inflight Training
          • Membership
          • Membership Engagement
          • Reserve
          • Retirement
          • Scheduling
            • Pairing Construction
            • Preferential Bidding System (PBS)
          • Uniform

        • More About Committees >>
        Close
      • Contract
          • Contract Home
            • 2025 Alaska Contract
            • 2020 Hawaiian Contract
            • Ask Contract Questions
          • Contract Resources
          • Alaska Contract Negotiations (2022-2025)
        • Close
      • Resources
          • What To Do If You Encounter Contaminated Cabin Air
          • Issues & Campaigns
          • Newsroom
            • AFA News Now
          • Event Calendar
          • Membership Services
          • New Members
          • About
          • Links
          Close
        • Merger
          • Joint Negotiating Committee
          • Close
        • Contact Us
        You are here: Home / Archives for pmAS

        Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – August 2025

        August 28, 2025 17:00

        This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

        On Tuesday, August 26, our AFA Scheduling Committee Chairpersons/Representatives met to discuss their ongoing work to represent our Flight Attendants and push for improvements in our workplace. Representing you at the meeting were Rebekah Olds (ANC), Rita Tillou (SEA), Melodie Anderes (PDX), Jaqui Bellenie (SFO), Kanako Yamado (LAX), and Kitty Cohen (SAN). Also present were Council 35 (SFO) Hotel Committee Chairperson Hilary Streem, 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 of Inflight Operations & Crew Scheduling Sara Cook, Senior Crew Planning Analyst Christopher Potts, Inflight Crew Scheduling Supervisor Matthew Trujillo, Manager of Crew Pay Debbie Bakke, Crew Hotels Specialist Nichole Turner, Manager of Flight Crew Systems Support Sue Rawlings and other management representatives from Crew Planning, Crew Hotels and Crew Scheduling

        The Committee is next scheduled to meet in person on Tuesday, September 23.

        Topics of Discussion

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

        Crew Backlog Review: The Committee thoroughly analyzed the crew backlog as of August 7, 2025. They identified critical areas where contractual changes are needed, bugs must be fixed, JIRAs updated, and priorities renumbered in our system operations to enhance functionality, automation, and contractual compliance. The Committee stressed the urgency of addressing these issues to prevent further disruptions and ensure crew members’ systems are correctly programmed.

        Crew Bi-Monthly Review with ALPA: The outcomes of the bi-monthly review with ALPA on July 23, 2025, were discussed in detail. Key topics included collaborative strategies to address ITS system conflicts, improving communication between management and crew members, and aligning system needs with the crew member experience. The Committee highlighted the significance of these discussions in fostering a cooperative environment that prioritizes both parties’ contractual and programming needs.

        Fatigue Review Board Meetings: The Committee outlined the agenda for the upcoming Fatigue Review Board meetings scheduled through December 2025. These meetings will focus on addressing the increasing concerns regarding crew fatigue reported by members. The Committee plans to collect data on fatigue incidents, discuss mitigation strategies, and evaluate current policies to enhance crew well-being. The importance of these discussions lies in their potential to lead to actionable changes that prioritize safety and crew health.

        Local Chairperson Reports:

        PDX (Portland)

        • Day Room Issues: Flight Attendants have reported difficulties securing day rooms after long international flights, often facing delays and inadequate communication regarding accommodations. The Committee will investigate these incidents to enhance support systems for crew members during layovers and ensure that hotel arrangements are handled efficiently.
        • Banking Challenges: Increased passenger volumes at the airport have led to operational strain, particularly during peak hours. The Committee is aware of the challenges crew members face in navigating airport facilities and is exploring logistical improvements to ease congestion and enhance the flying experience at PDX.

        SAN (San Diego)

        • Double Out Rest Clarification: The Committee discussed the nuances of contractual provisions regarding double-out rest for flight attendants. 
        • Jumpseat Assignment Policy: A review of the jump seat assignment process highlighted the need for more straightforward guidelines regarding seniority-based assignments. The Committee will work with management on developing a transparent policy that ensures fairness in the allocation of jump seats, addressing concerns raised by Flight Attendants.

        ANC (Anchorage)

        • Open Time Reporting: The Committee reviewed Open Time reporting metrics and operational challenges faced by crew members. Addressing this system outage is crucial for maintaining crew flexibility. The Committee is working on resolutions with Alaska ITS and Jeppesen, the vendor.

        LAX (Los Angeles)

        • IT Concerns: Ongoing IT issues were addressed, including delays in release times and hotel accommodations. The Committee is working closely with IT support teams to resolve these issues, aiming to improve the overall experience for crew members during layovers and operational changes.

        SFO (San Francisco)

        • Communication Protocols: The need for clearer communication regarding crew transitions from working to deadheading was emphasized. The Committee plans to establish protocols that ensure timely notifications to crew members, reducing confusion and improving operational efficiency.

        SEA (Seattle)

        • Reassignment Clarification: A significant number of reassignments and pre-cancellations have raised questions about pay and provisions. The Committee seeks more straightforward guidelines and support mechanisms to assist crew members in navigating these changes effectively.

        PBS Subcommittee

        • Bidding Process: The Subcommittee reported on the current bidding trends for August and September, noting minor fluctuations in awards. Adjustments were made to ensure compliance with labor agreements, and efforts are ongoing to address any discrepancies.
        • NAVBLUE Issues: Ongoing meetings with NAVBLUE have focused on addressing technical failures and functional requests. The Subcommittee is committed to resolving these issues to enhance the bidding and scheduling process for crew members.
        • Releases Timeline: Upcoming software releases are planned for September and November, emphasizing incorporating Member feedback into system improvements. These updates aim to enhance the overall user experience and address existing pain points.

        ITS Update

        • Testing and Automation: The automation initiative is progressing, with the introduction of new test cases aimed at enhancing the efficiency of the PBS system. The Committee is prioritizing robust testing to ensure reliability before implementation.
        • Crew Calendar Development: The crew calendar and personal drop form are undergoing user acceptance training, with a targeted rollout by early October. Ensuring a smooth transition to the new system is a priority for the Committee.
        • JCTE Issues: The committee continues to collaborate with vendors to address recurring issues with the JCTE system, focusing on improving reliability and minimizing disruptions for crew members.

        Flight Attendant Crew Pay Update

        • Inquiry Management: The committee is actively addressing the increase in crew pay inquiries, emphasizing the importance of submitting queries judiciously to avoid system overload. Educational resources will be provided to help crew members navigate the pay inquiry process effectively.
        • Trend Analysis: An upward trend in pay inquiries has been observed, prompting a comprehensive review of existing processes to improve efficiency. The Committee aims to streamline communication regarding pay issues to serve crew members better.

        Flight Attendant Crew Planning Update

        • Staffing Metrics: The Committee is analyzing planned reserve staffing levels and block hours to ensure alignment with operational demands. Adjustments will be made as necessary to optimize crew utilization.
        • Irregular Operations Mitigation Strategies: The Committee is focusing on enhancing connection times and scheduling practices to minimize delays and improve operational reliability. Specific strategies include analyzing connection times and addressing known issues at key airports.

        Flight Attendant Crew Scheduling Update

        • Sick Leave Monitoring: The Committee is closely monitoring sick leave trends, focusing on improving reserve utilization rates and addressing fatigue-related concerns. Strategies will be developed to ensure adequate staffing while prioritizing crew members’ health.
        • Policy Review: Ongoing reviews of policies regarding deadheading and hotel accommodations aim to provide more straightforward guidelines and enhance crew support. The Committee is committed to ensuring crew members have access to the resources they need while on duty.

        What The Committee Is Working On

        1. Crew Access Issues: Crew Access challenges significantly affect how well operations run, influencing how Flight Attendants feel about their work. It’s crucial to tackle these problems to create a better working environment. The committee will set up a review process to pinpoint the specific access difficulties faced by Flight Attendants, including technology problems and policy gaps. Flight Attendants will have the chance to provide their feedback through direct communication. A preliminary report outlining the findings and suggestions is expected by early September 2025, and actions to address these issues will begin soon after.
        2. Resolving Pyramiding Pay Disputes: Finding a solution to the pay dispute related to pyramiding is vital for maintaining fairness in how Flight Attendants are compensated. Disagreements about over-duty pay and day-off violations can seriously affect crew morale and operational integrity. The committee will keep discussing the matter through the Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR) process to clarify payment rules and ensure they are followed. They will gather information from Flight Attendants affected by these issues to guide their discussions. An update on the progress and any resolutions will be shared with Members by the end of September 2025, aiming for a settlement soon after. Management and AFA will explore other options, like mediation or arbitration, if an agreement cannot be reached.
        3. ISA for Reserves Implementation: The ineligibility for self-assignment (ISA) for Reserve Flight Attendants is an important step toward fairer and more transparent scheduling practices. This change is crucial for boosting crew satisfaction and efficiency. The Committee will work quickly to finalize this new system by working with the IT department and other relevant management to implement the necessary changes to the scheduling system. They will also develop ways to keep Flight Attendants informed about the updates. The next Crew Access release, which will include ISA implementation allowing Reserve Flight Attendant to Reserve Flight Attendant trading, is expected to be available in early October 2025, after all testing has been completed.

        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.

        Filed Under: AFA News Now, Scheduling Committee Tagged With: committee meeting, pmAS

        Uniform Committee Meeting Recap – 3rd Quarter 2025

        August 22, 2025 09:00

        This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

        On Thursday, August 14, the AFA Local 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), David Jelinek (PDX), Lisa Mueller (SFO), Heather Holmes (LAX), JP Perina (SAN). Horizon AFA MEC Uniform Committee Chairperson Norann Mann and MEC Uniform Committee Chairperson Kiara Jenkins were also present.

        The committee also met with Interim Senior Product Manager Marketing Ann McCurties, Senior Product Manager Marketing Megan Low, Supply Chain Program Manager Lizzie Revard, PDX Inflight Base Manager Kristie Stafford, and SFO Inflight Base Manager Cierra Lewis.

        The next Quarterly Uniform Committee Meeting will be held on Thursday, November 6.

        Topics of Discussion 

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

        • The 2026 Uniform Committee Quarterly Meetings dates are as follows: February 19, May 7, August 13, and November 5.  
        • A uniform issue reporting form to be located on the IMD has been approved by IT. Management will continue to collaborate with IT and will provide updates on testing and launch dates as they become available.  
        • Additional Phase 2 uniform focus groups are tentatively scheduled for October.  
        • The second round of Request for Proposal (RFP) meetings with various labor groups took place this month. The primary focus was on evaluating the potential manufacturers surveyed as candidates. Discussion also included the transition to Phase 2 (production) elements, such as cut & sew, safety (fire-resistant material), and fabric.  
        • Flight Attendants should not be charged for wings. If you have been charged, please contact management to arrange for a refund.  
        • Alisa Onishi from Hawaiian Airlines is leading the new uniform program. Please direct all new uniform inquiries and discussions to her. Current uniform issues will continue to be handled by the existing management personnel who attend the quarterly meetings.  
        • The Committee has requested that the Copper River vest be approved for use when flying within the state of Alaska. Management will review this request.  
        • With boot season approaching, please review the boot guidelines. If you would like to seek pre-approval before purchasing your boot wear, please email kristie.stafford@alaskaair.com.  
        • For those interested in purchasing Arctic boots and receiving reimbursement through a deduction from your uniform allotment, please refer to section 13.D.1 of the contract for more information.

        What The Committee Is Working On

        1. Arctic Stuff Sack: Management will revisit a Unisync test sack that was initially thought to be too bulky, but may ultimately fit the needs due to the size of the parka.
        2. Quarter Zip Cardigan: The Committee noticed these pieces have been removed from the uniform subsite. Some sizes have completely sold out, and when they do, there will not be a restock. Management will work with Unisync to return the remaining sizes to the subsite so Flight Attendants can order them until stock is depleted.
        3. Pantyhose: The Committee continues to advocate for less expensive or discounted options, as the price and difficulty of finding pantyhose (especially navy ones) have increased.

        We Want to Hear From You!

        Please fill out the Quality Concern Form on the Uniform subsite on TeamAAG with any quality issues. Additionally, you may email your Local Uniform Committee Chairperson. Please consider opening a ticket on the AFA Alaska Online Support Center so the Uniform Committee can track these issues.

        Would you like to join the wear test pool? Do you have other feedback for the committee or items that you’d like brought up with management? Please let us know!  Your Local Uniform Committee is your voice to management. You can find contact information on the Uniform Committee page of the AFA Alaska website. 

        Filed Under: AFA News Now, Uniform Committee Tagged With: committee meeting, pmAS

        Hotel Committee Meeting Recap – August 2025

        August 15, 2025 09:00

        This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

        On Monday, August 11, our AFA Local Hotel Committee Chairpersons met in person in Seattle to receive an update about current layover hotels and transportation providers and discuss concerns with management. Representing you at the meeting were Dori Marron (ANC), Jarod McNeill (SEA), Kelly Hepworth (PDX), Hilary Streem (SFO), Chris Cardenas (LAX), 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 Hotels and Administration Diane Szubert, Senior Crew Hotels Support Specialist Nichole Turner and Crew Hotels Support Specialist LaFay Williams. Manager of Inflight Crew Scheduling (Interim) Matthew Trujillo also joined for a portion of the meeting.    

        The next scheduled Hotel Committee meeting is Monday, September 8.

        Topics of Discussion

        The committee reviewed several items during the meeting with management, most of which focused on hotel decisions and challenges in our layover markets. Some items discussed include:

        • Unplanned Accommodations in Remote Outstations: Over the summer, we had a few flight cancellations in the State of Alaska, resulting in significant accommodation challenges for Flight Attendants. Hotels are limited outside the larger Alaskan cities, especially contractually compliant ones. The Committee had a robust discussion with Matthew Trujillo about Crew Scheduling’s process in helping to secure rooms when flights are to be canceled. The goal was to identify opportunities in the process to accommodate crewmembers better.        
        • Ad Hoc List: Early this year, the Committee undertook a large project to review and revise the hotel ad hoc list. The ad hoc list is vetted (by AFA and ALPA) and used by API when the designated crew hotel in a layover city is unavailable. This could happen for several reasons, such as known blackout dates, fire alarm testing, planned water shut off, local events that can lead to road closures or excessive noise, etc. API and Crew Hotels use this list to secure accommodation with the next best option. The Committee discussed the process to keep the list current and the plan to post this list for Flight Attendants to view, as called for in section 34.A.6 of the contract.    
        • Bed Bug Reporting: Bed bugs have recently become a significant topic of discussion, and the Committee believes it is essential to clarify the procedures followed when a hotel is informed of potential bed bug sightings. Hotels take these reports seriously and are equally committed to resolving them as management is. Additionally, bed bug mitigation and treatment protocols are reviewed with each hotel during every site visit by the Hotel Committee. When a suspected bed bug report is made, the hotel will immediately take the affected room out of service, along with the adjacent rooms, as well as those above and below it, for at least 24 hours. During this time, a pest control vendor will inspect and treat the rooms, even if no bed bugs are found. This precautionary measure is taken to ensure safety. Management receives these reports upon request, which they have shared with the Hotel Committee. While it is impossible to prevent bed bugs entirely, we encourage Flight Attendants to remain vigilant and take precautions by familiarizing themselves with the AFA Bed Bug Resources.

        What The Committee Is Working On

        1. Conducting Hotel Site Visits: The Hotel Committee conducts visits to hotels that are considered by management to ensure that the selected options provide the safest and most comfortable layover experience for Flight Attendants. Crew Hotels has provided the Committee with the remaining cities that will be visited in 2025: SLC (Sept), SAN (Oct), CUN (Oct), BNA (Nov), HNL (Nov), MCO – Long Stay (Nov), ORD – Short Stay (Dec), and SJO (Dec). Market reviews are triggered by factors such as contract expirations, crew complaints, and opportunities for cost savings. Depending on the outcome of these reviews, additional site visits may be arranged in those cities.
        2. Hotel Gainshare Program: MEC Hotel Committee Chairperson James Bozanich, MEC President Tim Green, and MEC Vice President Brice McGee met with management on July 28 to continue discussions on a Hotel Gainshare program. Our prior meetings have focused on general program discussion and research. Our next steps are to build out the program’s concepts. We’ll continue to keep you updated as developments occur.    

        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 (Alaska management), 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.

        Filed Under: AFA News Now, Hotel Committee Tagged With: committee meeting, pmAS

        Joint Contract Negotiations Session 6 – August 2025

        August 8, 2025 13:00

        This message is for both pre-merger Alaska and Hawaiian Flight Attendants

        • Our JNC met with management this week on August 5 to August 7 in Seattle; our next negotiation session is scheduled for September 28 to October 3
        • Our JNC will be attending Local Council Meetings at your domicile, please stay informed through your Local Leadership for details
        • Two surveys are being finalized – Vacation and Sick Leave; look out for links to participate in these surveys in the upcoming weeks

        Negotiations Update

        The AFA Alaska + Hawaiian Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC) met this week for three days of collective bargaining with management.  The JNC met with management on August 5 to August 7 in Seattle, WA.  At the negotiating table for this session were:

        Representing AFA and our Flight Attendants  Representing Management
        Tim Green, Joint Negotiating Committee ChairpersonAllen Thieman, Vice President of Inflight, Alaska
        Martin Gusman, Joint Negotiating Committee MemberCarmen Williams, Managing Director, Labor Relations, Alaska
        Jeffrey Fuke, Joint Negotiating Committee MemberKalani Sloat, Senior Director, Labor Relations, Hawaiian
        Virginia Fritz, Joint Negotiating Committee MemberNeil Osato, Director, Labor and People Relations, Hawaiian
        Heather Reier, Joint Negotiating Committee MemberMike Link, Labor Relations Program Manager, Alaska
        Suzanne Balzer, AFA Senior Staff NegotiatorKaren Themelis, Senior Labor Relations Business Partner, Alaska

        During this week of negotiations Suzanne Balzer, AFA Senior Staff Negotiator and Neil Osato, Hawaiian Airlines, Director of Labor and People Relations joined us at the negotiating table. Throughout the week, we exchanged several proposals, carefully considering each one to ensure that they align with our goals and interests. While there was some movement on both sides, we encountered several provisions that continue to need resolution. It has become clear that addressing these specific areas is vital for us to reach a tentative agreement on those sections. As we continue this important dialogue, we hope to continue to make progress toward finalizing the agreement for each section addressed.

        Section by Section Progress

        Sections discussed in this session:

        • Section 13 – Uniforms (HA CBA Section 6)
        • Section 25 – Air Safety Health and Security (HA CBA Section 28)
        • Section 27 – Association General (HA CBA Section 22)
        • Section 30 – Training (HA CBA Section 26)

        Sections in ongoing discussion:

        • Section 34 – Lodging and Transportation (HA CBA Section 4.C and Section 4.E)
        • Section 36 – Commuter Policy (HA CBA Section 34-28)

        Sections listed below are on hold until discussions regarding future sections, which affect specific provisions, take place.

        • Section 6 – Seniority (HA CBA Section 9)
        • Section 15 – Leaves of Absence (HA CBA Section 17)
        • Section 19 – Grievance Procedures (HA CBA Section 23)

        Our JNC is Coming To a Base Near You

        Our Joint Negotiating Committee will be attending the Local Council Meetings in your domicile. Please stay informed through your Local Council for more information.

        What’s Upcoming

        Our next session with management is scheduled for September 30 to October 2.

        We are in the process of finalizing two surveys: one for Vacation and one for Sick Leave. Each survey will be distributed separately. The Sick Leave survey will be sent out after the Vacation survey window has closed. Please keep an eye out for the links to these surveys in the coming weeks.

        Filed Under: AFA News Now, Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC) Tagged With: pmAS, pmHA

        Understanding JCBA Negotiations

        July 30, 2025 13:00

        This message is for both pre-merger Alaska and Hawaiian Flight Attendants

        • JCBA negotiations aim to create a new contract from two existing agreements, rather than improving an existing one
        • Our JNC will be conducting targeted surveys for specific contract sections and considers feedback from MEC Committee Chairs and Members
        • The goal is to negotiate a contract that incorporates the best aspects of both carriers, providing improvements that benefit all Flight Attendants

        JCBA vs. Regular Contract Negotiations: What’s the Difference?

        There are important differences between Joint Collective Bargaining Agreement (JCBA) negotiations and standard “Section 6” negotiations under the Railway Labor Act. This message outlines how JCBA negotiations work—and what you can expect.

        Regular Section 6 Contract Negotiations

        Most of you are familiar with Section 6 negotiations, which are used to update and negotiate your carrier’s Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). Here’s how that process typically works:

        • Survey First: Before bargaining begins, the Negotiating Committee (NC) sends out a survey to all members to gather input on priorities on existing contract provisions.
        • Comparison and Strategy: The NC looks at recent gains by other Flight Attendant groups and compares contract terms across the industry.
        • Proposal Development: This information helps AFA create initial proposals for management—our roadmap for negotiations.  Management also brings wanted changes forward.
        • Negotiation Flow: Talks usually begin with non-economic sections and sections both sides agree don’t need changes. Tentative agreements are communicated to members along the way.
        • If Talks Stall: Either side can ask the National Mediation Board (NMB) for help. If mediation fails, AFA can request a “Proffer of Arbitration,” which may eventually lead to a 30-day cooling-off period—and the legal right to strike.

        All of this is governed by Section 6 of the Railway Labor Act. However, JCBA negotiations follow a very different process.

        JCBA Negotiations

        Here’s how JCBA talks differ from regular negotiations:

        • Not Section 6 Negotiations: Because our contracts are not amendable, we fall outside the regular Section 6 process and don’t have all of the above avenues under the Railway Labor Act.  However, the NMB can provide mediation/facilitation services if requested.
        • Creating One Contract from Two: Instead of improving a single contract, JCBA talks are about building an entirely new agreement from two existing contracts—each with its own culture, policies, rules, and operational concerns adding complexity to the process.
        • Different Survey Process: Because it wasn’t possible to capture the entirety of both contracts in one survey, the Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC) will send targeted “subject matter” surveys on specific contract sections. These will also help educate members on both carriers’ current provisions.
        • Input Matters: Besides survey feedback, the JNC also considers input and advice from committee chairs, and member emails, comments, and concerns when making decisions.

        The Framework: Merger Transition Protocol Agreement (MTPA)

        JCBA negotiations are guided by the MTPA, which outlines where and how often the JNC and management meet and other related details. The MTPA also establishes two main approaches:

        • Adopt-and-Go: Use an entire section from one contract as-is.
        • Modify-and-Adopt: Take a section from one contract, modify it, and include it in the new agreement.

        Because the JCBA will likely last beyond current amendable dates of the Alaska and Hawaiian CBAs, the JNC is also pushing for improvements that go beyond both current contracts. Industry comparisons play a key role in setting these goals.

        Balancing Two Contracts

        In consultation with the Master Executive Council (MEC), the JNC evaluates and compares each section from both contracts—like Sick Leave, Vacation, Open Time, and Training. These provisions often differ significantly between carriers. The JNC’s job is to find solutions that work best for the combined membership.

        Subject-matter survey results help guide these choices.

        Expect more information on surveys soon as the JNC tackles major contract sections.

        Merged Seniority List

        Under AFA’s Constitution and Bylaws, the merged seniority list is based on Flight Attendant date-of-hire. A joint committee of Flight Attendants from both airlines – under the guidance of the AFA International Secretary-Treasurer – verifies with documentation and with individual Flight Attendants – all training and hire dates and integrates them according to date-of-hire.

        Until a JCBA is finalized (which could take 2+ years), here’s what you can expect per the provisions of the MPTA:

        • Hawaiian and Alaska Flight Attendants will continue to operate separately and on their own operation’s aircraft
        • No cross-flying between airlines
        • Hawaiian widebody aircraft will be flown to Asia and Australia/New Zealand, etc. by Hawaiian Flight Attendants
        • Bases and pairings will stay separate
        • Alaska Flight Attendants will continue to receive higher pay rates and boarding pay

        While having control of the merged seniority list does give AFA significant leverage in these negotiations, there will also be pressure on the parties to combine the operation so that all members can work and take advantage of the entire, combined operation, receive higher pay, and transfer freely between bases- but the JNC will move at a pace that protects your contract rights and prioritizes improvements for all.

        Looking Ahead

        JCBA talks will involve tough decisions. The JNC will keep members informed and involved, working closely with MEC leaders every step of the way. Your feedback and engagement are vital.

        The JNC is committed to negotiating a contract that reflects the best of both carriers—with improvements over and above those provisions that will benefit all Flight Attendants.

        Filed Under: AFA News Now, Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC) Tagged With: pmAS, pmHA

        • « Previous Page
        • 1
        • …
        • 4
        • 5
        • 6
        • 7
        • 8
        • …
        • 12
        • Next Page »

        Need Help?

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

        Latest News

        • Important Update: Irregular Operations Due to Civil Unrest In Mexico
        • AFA News in Review – February 20, 2026
        • Invitation to Training: What To Do if a Union Member is Detained
        • AFA Alaska + Hawaiian MEC Town Hall: Join Us Tuesday, March 3
        • Hotel Committee Meeting Recap – February 2026
        • AFA News in Review – February 13, 2026
        • SEA Domicile Negotiations Update – February 2026
        • Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee Meeting Recap – January 2026
        • AFA News in Review – February 6, 2026
        • Important Upcoming BOD Meetings

        Important Update: Irregular Operations Due to Civil Unrest In Mexico

        February 22, 2026

        In response to the significant operational disruptions caused by the civil unrest affecting cities throughout Mexico, particularly Puerto Vallarta (PVR), Guadalajara (GDL), and Manzanillo (ZLO), management continues to operate under an Irregular Operations (IROPS) situation. Our MEC and Committees are actively monitoring the situation and working with management to support our Flight Attendants. Management has […]

        Invitation to Training: What To Do if a Union Member is Detained

        February 18, 2026

        The California Federation of Labor Unions is offering a series of Union Rapid Response Trainings. The next session, “What To Do if a Union Member is Detained,” will offer practical information and guidance on how to respond if this happens. Details of the training are as follows: Date: Thursday, February 19Time: 11:30 AM to 1 PM PTLocation: Zoom Please register […]

        Hotel Committee Meeting Recap – February 2026

        February 16, 2026

        On Monday, February 9, 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), Kelly Hepworth (PDX), Hilary Streem (SFO), Brian Sherill (LAX-pmAS), and Kanani Vallot (SAN), with MEC […]

        SEA Domicile Negotiations Update – February 2026

        February 13, 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

        February 12, 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 […]

        Recent Posts

        • Important Update: Irregular Operations Due to Civil Unrest In Mexico
        • AFA News in Review – February 20, 2026
        • Invitation to Training: What To Do if a Union Member is Detained
        • AFA Alaska + Hawaiian MEC Town Hall: Join Us Tuesday, March 3
        • Hotel Committee Meeting Recap – February 2026
        • AFA News in Review – February 13, 2026
        • SEA Domicile Negotiations Update – February 2026
        • Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee Meeting Recap – January 2026
        • AFA News in Review – February 6, 2026
        • Important Upcoming BOD Meetings
        • AFA Alaska + Hawaiian MEC Town Hall: Join Us Tuesday, March 3
        • Scheduling Committee Meeting Recap – January 2026
        • Celebrating Black History Month
        • Never Forget: Honoring Alaska Airlines Flight 261—January 31, 2000 
        • AFA News in Review – January 30, 2026

        Local Councils

        • Anchorage
        • Honolulu
        • Los Angeles (pre-merger Alaska)
        • Los Angeles (pre-merger Hawaiian)
        • Portland
        • San Diego
        • San Francisco
        • Seattle

        Master Executive Council

        • MEC

        Negotiations

        • Contract 2022 Home
        • Negotiations News
        • TA2 Information

        Contract

        • Contract Home

        Committees

        • Air Safety, Health, & Security
        • Benefits
        • Communications
        • EAP/Professional Standards
        • Government Affairs
        • Grievance
        • Hotel
        • Human Rights
        • Inflight Service
        • Mobilization
        • Reserve
        • Retirement
        • Scheduling
        • Uniform

        News By Month

        News By Category

        AFA News Now Air Quality Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) AS/HA Merger AS/VX Merger Benefits Committee Committees Communications Committee Contract Contract 2014 Negotiations Blog Council 15 SAN Council 18 LAX (pmAS) Council 19 SEA Council 30 ANC Council 35 SFO Council 39 PDX Council 47 LAX (pmHA) EAP/Professional Standards Committee Extension 2021 Blog Featured Government Affairs Committee Grievance Committee Hotel Committee Human Rights & Equity Committee Industry News Inflight Service Committee Inflight Training Committee JNC Blog Joint Negotiating Committee (JNC) Latest News Local Councils Master Executive Council (MEC) Membership Committee Membership Engagement Committee Message from the MEC President Mobilization Committee Negotiations Pairing Construction Preferential Bidding System (PBS) Press Releases Reserve Committee Retirement Committee Scheduling Committee Uniform Committee
        • Email
        • Facebook
        • Instagram
        • YouTube

        Want To Stay In The Loop?

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

        Connect With AFA

        • Contact Us
        • Online Support Center
        • AFA International
        • CWA
        • AFA Alaska Social Media Guidelines
        • AFA-CWA Mutual Respect Policy

        Copyright © 2013-2026 Alaska/Hawaiian Airlines Master Executive Council, Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, AFL-CIO