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    You are here: Home / Archives for transportation

    Council 35 News – September 2022

    October 5, 2022 20:22


    Important Dates
    September 30:  Q3 CBT Due Today!
    October 03:  Vacation 2023 Bidding Round 2 Opens
    October 10:  NGP Benefits Enrollment Opens
    October 18:  Vacation 2023 Bidding Round 2 Closes
    October 25:  Vacation 2023 Bidding Round 2 Awards
    October 27:  Vacation 2023 Trading Opens


    SFO ISC Update

    by Raymond Ramirez, C35 ISC Chair
    The Inflight Service Committee met with management at their quarterly meeting on September 21, 2022. The addition of the third cart on PLH flights is on management’s radar, but the ISC continues to advocate against this service. The lack of trash stowage, not enough supplies for three services, and long bathroom lines are the biggest concerns that have been brought forward. ISC’s goal is to work with the company to reach mutually agreeable solutions with the work group. Please continue to use Block2Block, FAIRs and ASAP to write up trash stowage concerns, flights loaded without empty carts in the AFT galley, and when supplies run out during cart service. Also, certain stations are implementing single door catering, potentially causing delays with boarding. Always notify CSAs that boarding cannot begin until the caterers finish blocking the aisle, and if it causes a delay it needs to be written as an FAIR and a safety hazard report. Other items that were brought to management’s attention include a time zone glitch on Block2Block when working Mexico flights, feedback regarding the main cabin menus needing a link to AlaskaReceipts.com for passengers, and reworking the menu layout to help avoid confusing pre order fresh food for picnic packs/retail snacks. 

    Supplemental Insurance Open Enrollment

    from the Benefits Committee

    National Group Protection (NGP) announces the open enrollment period for supplemental benefit plans for AFA members at Alaska Airlines.  

    NGP offers services to include:

    • Accident Insurance 
    •  Hospital Indemnity
    • Critical Illness Coverage
    • Whole Life Insurance

    NGP offers the following options:

    • Supplemental – these plans supplement any existing coverage
    • Voluntary – members choose to participate
    • Limited Underwriting – no medical or physical exams required
    • Family Coverage – available with all of the plans
    • Portable – members can continue coverage if they leave the company
    • Payroll Deduction – premiums are paid through payroll deduction

    The Virtual Enrollment for Alaska AFA members is open from October 10-31, 2022.  

    New Bus Service from Hayward and Castro Valley to SFO

    Go>SFO Shuttle is a new commuter bus for all workers at SFO, serving Hayward and Castro Valley. Please review the info bulletin for route schedules and details.

    Participation Request from SFO Airport

    by FlySFO
    The SFO airport has convened an Employee Safety Task Force, and we want to hear your ideas and suggestions so we can continue to enhance safety measures at the Airport. We are seeking your input as we continue to better understand how you feel about safety and security, as well as the possibility of implementing a Chaperon Program. Therefore, your survey participation is valuable. Please complete the Safety and Security Survey, by 1700 Wednesday, October 5, 2022.  For questions, please contact Ralf Ruckelshausen at Ralf.Ruckelshausen@flysfo.com.

    Negotiations Update

    Stay updated on the progress of negotiations by visiting the Negotiations subsite, which can be found on the AFA Alaska website.  Want to get involved?  It’s not too late!  Council 35 is looking for Mobilization Committee members to support Section 6 Negotiations in SFO.  Please reach out to Trista Vanta, the C35 Mobilization Committee chair and/or fill out the online request form to participate in events.

    Bernstein v. Virgin America Lawsuit Updates

    A member of the Alaska legal team will be hosting CA base sits for September and October to answer Flight Attendant questions. Flight Attendants who take advantage of this opportunity are strongly encouraged to visit the Bernstein v. Virgin America subsite, on the plaintiff’s attorney webpage. This will provide for a well balanced viewpoint of the issue.

    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,

    Melissa, Virginia, James and Brad


    Melissa Osborne, LEC President •  melissa.osborne@afaalaska.org • 415-275-1322
    Virginia Fritz, LEC Vice President •  virginia.fritz@afaalaska.org • 408.489.8200
    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: Bernstein, Council 35, Inflight Service Committee, lawsuit, negotiations, Newsletter, September, supplemental, transportation

    AFA Update – April 6, 2020

    April 6, 2020 12:00

    In This Edition

    • Cancellation of April & May Recurrent Training
    • Reminders About Layover Transportation and Meals
    • Reporting Uniform Reactions
    • Voluntary Benefits Updates & Information
    • AFA EAP Support Services
    • CWA/NETT and LinkedIn Learning

    Cancellation of April & May Recurrent Training

    On Friday, management announced that they would be cancelling recurrent training (RT) for the months of April and May as a precautionary measure in the wake of the COVID-19 outbreak.    Along with the cancellation announcement, management also provided information about an FAA temporary exemption granting a two-month extension to Flight Attendants with April and May base months (as well as some Flight Attendants scheduled for RT at the end of March).  This exemption will give affected Flight Attendants an additional two grace months during which to complete RT in 2020 (e.g. a Flight Attendant whose base month is April and grace month is May will now have June and July as additional grace months this year).

    AFA representatives have requested that management remove the April cancelled classes from rosters in Crew Access as soon as possible in order to allow Flight Attendants to manage their schedules and trade and/or pick up flying if desired.  Crew Planning is also in the process of removing RT pre-planned absence from NavBlue to allow Flight Attendants who were scheduled for class in May to bid normally.  Management has indicated that they will contact Flight Attendants whose RT class has been cancelled to discuss rescheduling options but they have not yet provided AFA with specifics on what the process for rescheduling will be.

    If you have questions about the April/May recurrent training cancellations, please contact Inflight Training management directly at inflight.training@alaskaair.com.


    Reminders About Layover Transportation and Meals

    Hotel Committee

    Dedicated Crew-Only Layover Hotel Transportation

    The AFA Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update – March 19, 2020 provided information about the temporary implementation of dedicated crew-only layover hotel transportation.  Management also communicated this information in bulletin #2020-0016, issued on March 17.  As a reminder, this crew-only transportation may be either hotel-provided van that is dedicated for crewmembers only or separate contracted transportation.  Please reference your trip information in Crew Access to determine whether the hotel or a contracted vendor will be providing layover hotel transportation.  You can also find a complete list of dedicated transportation providers on the Inflight website > Hotel, Travel, & Station > Hotel News > Dedicated Transportation.

    As always, if you encounter any issues with a transportation provider, please notify your AFA Hotel Committee by filing a CrewCare report.

    Food Availability on Layovers

    At the request of AFA, management has compiled a list of food availability at each layover hotel throughout the system.  This list is updated regularly to ensure the most up-to-date information.  It can be found on the Inflight website > Hotel, Travel, & Station > Hotel News > Food Availability.

    Questions?

    Your AFA Hotel Committee is here to assist and support you in all matters related to layover hotels and transportation.  You can find contact information for your Local Hotel Committee by clicking here.


    Reporting Uniform Reactions

    Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC)

    With the launch of the new Unisync uniform, our AFA Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC) and Uniform Committee would like to offer a reminder about how to report reactions or safety concerns related to the new uniform pieces.  Management has outlined the process for reporting these concerns in a document that is housed on the uniform subsite of Alaska’s World.  You can access the document directly by clicking here (AAG sign on required).

    Questions?

    If you have questions about how to report uniform reactions or need assistance in navigating the process, please contact AFA Uniform Safety Representative Deb Wallstrom at uniform.reactions@afaalaska.org.


    Voluntary Benefits Updates & Information

    Benefits Committee

    Our AFA Benefits Committee has received information that Alaska employees who have either 401(k) through Vanguard or Alaska Credit Union loans may be eligible for modified payment arrangements.  National Group Protection (NGP) has also provided information about continuation of coverage for anyone enrolled in the NGP/CAIC supplemental benefits program who takes a leave of absence.

    Vanguard – 401(k) Loans

    • You can suspend a loan for up to 12 months
    • It can take up to two pay periods to process the suspension
    • Once the request has been processed, the 12 month suspension begins
    • You can reinstate payments earlier without penalty
    • You can also make payments during the suspension of any amount without penalty.  If you choose to do so, it will not restart your loan.
    • You will accrue interest during that time – but this is interest you pay yourself.  This may adjust your loan payment amount once your loan is reinstated.

    For assistance with Vanguard 401(k) loan suspensions, contact Vanguard Participant Services at (800) 523-1188 (available Mon-Fri, 5:30 AM to 6 PM Pacific time).  You can also reach out to Jamie Smalley with specific questions at jaime.smalley@alaskaair.com.

    Alaska Air Group Credit Union Loans 

    The Alaska Air Group Credit Union (AAGCU) is offering an emergency skip-a-payment option that may allow customers to skip to three monthly payments on certain AAGCU loans.  For more information about this program, including a link to apply, please visit the AAGCU website by clicking here.

    AFA Supplemental Benefits – National Group Protection

    National Group Protection (NGP) has provided information for those who are enrolled in the NGP/CAIC supplemental benefits program and take a Leave of Absence (LOA).  These special provisions include:

    • Coverage will continue without interruption during the LOA
    • Premiums are not due during the LOA
    • CAIC will honor claims during the LOA
    • No action is required on your part to maintain your coverage

    Complete information can be found in this document.  If you have any questions, please contact National Group at (800) 344-9016 or service@ngp-ins.com.


    AFA EAP Support Services

    Employee Assistance Program (EAP)/Professional Standards Committee

    AFA EAP has put together several resources to help Flight Attendants manage their personal mental health and wellness during the COVID-19 outbreak.  All services are available in either a telephone or online format.  For a complete list of support services being offered, schedules, and access information, please click here.

    Questions?

    Please contact your Local EAP Committee for more information or assistance.


    CWA/NETT and LinkedIn Learning

    AFA International

    As a part of CWA, AFA members are entitled to take advantage of complimentary online learning through CWA/NETT.  CWA/NETT provides you and your family with access to hundreds of online training courses through LinkedIn Learning. This might be the perfect time to brush up on existing skills or learn new ones. 

    Examples of learning titles include:

    • Zoom Meetings
    • Microsoft Collaboration
    • Microsoft Excel
    • Sharepoint

    You can get started by completing this form.  The form requires your CWA local number, which you can find on the Contact Us page of the AFA Alaska website under FAQs > Membership and Dues Questions > What’s My CWA Local Number.

    Questions?

    If you have any questions, please contact your LEC Officers.

    Filed Under: Air Safety, Health, & Security Committee (ASHSC), Benefits Committee, EAP/Professional Standards Committee, Hotel Committee, Inflight Training Committee, Latest News, Master Executive Council (MEC), Uniform Committee Tagged With: 2020, Benefits, COVID-19, CWA, EAP, hotels, layovers, novel coronavirus, recurrent training, transportation, uniform, uniform reactions

    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

    [pmAS] Additional Transportation Options Between Domiciles/Co-Terminals/Out Stations

    February 2, 2018 09:00

    This message is for pre-merger Alaska Airlines Flight Attendants

    Due to several recent flight diversions and how crew member transportation was handled in those situations, AFA has worked with management to clarify what options Flight Attendants have for transportation in these situations.  A memorandum of understanding (MOU) has been signed with the Company putting this clarification in writing.

    If your flight is diverted and passengers and crew members are transported by ground, you have the contractual right to be transported separately from the passengers per §22.B of the Flight Attendant collective bargaining agreement.  The new MOU gives you the additional option to use the transportation provided for passengers in such a situation if you choose to do so.

    If you have any questions about the MOU, please contact your Local Council Officers.

    In Solidarity,

    Your MEC – Jeffrey Peterson, Brian Palmer, Linda Christou, Lisa Pinkston, Terry Taylor, Mario de’Medici, Melissa Osborne, Tim Green, Brice McGee; and MEC Scheduling Committee Chairperson Jake Jones

    Filed Under: Contract, Latest News, Reserve Committee, Scheduling Committee Tagged With: 2018, diversion, ground transportation, MOU, transportation

    [AS] Layover Hotel and Transportation Reminders

    June 8, 2017 05:00

    This message is for pre-merger Alaska Flight Attendants

    The busy summer travel season is nearly upon us and is anticipated to be one of the busiest travel seasons on record.  Along with the increase in travel comes the possibility of irregular operations and things going awry pertaining to layover hotels and transportation.  As a reminder, management has a responsibility to provide hotel accommodations and corresponding transportation to and from the hotel to Flight Attendants on a layover.  This information is contained in section 34 of the contract.

    If you have a problem with your hotel or transportation, report it!

    Management, in conjunction with their hotel vendor API, uses a website called My Crew Care to collect feedback from crew members on hotel and transportation issues. My Crew Care, can be accessed through the Flight Attendant Website from the main menu > Hotels > Hotel Links > My Crew Care.

    In order to take action on issues with layover hotels and transportation, your AFA Hotel Committee needs to know when you have a problem.  Reports submitted through My Crew Care are automatically routed to your AFA Hotel Committee so they can track issues and trends in our layover locations.

    Save A Shortcut to My Crew Care on Your IMD

    You can save a shortcut to My Crew Care on your IMD so that you have easy access to report hotel or transportation concerns when you’re on the go.  The shortcut will appear just like any app icon on your IMD’s home screen.  When you tap the icon, you’ll be taken directly to the My Crew Care website.

    To add My Crew Care as a shortcut on your IMD home screen:

    1. Tap on Alaska Inflight Website
    2. Tap on the hamburger menu
    3. Tap on Hotel & Station
    4. Expand Hotel Links and select My Crew Care
    5. Tap on the Share button at the bottom of the screen
    6. Tap on Add to Home Screen
    7. Change the name to “My Crew Care” and tap on Add
    8. Press and hold until the shortcut icon “wiggles” and move it to your desired home screen

    Management has put together a version of this instructions with screenshots included for easy step-by-step reference.  You can access these instructions by clicking here (login required).

    First Time Using My Crew Care System?

    When you open the My Crew Care site for the first time, you’ll need to register with your alaskaair.com email address.  After registering, the system will send you a confirmation email.  From the confirmation email, click the link to confirm your registration.  Once you complete this registration process, you won’t need to do it again.  API has written a user guide for the My Crew Care system that you can access by clicking here.

    Bed Bug Resources

    Being aware of bed bugs and other in-room pests is important, especially going into summer.  If you encounter bugs in your hotel room, immediately report the situation to the hotel for resolution and file a report in My Crew Care.  We’ve put together some information about bed bugs, including how to inspect your room for bugs upon arrival and how to tell the difference between bed bugs and other bugs.  You can find these resources through the Hotel Committee page of the AFA Alaska website or by clicking here.

    Your Local Hotel Committee Is Here to Help

    Members of your Local Hotel Committee are here to assist you with addressing any layover hotel or transportation-related concerns.  You can find contact information on the Hotel Committee page of the AFA Alaska website.

    In Solidarity,

    Your MEC – Jeffrey Peterson, Brian Palmer, Linda Christou, Lisa Pinkston, Laura Masserant, Cathy Gwynn, Melissa Osborne, Tim Green, Brice McGee, MEC Hotel Committee Chairperson Laura Hinojosa and MEC Hotel Committee Vice Chairperson Jodi Snow

    Filed Under: Hotel Committee, Latest News Tagged With: 2017, API, bed bugs, Hotel, layover, My Crew Care, transportation

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    Latest news from our Negotiating Committee about Session 11 of contract negotiations, including a TA on LOA 5: Sick Family/Sick Child, discussion on Leaves of Absence, General - Association, and Training, and updates on current progress.
    Members of our Master Executive Council (MEC) and other AFA Representatives will attend the AFA Board of Directors (BOD) Meeting next week. The BOD meeting is where business affecting all AFA airlines is conducted. Your LEC President is your representative at the BOD meeting and will be voting on your behalf regarding the approval of the AFA International budget. If you have any questions about the BOD meeting, please contact your LEC President.
    As an AFA and CWA Member, you and/or certain eligible dependents have the opportunities for at least two different scholarships. An additional opportunity, the Union Plus Free College Benefit, offers the ability to earn a degree with no out of pocket expense for tuition, fees, and e-books. Check out the links below for eligibility requirements, application information, and other important details for each opportunity.
    Our AFA EAP/Professional Standards Committee (Members helping Members) seeks to assist Members, their families, and partners experiencing personal and work-related problems that could or are affecting their health and well-being on and off the job. Our EAP committee is a Union-sponsored support service provided by Flight Attendants for Flight Attendants, their families, and partners. EAP Peer Representatives are trained to provide three distinct but interrelated services: Assessment, Support, and Referral Services; Professional Standards; and Critical Incident Response.
    Our AFA Government Affairs Committee met with their representatives on Capitol Hill and urged them to pass the FAA Reauthorization Bill. This bill will improve aviation safety and conditions onboard the aircraft for flight crew and passengers. Top priorities discussed with Congress include cabin air safety, and stopping disruptive passenger abuse towards crew members and gate agents.
    Our AFA Reserve Committee Chairpersons met on Thursday, March 9 to discuss their ongoing program of work to represent and advocate for our Reserve Flight Attendants. The Committee also met with management to review a number of specific concerns that were brought forward by Flight Attendants. Your Local Reserve Committee is available to answer questions, provide clarification, or help to resolve any reserve related issues. Please don’t hesitate to reach out!

    Latest News

    • AFA Alaska News in Review – March 24, 2023
    • AFA Alaska News in Review – March 17, 2023
    • Upcoming 2023 AFA Board of Directors Meeting
    • 2023 College Scholarship Opportunities
    • EAP/Professional Standards Committee News – March 2023
    • Reserve Committee Meeting Recap – 1st Quarter 2023
    • AFA Alaska News in Review – March 10, 2023
    • Help Support SkyWest Flight Attendant Organizing in LAX & SAN!
    • April 2023 Bidding – Analyzer Tool Error
    • March 2023 MEC Meeting Recap

    Upcoming 2023 AFA Board of Directors Meeting

    March 16, 2023

    Master Executive Council (MEC) Next week, our Master Executive Council (MEC) Officers, Local Executive Council (LEC) Presidents, and many other LEC Officers and Committee Chairs will be attending the 50th Annual AFA Board of Directors (BOD) meeting being held virtually. They will join representatives from the other airlines that make up AFA to conduct the business of […]

    2023 College Scholarship Opportunities

    March 16, 2023

    AFA International As an AFA and CWA Member, you and/or certain eligible dependents have the opportunities for at least two different scholarships for the pursuit of higher education.  The time for applying is now! Brought to you by our Union, these benefits of union membership have become very popular with Members.  Please see the respective links for […]

    EAP/Professional Standards Committee News – March 2023

    March 15, 2023

    EAP/Professional Standards Committee Our AFA EAP/Professional Standards Committee (Members helping Members) seeks to assist Members, their families, and partners experiencing personal and work-related problems that could or are affecting their health and well-being on and off the job. Our EAP committee is a Union-sponsored support service provided by Flight Attendants for Flight Attendants, their families, […]

    Reserve Committee Meeting Recap – 1st Quarter 2023

    March 13, 2023

    Reserve Committee On Thursday, March 9, representatives from our AFA Local Reserve Committees met to discuss their ongoing work to advocate for Reserve Flight Attendants. Representing you at the meeting were Heather Reier (ANC), Teran Eason (SEA), Anthony Eskander (PDX), Meghan Casey (SFO), Kanako Yamada (LAX), and Rebecca Garcia (SAN).  Also present was MEC Reserve […]

    Help Support SkyWest Flight Attendant Organizing in LAX & SAN!

    March 10, 2023

    AFA International SkyWest Flight Attendants are organizing to form their Union and join AFA-CWA! Help support their efforts by joining in an upcoming SkyWest AFA “Concourse Chats” visibility event. The goal of the events is to engage 1-on-1, in-person and have conversations with SkyWest Flight Attendants to learn their issues and priorities and invite them […]

    Response to the November 18th Inflight Town Hall Webcast

    November 18, 2022 By Jeffrey Peterson (MEC President)

    California meal & rest breaks Management’s continued scare tactics and speculative “what-if’s” as put forward during the Inflight Town Hall webcast today regarding California meal & rest breaks are unnecessary and extremely disappointing. Although it is true there are some challenging aspects of compliance with California meal & rest break laws for commercial aviation, AFA […]

    ALPA Alaska Approves Tentative Agreement for Pilot Ratification

    September 23, 2022 By Jeffrey Peterson (MEC President)

    Master Executive Council (MEC) President Jeffrey Peterson The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA) Alaska Airlines leadership recently announced they approved a tentative agreement (TA) with Alaska Airlines management for pilot ratification. Click here for the Alaska Airlines Pilots TA Quick Guide (September 2022) > At a quick glance, the TA contains impressive improvements to scope, […]

    Masks Are No Longer Required in Airports or Onboard

    April 18, 2022 By Jeffrey Peterson (MEC President)

    The CDC and TSA report the federal mask mandate is no longer in effect after today’s court ruling. Additionally, Alaska Airlines management just announced via multiple channels that the mask mandate is lifted effective immediately on all aircraft.

    RSS Negotiations News

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    • Can you clarify the pay components included in our Opening Proposal (Ground, Flight, Delay, Stranded)?
    • Negotiation Session 6
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    Recent Posts

    • AFA Alaska News in Review – March 24, 2023
    • AFA Alaska News in Review – March 17, 2023
    • Upcoming 2023 AFA Board of Directors Meeting
    • 2023 College Scholarship Opportunities
    • EAP/Professional Standards Committee News – March 2023
    • Reserve Committee Meeting Recap – 1st Quarter 2023
    • AFA Alaska News in Review – March 10, 2023
    • Help Support SkyWest Flight Attendant Organizing in LAX & SAN!
    • April 2023 Bidding – Analyzer Tool Error
    • March 2023 MEC Meeting Recap

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