Sunday, January 26, 2025 The Association of Flight Attendants (AFA) representing Alaska Airlines (AS) flight attendants announced a pivotal step in ongoing labor discussions, with members set to vote on a new contract proposal. This decision marks a crucial juncture in negotiations that have spanned over two years. In August, Alaska Airlines flight attendants overwhelmingly rejected a prior tentative agreement, citing inadequate compensation for junior staff.
Many newer employees have faced severe financial strain, describing their wages as insufficient to escape economic hardship. The latest proposal features only modest adjustments to the pay structure. While base pay rates remain largely unchanged, minor increases are targeted at flight attendants with over 13 years of experience.
For junior flight attendants, the changes include a slight boost in “boarding pay,” a long-standing point of contention. Currently, flight attendants are not compensated during passenger boarding, despite performing critical tasks such as safety checks and cabin preparations. The proposed boarding pay increase, though small, offers some relief to junior staff, particularly those assigned to shorter routes.
Voting on the new contract will take place from February 11 to February 28. Union leaders are optimistic about securing member approval, viewing this agreement as a stepping stone for upcoming negotiations with Hawaiian Airlines. With Alaska Airlines’ approximately 7,000 flight attendants.