Flight Attendants Rally for Higher Wages

Flight attendants from United Airlines, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and others staged pickets at airports across the United States, demanding higher wages and improved quality of life. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, representing cabin crews at United, Spirit, Frontier, and other airlines, joined forces with other labor unions to hold these mass pickets. Their aim is to secure better compensation after two decades of austerity.

The demonstrations come on the heels of pay raises already granted to airline pilots, autoworkers, Hollywood writers, and major companies like UPS. Most flight attendants at major airlines have not received pay increases since before the pandemic, despite the rising cost of living.

Flight attendants on average earn around $67,000 per year, with salaries ranging from approximately $38,000 to $97,000. However, inflation has disproportionately affected new hires, making it particularly challenging for them. The unions are advocating for ground pay or boarding pay to compensate flight attendants for their pre-flight work.

While flight attendants’ contracts do not have expiration dates and going on strike would require federal approval, several unions have approved strike authorizations. All four carriers are currently negotiating with their flight attendants’ unions through federal mediation.

Although Southwest Airlines flight attendants rejected a tentative agreement in a vote last year, the airline remains engaged in discussions with the union and the National Mediation Board to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.

Flight attendants play a critical role in the airline industry, and it is essential for their wages and working conditions to reflect their dedication and contribution. As negotiations continue, it is hoped that they will achieve their goals and secure better compensation for their hard work.

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