“Ten years after September 11th emotions still run deep. We are grateful to our President and all of the women and men who are responsible for bringing this sense of justice for our friends and heroes who were the first to give their lives in defense of our country that day. September 11th showcased the tremendous bravery of Flight Attendants. Our heroes on those four fateful flights acted as first responders. They relayed the first intelligence of the day that served to alert our country and our fellow crewmembers on flight 93 who in turn acted without reservation against evil, sacrificing their own lives to protect our country and lives of countless others.
“Every day since September 11th, Flight Attendants go to work with an even greater sense of responsibility. We know that not only are we first responders to emergencies affecting the health and safety of our passengers and other crewmembers, we are also our nation’s last line of defense in aviation security. Twenty-five Flight Attendants died on September 11th. Today, and every day, we honor their memory. We will never forget:” Read full media statement >
The Workers Memorial Day ceremony at the AFL-CIO’s National Labor College featured AFA Secretary-Treasurer Kevin Creighan on a panel discussing the struggle for safe workplaces. Noting that on the 40th anniversary of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), Flight Attendants still are not covered by OSHA. AFA's presence on the panel and Kevin’s comments are just the latest in AFA's continued demand for the mandatory safety and health protections for Flight Attendants that only OSHA can provide. Read more>>
National Mediation Board Announces Dates for Union Election
Washington, DC – The National Mediation Board (NMB) today announced the voting schedule for a representation election for United, Continental and Continental Micronesia Flight Attendants. Balloting instructions will be sent to the over 24,000 Flight Attendants on May 17 and voting will close June 29, 2011.
"Flight Attendants at the new United Airlines are ready to take control of their careers at the world’s largest airline following the merger of their respective airlines," said Veda Shook, AFA International President. “As the world’s largest Flight Attendant union, run by Flight Attendants, AFA has been on the forefront of every important Flight Attendant issue for 66 years, building the Flight Attendant career and promoting our work as first responders. Our union's founding members from United together with our soon-to-be newest members from Continental are poised to work together in AFA to advance our profession with an industry-leading contract at the new United Airlines." Full Press Release>>PDF Version
Don’t Let Congress Interfere with Airline Organizing: Text “NMB” to 69866
A provision that would force the National Mediation Board (NMB) to revert back to antiquated voting rules for union elections is contained in the FAA reauthorization bill. Before a final vote takes place next week, this provision must be removed from the bill.
The old rule automatically assigned “no” votes to workers who were eligible to vote in an election but who did not participate. On July 1, 2010, the old undemocratic rule was changed so that now, the NMB counts all votes cast in a union election—no less and no more. Americans wouldn’t tolerate this kind of voting in presidential or congressional elections; why should we allow it in union elections?
To maintain our democratic voting rights, text “NMB” to 69866 and you will receive a text message in return. When you reply to this message, you will receive a phone call explaining the issue, a sample script and then you will be connected to your Representative’s office. Simply say: “Hello, my name is:_________ and I am a member of the Association of Flight Attendants from (your city of residence). I believe that fair and democratic elections are a fundamental right. Please tell the Representative to strike section 903 from the FAA bill.”
Take action today and text “NMB” to 69866
Japan Update
In the week that has passed since the 9.0 earthquake struck Japan, the densely-populated island nation was devastated by the ensuing tsunami, aftershocks and the still unfolding nuclear emergency. Our hearts go out to the people of Japan and to all of the people impacted by this disaster.
In this solemn and, for many, frightening moment, we offer comfort to our sisters and brothers and are reminded of the bonds we share as Flight Attendants.
Throughout the week, AFA leadership has been fielding concerns from and finding solutions for our Flight Attendant members throughout our system, especially those members working on flights operating into and out of Japan, as well as those members who live in and around Tokyo. AFA airlines that serve Japan include Hawaiian Airlines (HAL), Miami Air (MIA), Ryan International (RYN), and United Airlines (UAL). Delta also serves Japan.
Members’ primary concern is radiation exposure—in flight, during layovers, and while residing in the area. Other concerns include access to food, water, electricity, safe hotels, transportation, and basic supplies (e.g., toilet paper, flashlights), as well as potential aftershocks.
Under what conditions would airlines stop flights? As of 3/17/11, all U.S. passenger airlines are continuing service to Japan. Supplies are needed and many people are trying to leave the area; the U.S. State Department has advised against non-essential travel to Japan. AFA established contact with several key agencies in the U.S. that are monitoring and assessing Japan’s ongoing nuclear emergency. We have spoken to the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA), the National Atmospheric Release Advisory Center (NARAC), the Department of Energy (DOE), and the FAA Command Center. According to the FAA contact, they are debriefing daily with the other agencies and should the situation warrant, the FAA will issue information to the airlines to suspend service to any affected area.
Should Flight Attendants with certain medical conditions avoid flying to Japan? Flight Attendants who are pregnant or want to conceive should avoid radiation exposure under any conditions. Because the nature of exposures during these flights and layovers has not been characterized, it may be prudent for such Flight Attendants to avoid these trips. Radiation-induced genetic mutations can be transmitted by both the mother and the father, so prospective fathers also need to exercise caution.
What is AFA doing to evaluate the radiation? Recognizing the uncertainty of the situation in Japan and to get a better understanding of any health threats to our members flying in and out of the area, as well as those living in the area, AFA is distributing radiation monitors to analyze possible Flight Attendant exposures. These devices will allow us to collect representative data to characterize any possible measurable radiation exposures to our members.
What precautionary measures should I take if I am flying to Japan?Foods to avoid: The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that people avoid consuming locally produced milk, vegetables and fruit. The agency also recommends that people avoid slaughtering animals and fishing so, presumably, this means avoiding these foods as well if they are local. Also per the WHO, “radioactivity cannot contaminate food that is packaged; for example, tinned or plastic-wrapped food is protected from radioactivity as long as the food is sealed.”
Potassium iodide pills: According to WHO, potassium iodide pills are given to saturate the thyroid gland and prevent the uptake of radioactive iodine. When given before or shortly after exposure, this step can reduce the risk of cancer in the long term. Potassium iodide pills are not "radiation antidotes." They do not protect against external radiation, or against any other radioactive substances besides radioactive iodine. Also, they should not be taken as a precautionary measure. Finally, they may also cause medical complications for some individuals such as persons with poorly functioning kidneys. So, they should be started only when there is a clear public health recommendation to take this step.
Whom do I call at AFA with my questions and concerns? Members should call their MEC or LEC EAP and Safety, Health & Security representatives. International staff is available to answer any additional questions.
What should I do if I live in Japan and need assistance? See the AFA website at www.afacwa.org for links for assistance. In addition to the critical assistance support that EAP offers and available disaster relief funds, relief supplies may also be accessible through your AFA Local Council.
There are several ways you can help. Please see the critical links below for more information.
AFA has been inundated with phone calls and emails from Flight Attendants seeking ways to reach out to their flying partners and others to help in this time of crisis. It has been a powerful affirmation of the selfless, courageous nature of Flight Attendants. United Flight Attendants alone have hand-carried more than 1,000 pounds of relief supplies to Japan in the past week. More than 1,500 Flight Attendants have volunteered to help with relief missions through the non-profit, Flight Attendant-founded Airline Ambassadors International. And the individual stories of the first responder heroism of Flight Attendants in the midst of this crisis will be many.
AFA won a major arbitration victory for hundreds of former Midwest Airlines Flight Attendants. The arbitration award validated AFA’s assertion that the Midwest Flight Attendant contract was violated after Republic Airways Holdings, Inc. purchased Midwest Airlines and staffed the same flights with non-Midwest Flight Attendants, often compensated up to 70 percent less.
"Today is a victory for Midwest Flight Attendants whose careers were stripped by corporate greed. AFA vowed to stop at nothing until management was held responsible for stealing the livelihoods of the hardworking Flight Attendants at Midwest Airlines,” said Veda Shook, AFA International President. “It took the commitment and effort of over 400 Flight Attendants and other airline employees to make Midwest one of the best in the country and only narrow corporate interests to destroy it. The Midwest Flight Attendants’ determination to right this wrong is why AFA worked tirelessly to hold management responsible.” Full Press Release>>
On March 1, AFA International President Veda Shook was seated on the AFL-CIO Executive Council. As a member of the Council, President Shook will play an influential role, ensuring a strong voice for Flight Attendants and serving as an advocate for working families.
"It is an honor to be such an integral part of the AFL-CIO, serving as the voice for working families and promoting our right for collective bargaining,” said Shook. “It is crucial that, as a council, we constantly find ways to engage workers and work together to make unions more accessible to our members and all workers who strive to have a voice at work." Full Press Release>>
Transportation Security Officers And AFGE Union
Flight Attendant First Responders Need a Strong TSO Union
As AFA members, we know the importance of a strong union voice in advancing aviation safety and security—in supporting our role as first responders. In that role, Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) are some of our most important allies. That’s why supporting the TSOs to elect a strong union and a team player that understands the importance of labor solidarity is so important. That union is AFGE, the American Federation of Government Employees, AFL-CIO.
All too often the union is the only voice focused on security while management cannot see past financial considerations. Flight Attendants need TSOs to have a union. Take a moment to watch this special video that shows what it means to be a true TSA union
In the first wave of actions, US Airways Flight Attendants demonstrated system wide on February 17, 2011 over management’s failure to negotiate a single contract. More than 600 US Airways Flight Attendants demonstrated at the company’s four crew bases in Charlotte, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington, D.C. Read more>>
Spirit Airlines Flight Attendants held an informational picketing event on January 26th in front of Spirit corporate headquarters to demand a fair contract. "We're here to let management know that we're unhappy with the proposals they’re bringing to the table and that the negotiation process has gone on for far too long," said AFA Spirit MEC President Todd St Pierre.
About 80 Flight Attendants and their supporters chanting "Spirit, Spirit stop your greed, give us the contract that we need!" drew attention from the local media and from Spirit Airlines management. Miami Air Flight Attendants made a strong showing of solidarity and support on the picket line. Click here for the full story
AFA-CWA International President Veda Shook
Veda Shook Welcomed to CWA Executive Board
AFA International President Veda Shook is sworn in to the CWA Executive Board on January 18, 2011, by CWA President Larry Cohen as Veda's husband and children look on.
"I am proud to serve as the Flight Attendant voice on the CWA Executive Board," Shook said. "Since AFA partnered with CWA over six years ago, Flight Attendants have benefited in many ways from the powerful voice we formed. I look forward to working alongside President Cohen and my fellow union leaders as we continue to improve the lives of our members through our collective strength."
NMB Ruling Would Trigger Union Election for 24,000 at New United Airlines
Chicago, IL, January 18, 2011 – The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA) today asked the National Mediation Board (NMB) to declare that the United/Continental merger has created a single-carrier, triggering a union representation election for the combined Flight Attendant workforce. Over 15,000 United Flight Attendants already are represented by AFA.
“This merger and the extraordinary financial turnaround underway at United are only possible because Flight Attendants at both airlines have invested hard work and sacrifices over the years,” said Greg Davidowitch, AFA United President. “Management must know that the Flight Attendant workforce is unified, and that we expect the best Flight Attendant contract at the world’s leading airline. Joined together in AFA we can ensure Flight Attendants are full partners in the merger with compensation, work rules and benefits that reflect our key role in the success of the new United Airlines.” Full Press Release>>
Veda Shook Leads Union as International President of AFA-CWA
Washington, DC, January 3, 2011 – New leadership is taking charge at the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA). Elected last year at AFA’s annual convention, Veda Shook took office as AFA’s International President on January 1, while Sara Nelson took over as International Vice President, and Kevin Creighan entered his second full term as International Secretary-Treasurer.
"We have a clear vision for our future,” said Shook. “We will work to rebuild the Flight Attendant profession as a good career by negotiating new standards in pay, benefits and working conditions. Many contracts were decimated during the post-9/11 industry bankruptcy era, but now, as the industry is experiencing a phenomenal resurgence, it is our time to advance our careers. We will also promote the Flight Attendant profession by taking every opportunity to seek recognition and respect for Flight Attendants. We are first responders, we are a key link in the safety, security and success of commercial aviation, and it’s time for that to be recognized by the public, by lawmakers and by airline management. We will raise Flight Attendant standards across the board." Full Press Release>>
Flight Attendants Security Screening
AFA-CWA and TSA Joint Statement
"The Transportation Security (TSA) recognizes the vital role flight attendants play in aviation security and as such, TSA Administrator John S. Pistole remains committed to exploring ways to expedite security screening for flight attendants by verifying their identity and employment at the checkpoint at airports nationwide, modeled after a successful test program for airlines pilots that is currently operational at three airports.
Flight attendants, like pilots, traveling in uniform on official airline business will see immediate modifications to their checkpoint screening process due to their trusted status.
Crew members will continue to be subject to random screening and other layers of security."
AFA-CWA Challenges Company’s Interference in Delta Election
Hundreds of Delta Air Lines flight attendants have reported illegal and unfair methods used by Delta management to influence the results of the recent union representation election at their airline. Feedback includes reports of the company's anti-AFA literature, supervisor meddling, phone calls to flight attendant homes and use of Delta computers to vote. On November 3, 2010, the NMB counted 9,216 votes in favor of union representation for Delta flight attendants and 9,544 votes against.
The AFA-CWA Legal Department will file charges with the National Mediation Board (NMB) based on these reports. The NMB has extended the deadline for filing due to the large volume of information from flight attendants that must be reviewed. Once assembled, AFA-CWA will deliver these reports to the NMB and to interested members of Congress. On Capitol Hill, our Government Affairs Department has met with a positive response from members of the House and Senate to gain their support for an NMB investigation of our interference charges.
AFA-CWA Launches Public Campaign to End Carry-On Crunch
Washington, DC, March 15, 2010 - The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA) today released the results of a recent membership survey in which one out of two flight attendants witnessed carry-on items falling from overhead bins in the previous 60 days. The survey validated anecdotal reports that carry-on baggage is out of control, mostly due to recent fees to check luggage.
"We now have compelling evidence that flight attendants and passengers are being injured by excess amounts of oversized carry-on items," said Patricia Friend, AFA-CWA International President. "AFA-CWA has been urging Congress, government agencies, and carriers to establish reasonable carry-on limitations that will improve the overall safety, health and security of crew and passengers inside the aircraft cabin. These limits will reduce injuries and distractions caused by carry-ons and allow flight attendants to devote more attention to the critical task of ensuring the safest and most secure flight possible." Full Press Release»
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) in partnership with American Association of Community colleges (AACC) is conducting trainings.For dates, locations and Points of Contacts (POCs) for 2009, for the "Crew Member Self-Defense Training (CMSDT)" Program, click here»
