Thousands of Alaska Airlines flight attendants are demanding a fair contract that guarantees a living wage and safe working conditions. The flight attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA), are standing in unity to push for improvements in their pay and working conditions.
For years, many flight attendants have struggled to make ends meet, not knowing where their next good meal would come from. They were promised that things would get better, but the reality was far from it. While the airline was experiencing record profits and giving shareholders huge dividends, flight attendants were barely making enough to survive.
In 2012, the AFA fought tirelessly for a contract that would raise the wages of new flight attendants to a level where they no longer qualified for food stamps. They also sought better work rules that allowed for adequate rest and affordable health insurance. After a long and difficult battle, they were successful in increasing the wages of new hires by 100%, although it was still below the minimum wage in the states where the flight attendants are based.
Despite the progress made, flight attendants at the top of the seniority list have not received a raise in nearly 20 years. In light of this, thousands of flight attendants participated in informational picket lines on their regular days off or vacation to demand a living wage. They are asking the airline to raise wages to reflect the rising cost of living, including basic necessities like food.
Alaska Airlines, which recently reported over $500 million in profits, offered a mere 9% increase for new hires, which was rejected by the AFA. The airline is also pushing for a sick-leave policy that penalizes flight attendants for using their sick leave, despite it being illegal in several states.
The flight attendants are calling for a new contract that provides a living wage, safe working conditions, protection for sick leave, and proper rest. They hope to garner community support for their cause.
The plight of Alaska Airlines flight attendants sheds light on the struggles faced by many airline workers who work tirelessly to ensure the safety and comfort of passengers. Their demands for fair treatment and a living wage are essential for their well-being and the sustainability of the airline industry as a whole. As the negotiations continue, the hope is that all parties involved can reach a resolution that benefits everyone.
