Association of Flight Attendants-CWA

Washington, DC – The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA), representing over 25,000 Flight Attendants at United Airlines, today announced an agreement with United management that averts involuntary furloughs at the world’s leading airline through improved voluntary options. The mutual agreement between AFA and management also provides employment for Flight Attendants originally slated to lose their jobs by offering an enhanced crossover agreement to pre-merger Continental Airlines.

“Through collaborative efforts, AFA was able to engage management in meaningful discussions on how to ensure that no Flight Attendant is forced out on the street without a paycheck. By focusing on feasible, timely solutions, AFA was able to negotiate continued options for all Flight Attendants while recognizing the value and seniority of those affected,” said Veda Shook, AFA International President.

“Our first priority is to defend the careers of United Flight Attendants. This agreement provides for a reasonable solution that mitigates involuntary furloughs, ensuring that all Flight Attendants continue to advance their careers at United Airlines. Solidarity and determination were integral parts of these discussions to reduce the negative impact on Flight Attendants. We look forward to continuing to move forward together as we remain focused on a single contract that reflects our collective success,” said Greg Davidowitch, AFA president at pre-merger United.

“I applaud everyone involved for their willingness to come together and agree on additional options for the affected United Flight Attendants.  This letter provides additional benefits and options that required mutual agreement to implement.  This new agreement enhances the original bridge agreement with seniority protections and benefits that would otherwise have not been possible without our mutual effort,” said Marcus Valentino, AFA President at the pre-merger Continental. “United Flight Attendants stand together as we continue to move this merger forward in a positive way. We remain dedicated to advancing our profession through innovation and collaboration.”

The Association of Flight Attendants is the world’s largest Flight Attendant union. Focused 100 percent on Flight Attendant issues, AFA has been the leader in advancing the Flight Attendant profession for 68 years. Serving as the voice for Flight Attendants in the workplace, in the aviation industry, in the media and on Capitol Hill, AFA has transformed the Flight Attendant profession by raising wages, benefits and working conditions. Nearly 60,000 Flight Attendants come together to form AFA, part of the 700,000-member strong Communications Workers of America (CWA), AFL-CIO. Visit us at www.afacwa.org.