American Airlines flight attendants say their pay is so low, they fight for airplane meals to save money and sleep in their cars—and they're ready to strike
What are the main reasons APFA rejected American Airlines' recent pay increase offer?
The Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) rejected American Airlines' recent pay increase offer for several reasons:
- The offer was considered a "PR move" by the union, as it came ahead of strike negotiations between American Airlines and the union.
- The proposed 17% wage increase was deemed insufficient to address the flight attendants' financial struggles, especially considering the high cost of living in cities where many of them are based.
- The union is seeking a comprehensive contract that addresses various concerns, such as low wages, inadequate food expense allowances, and other terms of agreement, rather than just a pay raise.
- The APFA is proposing a 33% raise, in line with the rise in inflation since 2014, with a cap at $91 per hour during the first year of a new contract, and additional pay raises for each subsequent year.
In summary, the APFA rejected American Airlines' pay increase offer because it was seen as an insufficient gesture that did not adequately address the flight attendants' financial difficulties and other concerns. The union is seeking a comprehensive contract that provides a more significant pay raise and resolves other issues important to the flight attendants.
How does the proposed 17% pay increase by American Airlines compare to the starting salaries of flight attendants since the last contract negotiation in 2014?
The proposed 17% pay increase by American Airlines would raise the starting salary of entry-level flight attendants from $27,315 per year to $31,959 per year. This increase is significant, as it pushes the wages of junior flight attendants above the eligibility level for food stamps in states like Massachusetts and Florida. However, this increase is still lower than what the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) is demanding, which is a 33% raise in line with the rise in inflation since 2014. The union argues that the current starting salaries have not kept up with the cost of living and inflation over the past eight years, leaving many flight attendants struggling to make ends meet.
What specific terms are the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) demanding in their new contract negotiations with American Airlines?
The Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) is demanding a 33% pay increase in their new contract negotiations with American Airlines. This increase is in line with the rise in inflation since 2014. They also propose a cap at $91 per hour during the first year of the new contract, with pay raises for each subsequent year. In addition to compensation, the APFA is also negotiating on issues such as sick leave, crew rest, expenses, vacations, and other terms of agreement. They have reached tentative agreements on 25 of the 39 issues, with the remaining 14 being compensation-related. The union is also insisting on retroactive pay and has stated that they will not accept any deal without it.