Possible strike looms as American Airlines flight attendants make major move

A significant majority of flight attendants at American Airlines have voted in favor of authorizing union leaders to call for a strike. This move is intended to increase pressure on the carrier during ongoing negotiations regarding pay raises.

The Association of Professional Flight Attendants announced on Wednesday that over 99% of members who participated in the vote supported granting the union the power to call a strike. The union also organized picketing at various airports to show solidarity.

“Today, we have sent a clear message to the management of American Airlines: We are energized and prepared for a new contract. They would be wise not to ignore this strike vote,” stated Julie Hedrick, the National President of APFA. “Our contributions to the success of American Airlines must be acknowledged and respected.”

Hedrick noted that the flight attendants at the airline have not received a raise since 2019. In their initial proposal, the union demanded a 35% increase in pay, along with a 6% annual increase going forward. They also called for improvements in sick leave and vacation pay.

American Airlines stated that it is making progress in its negotiations with APFA. “We are committed to reaching an agreement that offers substantial and meaningful value to our flight attendants,” the company said in a statement. “We recognize that a strike authorization vote is an important means for flight attendants to express their desire for a favorable resolution.”

Why a strike is unlikely

It is important to note that the vote does not guarantee an immediate or probable strike. Due to federal law, airline unions face significant obstacles in legally conducting strikes. Under the Railway Labor Act, unions must obtain a decision from federal mediators stating that further negotiations would be futile, which is a rare occurrence. Additionally, the president and Congress have the power to intervene and delay or prevent a strike.

Hedrick acknowledged on Wednesday that flight attendants cannot go on strike unless granted permission by the National Mediation Board, and only after a formal 30-day “cooling off” period has passed. “However, if the management continues to propose concessions and offer minimal improvements to compensation and retirement, we will not hesitate to request permission to strike if necessary,” she added.

Earlier this month, American Airlines’ pilots approved a contract that will increase average pay by more than 40% over the course of four years. It is unlikely that flight attendants will receive a similar raise, as they have less bargaining power compared to pilots, who are currently in high demand.

Other airline unions are also advocating for new contracts. Pilots at Southwest Airlines and flight attendants at United Airlines plan to engage in picketing at airports on Thursday.