Alaska Airlines flight attendants reject proposed contract with significant pay raises

The rejection of Alaska's contract comes as American Airlines flight attendants are voting on their own new deal. Concerns over work rules, competitive pay rates, and union negotiation priorities are central issues for American’s flight attendants, rather than hourly rates or profit sharing.

Key concerns among Alaska's flight attendants included the lack of reduced reserve levels and no snap-up provision that could allow Delta and United flight attendants to out-earn them quickly. Additionally, many prefer increased wage rates over boarding pay, which benefits junior crew more than senior crew.

While it remains uncertain how much better terms Alaska’s flight attendants can secure, they will have to wait longer for any potential improvements. This decision comes despite Alaska Airlines' current strong financial performance. In contrast, American Airlines is performing less well financially, making the prospect of waiting for a better deal riskier for its employees.

Some American Airlines flight attendants are prepared to oppose their contract further, willing to take the gamble in hopes of securing improved terms.