Alaska Airlines faces labor disputes amid merger and executive salary concerns

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By Sky Industry News

Dec 1, 2024

Alaska Airlines, the fifth-largest carrier in the United States, is currently dealing with labor challenges as it heads into a busy travel season. The airline's flight attendants are pushing for a new contract, using Alaska's merger with Hawaiian Airlines as leverage in their demands.

The Seattle-based airline has been negotiating with its flight attendants' union for several months. In August, a proposed contract was rejected by 68% of union members. This offer included an average pay increase of 32%, payment for boarding time, and reassignment pay. Despite federal mediation assistance, negotiations have continued following the rejection.

The Association of Flight Attendants (AFA), representing over 6,000 Alaska flight attendants, remains engaged in talks through a federal mediator. They argue that the airline's recent $1.9 billion acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines indicates financial capacity to meet their demands. Additionally, they point to high executive salaries as further justification for increased compensation.

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According to The Seattle Times, negotiations are now moving at an accelerated pace due to upcoming discussions scheduled for March regarding the integration of Hawaiian's flight attendants and seniority list with Alaska’s workforce. Failure to finalize a contract before these discussions could result in lost opportunities for crew members.

Mediation sessions took place from November 19th to November 21st without specific details disclosed about potential agreements. However, both sides reportedly made progress toward reaching a better contract.

Two additional mediation sessions are planned for December 2024 and January 2025. Both parties hope these meetings will lead to a final agreement.

In efforts to maintain reliable service during the holiday season, the union has advised against any collective actions such as coordinated sick calls or other disruptions which are deemed illegal.