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United Airlines flight attendants reject new contract amid calls for better compensation

United Airlines flight attendants reject new contract amid calls for better compensation
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Scott Kirby, chief executive officer | United Airlines

Flight attendants at United Airlines have voted against a tentative labor agreement reached between the airline's management and union leadership. The proposed contract, which included immediate pay raises of 26%, was rejected by 71% of voting flight attendants.

United Airlines has reported strong financial results in recent years, with record-breaking passenger numbers and continued expansion in key markets. The Chicago-based carrier is considered one of the leading airlines in the United States for financial performance, having grown its route network and capitalized on changing travel demand.

Despite these achievements, many flight attendants believe that their compensation does not reflect their contributions to the airline’s success. The cabin crew has not received a pay raise since before the COVID-19 pandemic, even as United posted significant profits. In contrast, some other airlines have signed improved deals with their cabin crew unions during this period.

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Ken Diaz, president of United's chapter of the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA), commented on the vote: "United Flight Attendants today voted to send a strong message to United Airlines management by rejecting a tentative agreement that didn’t go far enough to address the years of sacrifice and hard work to make the airline the success it is today."

The union had encouraged members to support the deal but faced resistance from those who felt it did not meet expectations. Some flight attendants also expressed concerns about union leadership, noting that while wages for cabin crew remained stagnant over five years, AFA chapter leaders received raises of 35%. This disparity has led some members to question whether union representatives are adequately advocating for workers’ interests.

The outcome means both United Airlines and AFA will likely need to return to negotiations in search of an agreement that better addresses employee concerns. As demand for premium travel options grows and international routes expand, pressure may increase on United’s management to improve compensation packages for staff while maintaining profitability.

Organizations Included in this History
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