United Airlines, Flight Attendants Reach Labor Deal

Introduction to United Airlines Flight Attendants’ New Contract

United Airline flight attendants picketed outside Terminal B at Logan Airport Thursday morning seeking a new contract.

Details of the Tentative Labor Deal

United Airlines reached an "industry-leading" tentative labor deal for its 28,000 flight attendants, their union said Friday. The deal includes "40% of total economic improvements" in the first year and retroactive pay, a signing bonus, and quality of life improvements, like better scheduling and on-call time, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA said.

Key Components of the Deal

The union did not provide further details about the deal. United flight attendants have not had a raise since 2020. The cabin crew members voted last year to authorize the union to strike if a deal wasn’t reached. They had also sought federal mediation in negotiations.

Industry Context

U.S. flight attendants have pushed for wage increases for years after pilots and other work groups secured new labor deals in the wake of the pandemic. United is the last of the major U.S. carriers to get a deal done with its flight attendants.

Next Steps

The deal must still face a vote by flight attendants, and contract language will be finalized in the coming days, United said.

Conclusion

The tentative labor deal between United Airlines and its flight attendants marks a significant step forward for the airline industry. With the deal including significant economic improvements and quality of life enhancements, it is likely to have a positive impact on the flight attendants and the airline as a whole.

FAQs

Q: What is the main component of the tentative labor deal between United Airlines and its flight attendants?

A: The main component of the deal includes "40% of total economic improvements" in the first year and retroactive pay, a signing bonus, and quality of life improvements.

Q: Why did United Airlines flight attendants seek a new contract?

A: United flight attendants have not had a raise since 2020, and they sought better scheduling and on-call time, among other improvements.

Q: What is the next step in the process of finalizing the deal?

A: The deal must still face a vote by flight attendants, and contract language will be finalized in the coming days.

Q: How does this deal compare to other airlines in the industry?

A: United is the last of the major U.S. carriers to get a deal done with its flight attendants, following similar deals secured by pilots and other work groups in the wake of the pandemic.