United Airlines Flight Attendants Approve Strike

DALLAS — Just days before labor weekend, United Airlines' (UA) 28,000 unionized flight attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA-CWA), have overwhelmingly authorized their leaders to call a strike, with a 99.99% approval in a vote with a 90.21% turnout. This strong mandate comes as a response to the airline's refusal to negotiate a new contract to replace the one that expired three years ago. 

The union is pressing UA to provide better compensation and working conditions. Their demands include a substantial pay increase, retroactive wage adjustments for the past three years, compensation for all hours worked—including pre- and post-flight duties—and improved work rules. 

Ken Diaz, president of AFA's United Master Executive Council, emphasized that this vote highlights the flight attendants' unity and determination to secure their fair share of the airline's profits, especially as Labor Day travel approaches. The union criticized UA's leadership for awarding themselves significant pay increases while flight attendants struggled with basic living expenses.

Peoplesworld.com, who first broke the news, cites AFL-CIO’s Executive Paywatch, saying UA CEO Scott Kirby earned US$18.6 million last year, a figure 299 times higher than the median income of a UA worker, including well-paid pilots.

While the strike authorization does not guarantee an immediate strike due to the constraints of the Railway Labor Act, the union has signaled its readiness to employ its CHAOS (Create Havoc Around Our System) strategy, which could disrupt single flights or the entire airline's operations if the National Mediation Board allows it.

The strike vote coincided with a National Day of Action. AFA-CWA organized informational pickets at significant airports like Washington Dulles Airport (AID), Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD), and others, informing passengers of their ongoing struggle for a fair contract.

As the union continues to press for its demands, it remains steadfast in its commitment to achieving an industry-leading contract.