United Flight Attendants Reject High Pay Offer Over Ground Pay Issues

The Association of Flight Attendants (AFA-CWA) has rejected a pay proposal from United Airlines that aimed to position approximately 30,000 flight attendants among the highest paid in the industry. The primary sticking point remains the union’s demand for compensation for all hours worked, including pre-flight duties and ground time, rather than just for the duration of flights.

Currently, flight attendants receive pay only from the moment the aircraft doors close until they reopen. This arrangement excludes critical activities such as check-ins, briefings, and, importantly, time spent addressing flight delays. The ongoing debate over ground pay has become a contentious issue across the airline sector as attendants push for fair compensation reflecting their total work hours.

Five Years Without Significant Pay Increases

According to analysis by travel expert Gary Leff at View From The Wing, United Airlines flight attendants have not experienced a notable salary increase in the past five years. This stagnation is attributed to the union’s consistent rejection of negotiated contracts. The AFA-CWA has maintained its position that flight attendants deserve payment for every hour spent working, not solely during flight.

A potential compromise known as “sit” pay has emerged in discussions. This would compensate flight attendants for time between flights, but the union has expressed significant reservations. Under the proposed arrangement, sit pay would be implemented alongside a preferential bidding system (PBS), which is already in use by major U.S. carriers like American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, as well as Alaska Airlines.

Union Members Demand Fair Compensation

Many flight attendants feel frustrated by the lack of progress and have voiced concerns not only regarding pay but also about working conditions, including the quality of hotels used during layovers. Recently, a substantial 71% of union members voted against the latest contract proposal, prompting the AFA-CWA to return to the negotiating table.

While United Airlines has indicated a willingness to explore ground pay, executives have clarified that this would not result in higher standard pay rates. The airline has suggested that if ground or sit pay were to be included, it could lead to a reduction in guaranteed hours from 78 to 75, which would phase out certain reserve overrides.

Industry practices typically dictate that flight attendants are compensated only when the aircraft is in motion, which has raised concerns about fairness and efficiency. Some airlines have begun to offer boarding pay or daily guarantees that cover some ground time, but these practices are not yet widespread.

The ongoing negotiations highlight a critical moment for United Airlines as it strives to balance operational efficiency with the demands of its flight crew. The outcome will depend on whether the union and its members are prepared to accept concessions that could resolve the current dispute while ensuring fair compensation for all hours worked.