Southwest flight attendants have entered into a new four-year contract that will provide them with a significant 22.3% raise, making them some of the most highly paid flight attendants in the industry. The contract also includes $364 million in retroactive wages, with payment based on the amount of time flight attendants were flying during negotiations. This raise goes into effect on May 1 and also includes provisions for extra compensation for time spent on the ground, premium pay for extended shifts, holiday pay, and maternity and paternity leave with healthcare coverage for newborns.
The president of the Transport Workers Union, John Samuelsen, touted the contract as a significant victory for flight attendants and praised the effectiveness of the union in advocating for its members. In addition to the 22.3% pay increase, the contract also includes 3% raises in subsequent years and revisions to the reserve system to provide flight attendants with more rest. Adam Carlisle, Southwest’s vice president of labor relations, stated that the agreement not only rewards flight attendants but also strengthens the airline’s operations.
The Southwest flight attendants’ union was able to successfully negotiate a new contract after previously rejecting a deal in December. This new contract was approved by 81% of votes in favor, with 93% of eligible flight attendants participating in the decision. Negotiations over contracts have been ongoing at other major airlines like American Airlines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines, with flight attendants at these airlines facing similar issues with pay structure.
United flight attendants held pickets at major airports in April, while Alaska flight attendants conducted a protest in February, and American flight attendants voted to authorize a strike that was blocked by mediators. The major flashpoint in negotiations has been the lack of compensation for time spent on the ground, with flight attendants typically only paid for work inside the plane. The Southwest contract sets a precedent for other airlines to follow in terms of providing fair compensation and benefits for their flight attendants.
Overall, the new contract for Southwest flight attendants represents a significant victory for the union and its members. With a substantial pay increase, retroactive wages, and improved benefits such as maternity and paternity leave, this deal sets a high standard for the industry. The successful negotiation of this contract also demonstrates the effectiveness of the Transport Workers Union in advocating for the interests of flight attendants. Other airlines are likely to take note of this landmark agreement and may face pressure to improve their own contracts for flight attendants in the future.
