The Flight attendants at Southwest Airlines have ratified a new contract that includes pay raises totaling over 33% over four years, showcasing the airline industry’s recovery post-pandemic. The Transport Workers Union announced on Wednesday that members of Local 556 voted in favor of the contract by a margin of 81% to 19%. This approval comes after the union rejected a lower offer last summer and flight attendants voted against a second proposal in December. With about 20,000 flight attendants at Southwest, they will receive raises of over 22% on May 1, followed by annual increases of 3% in the subsequent three years.
The union highlighted that this new contract sets a benchmark for other flight attendants in the industry, providing Southwest crews with the shortest on-duty day and highest pay. Additionally, the agreement includes compensation during disruptions like the Southwest meltdown in December 2022, paid maternity and parental leave, and ratification bonuses totaling $364 million for workers, according to the union. These benefits showcase the progress being made in terms of recognizing the hard work and dedication of airline employees as the industry continues to rebound from the impact of the pandemic.
Dallas-based Southwest Airlines, the country’s fourth-largest airline, mentioned that the new contract also introduces changes in scheduling that will enhance the airline’s operation. Similar pay raises have been approved for pilot unions at other major airlines like Delta, United, and American, with increases of over one-third over several years. Delta Airlines has recently announced that its flight attendants and nonunion workers will also receive 5% raises this week, further underscoring the trend of improving compensation and benefits for airline employees across the industry.
The ratification of this contract signifies a positive step forward for Southwest Airlines and its flight attendants, with significant pay raises and improved working conditions being key factors in the agreement. As the industry continues to recover from the challenges posed by the pandemic, airlines are recognizing the importance of valuing their employees and providing them with fair compensation and benefits. With other major airlines still in the process of negotiating contracts for their cabin crews, the gains achieved by Southwest flight attendants could set a precedent for industry-wide standards in terms of wages and working conditions for airline employees.
The pandemic has significantly impacted the airline industry, leading to widespread disruptions and financial challenges for airlines and their employees. The ratification of this new contract at Southwest Airlines reflects a positive development in the ongoing recovery process, as flight attendants are now set to benefit from substantial pay raises and improved benefits. With the support of the Transport Workers Union, Southwest flight attendants have secured a contract that not only recognizes their contribution to the airline’s operations but also sets a standard for the industry as a whole. As airlines continue to navigate the changing landscape of air travel, investing in their workforce and ensuring fair treatment for employees will be crucial in maintaining a strong and resilient industry moving forward.
