Contract Negotiations

Understanding the Negotiations Process

We are not currently in contract negotiations.
That is precisely why education begins now.

An informed membership makes stronger decisions when negotiations do begin.
Knowledge is preparation — not pressure.

This page outlines how the negotiations process works, how member input shapes priorities, and what happens at every stage — from preparation to final vote.

Step One: Education Comes First

Before negotiations begin, it is important to understand:

• The legal framework governing the process
• The timeline and procedural phases
• The tools available to both sides
• The limits that exist under federal labor law

Understanding the structure of negotiations allows Flight Attendants to make informed decisions later. Preparation strengthens strategy.

Step Two: Member Input Shapes Priorities

Contracts are not built in isolation. Negotiating priorities come directly from the membership.

Member input is gathered through:

• Surveys
• Base and council conversations
• Feedback shared with representatives
• Real-world experiences

This input identifies what matters most to Flight Attendants, including:

• Pay
• Scheduling
• Work rules
• Quality of life
• Job protections

Why Surveys Matter

Surveys are not symbolic.

They provide measurable data that:

• Identifies common concerns across the membership
• Establishes clear priorities
• Guides proposal development
• Strengthens credibility at the negotiating table

Clear, unified priorities give negotiators direction and leverage.
Engagement at this stage shapes everything that follows.

Step Three: Negotiations at the Table

Negotiations are not a single meeting or announcement.
They take place over multiple sessions and over time.

At the table:

• The Union presents proposals based on member priorities
• The Company responds with counterproposals
• Both sides discuss, revise, and clarify positions
• Progress develops in stages

Movement is rarely immediate or linear. Agreements are built through ongoing discussion and revision.

Why the Process Can Feel Slow

There may be periods with visible updates and periods that feel quiet.

Quiet does not mean inactivity.

Between sessions, work continues through:

• Proposal drafting and revision
• Financial and operational analysis
• Legal review
• Strategic planning

Negotiations require preparation on both sides. It is not a one-meeting process.

Transparency and Expectations

Not every detail can be shared in real time.
Updates will be provided as appropriate to keep members informed while maintaining effective strategy.

Step Four: Economic and Non-Economic Items

Not all contract improvements are direct pay — but all of them affect your job and are considered cost items.

Direct (Economic) Items

• Pay rates
• Per diem
• Trip and duty rigs
• Boarding pay

Indirect (Non-Economic) Items

• Scheduling rules
• Duty and rest protections
• Reserve rules
• Trip construction
• Quality-of-life provisions

Why Both Matter

Schedule improvements affect:

• How much you work
• How predictable your schedule is
• How sustainable the job is over time

Even when not immediately visible as pay, these provisions can impact staffing, hiring, and overall cost.

A strong contract balances fair compensation with reasonable work rules.

Step Five: Mediation, Cooling-Off Periods, and Self-Help

Some phases occur only if negotiations stall.

Mediation

A neutral mediator may be assigned to assist both sides in reaching agreement.

• Either side can request mediation
• The mediator facilitates discussion
• The mediator does not impose terms

Cooling-Off Period

This phase does not occur automatically.

It happens only if:

• A release is requested
• The case is advanced to the National Mediation Board
• Arbitration is offered and declined by at least one party

During this period:

• Negotiations often intensify
• Additional efforts are made to reach agreement

Self-Help

This is the final phase of the process.

It may include lawful job actions or other measures, but only after all required legal steps are completed.

At every stage, the goal remains the same: reaching an agreement.

Step Six: Tentative Agreement and Voting

Reaching a tentative agreement does not mean negotiations are finished.

What is a Tentative Agreement (TA)?

A TA is a proposed contract agreed to by negotiators from both sides.
It is not final.

What Happens Next

• The TA is presented to the membership
• Detailed information is shared
• Flight Attendants vote to approve or reject it

The Most Important Point

No contract becomes effective unless a majority of Flight Attendants vote to approve it.

The final decision always rests with the membership.

Step Seven: Engagement and Unity

Negotiations are not just about who sits at the table.
They are influenced by the strength, unity, and engagement of the membership.

What Engagement Looks Like

• Staying informed
• Participating in surveys and discussions
• Asking questions
• Supporting your representatives
• Wearing your AFA pin

Why It Matters

An informed and united membership strengthens the Union’s position:

• Before negotiations begin
• During negotiations
• When evaluating a tentative agreement

This contract will reflect the collective voice of Flight Attendants.

Representation and Authority

Elected representatives and the negotiating committee advocate on behalf of Flight Attendants.

Nothing moves forward without member direction.

Even after negotiations conclude, no agreement becomes effective without a vote of the membership.

Engagement Matters at Every Stage

An informed and engaged membership strengthens our position:

• When setting priorities
• During negotiations
• When evaluating a tentative agreement

Participation, unity, and understanding are critical components of a strong negotiating position.

Final Thought

The negotiations process is deliberate and structured.

Education and engagement ensure that when the time comes, Flight Attendants are prepared to make informed decisions.