Alaska Airlines flight attendants, represented by the Association of Flight Attendants (AFA), have overwhelmingly voted in favor of a new three-year contract. The contract, which will benefit over 6,900 flight attendants, promises major improvements in wages, scheduling, flexibility, benefits, and more.
The agreement was approved by 95 percent of voting members, with more than 90 percent of eligible flight attendants participating in the vote. This deal is the eighth labor contract ratified by Alaska Air Group with its employee groups in the past three years. It forms part of the airline’s wider effort to improve working conditions, raise wages, and enhance the overall quality of life for its employees. Alaska Airlines also acknowledges the key role flight attendants play in delivering excellent service to passengers.
Alaska Airlines CEO Ben Minicucci expressed his gratitude for the flight attendants’ contributions to the company. “Our guests choose to fly Alaska because of our flight attendants’ exceptional service, safety, and welcoming attitude. I am pleased they will be working under a new contract that recognizes their importance,” he said. “We are focused on making Alaska Airlines a place for top talent to build their careers, and this contract reflects that commitment.”
AFA Alaska Master Executive Council (MEC) President Jeffrey Peterson also celebrated the contract, emphasizing the important role of flight attendants. “This agreement marks a significant achievement for Alaska Airlines flight attendants, highlighting their essential role in safety and operational success. It will improve their lives immediately and set a strong foundation for future negotiations, particularly as we move forward with the merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines.”
The new contract includes pay increases, a market rate adjustment, and new workplace protections. Among the key provisions is a duty day limit of 10 hours and 30 minutes, one of the shortest in the airline industry. The contract also includes improved scheduling and limits on insurance premium hikes. The new agreement will go into effect on March 2, 2025.
The previous contract, which had been amendable since December 2022, remained in effect until the ratification of this new deal. Unlike other industries, airline labor contracts do not expire but remain in effect until a new agreement is negotiated and approved.
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