American Airlines Flight Attendant Union & Management Get Into T-Shirt Battle

American Airlines Flight Attendant Union & Management Get Into T-Shirt Battle

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Labor relations between American Airlines management and flight attendants aren’t good right now. Flight attendants are understandably seeking a new contract, and they’ve even voted to authorize a strike.

Flight attendants are expressing their displeasure with management and showing solidarity in a variety of ways, and one of those has caused the filing of an interesting grievance, as flagged by @xJonNYC. I first wrote about this yesterday, but the union has contacted me to clarify a point, which changes my perspective on this topic.

Flight attendants restricted from wearing certain union shirts

The Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) has filed a grievance over what it’s calling management’s misapplication and misinterpretation of the collective bargaining agreement.

According to the union, American’s Managing Director of Labor Relations has informed the APFA President that flight attendants are prohibited from wearing red APFA logo shirts on American Airlines flights when deadheading (so they’re being paid, but not working the flights), as well as during their training. Management argues that wearing these shirts violates the company’s policies.

Here’s what management writes in the note to flight attendants:

Section 16.E. of the JCBA prohibits wearing t-shirts and slogans when deadheading. Additionally, in Training, we’ve had a longstanding business casual dress code for training, and shirts with slogans are not in line with that policy.

And here’s Section 16.E., which is being referenced:

A deadheading Flight Attendant must be in uniform or wear the normal nonrevenue attire applicable to the class of service, except the Flight Attendant may not wear shorts, undershirts, or t-shirts with slogans.

Here’s what the union argues:

The JCBA does not define what a “slogan” is, however, according to Oxford Languages, a “slogan” is defined as “a short and striking or memorable phrase used in advertising.” Conversely, a “logo” is defined as “a symbol or other design adopted by an organization to identify its products, uniform, vehicles, etc.” The APFA logo is clearly a symbol, not a phrase, meaning a shirt displaying the APFA logo is not a “t-shirt with a slogan” as prohibited by Section 16.E of the JCBA.

The Company permits – and likely encourages – its employees to wear attire with the American Airlines logo on it while traveling and, in turn, presumably does not categorize such attire with its own logo as a “shirt with a slogan on it.” Succinctly put, in relation to the APFA logo shirts, the Company arbitrarily makes this distinction in an effort to prohibit Flight Attendants from proudly supporting and showing solidarity with their Union. It is unquestionably evident that the Company’s prohibition of Flight Attendants wearing an APFA logo shirt to/from and while attending training is solely intended to “chill” and/or suppress lawful union activity.

Is there another side to this story?

The disagreement here seems to come down to whether the union t-shirts contain a logo (which is fine) or a slogan (which isn’t fine). The union argues that the shirts just have a logo.

@xJonNYC had posted something that was shared with him, about how some of the t-shirts reportedly not only have the APFA logo, but also say “WE ARE READY” in all caps, and when you read it top to bottom, it spells “WAR.”

The APFA’s “WE ARE READY” campaign

I can totally understand how management could argue that this would be a slogan.

However, a union representative shares with me that no official union t-shirts actually have that branding, but rather it’s only available in a social media toolkit online. He has reiterated that the shirts are only printed with the union logo and name, similar to the red ones pictured below.

If that’s the case, then it’s absurd for management to try to come after the union in this way. A shirt simply having the name of the union and the standard logo absolutely doesn’t constitute a slogan. For that matter, it’s totally standard for employees to have union branding even on their uniforms.

Now, it’s of course possible that people are wearing non-official union shirts as well. But management isn’t specifically referencing that, but rather is going after all union t-shirts.

I think the even bigger question is why management thinks that this is a battle worth picking? I mean, flight attendants understandably want a new contract and morale is low, so what exactly is management trying to accomplish?

Bottom line

The latest battle between American Airlines management and flight attendants involves t-shirts. Specifically, some employees are wearing union t-shirts at training and while on flights (when not working them). The airline argues that this violates the company’s policy against shirts with slogans, while the union argues that this is a logo.

Given that union members are reportedly only wearing shirts with the union’s name and logo (and not any other phrases), I think the union is in the right here.

What’s your take on this situation?

Conversations (99)
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  1. Jacobjingleheimerschmidt Guest

    The flight attendants are treated very poorly. Best of luck to them.

  2. Neil Gibson Guest

    If the job and money paid is so unsatisfactory to all these Flight Attendants, I suggest they resign and find more satisfying work elsewhere. There are thousand on thousands of both Female and Males persons just waiting for a chance to join American.

  3. Grant Guest

    The no frills and no service, is not the Unions fault. That is a direct order by the airlines. It is about time they, and other Unions stand up. If it were not for the Unions, the private sector, would not be enjoying the few benefits that you have. Besides, I can now enjoy retirement with a union pension.

    1. Eskimo Guest

      I don't think the airline ordered them to be on power trips either.

      Diverting and kicking people off planes are not the airlines' fault.

    2. Mark F Guest

      I didn't realize that it's the union, rather than the airline, that pays the flight attendants' pensions.....

  4. Lis mel Guest

    Strike is coming. American just gave their CEO millions of bonus while they have not seen a raise in years. They basically work for free untill the door of the airplane is closed, they are required to be at work 2 hours before flights and they don't get paid a penny for that.

    Some are elective food stamps since they only work 80 hours a MONTH.

    While the airlines bank millions for their...

    Strike is coming. American just gave their CEO millions of bonus while they have not seen a raise in years. They basically work for free untill the door of the airplane is closed, they are required to be at work 2 hours before flights and they don't get paid a penny for that.

    Some are elective food stamps since they only work 80 hours a MONTH.

    While the airlines bank millions for their shareholders, zero product in service and very expensive tickets, their front staff is treated like crap.

    Southwest is about to strike, hopefully they follow thru with AA. Enough of corporate ripoff, they deserve better, they a essential workers hey were all requiered to work when there was lock down, transporting other frontline cargo organs and who.were required to fly.

    1. CHRIS Guest

      Yawn....
      Then get another job that pays more. Did your parents teach you ANY survival skills?

    2. Don Guest

      I believe that many who read your post would agree with you that FAs should receive an increase in pay that reflects not seeing a raise in years. I believe that many reading your post would agree that you should be paid while working on the plane before the doors close and if your employer requires you to be at work two hours before your shift, you should be compensated for your time.

      If...

      I believe that many who read your post would agree with you that FAs should receive an increase in pay that reflects not seeing a raise in years. I believe that many reading your post would agree that you should be paid while working on the plane before the doors close and if your employer requires you to be at work two hours before your shift, you should be compensated for your time.

      If you read the conversations in response to this article, you will find most who have flown on AA find it difficult to empathize based on their personal experiences with AA FAs. Unlike the CEO, the FAs have direct contact with the customer and that is an opportunity to convey your value by the impression you leave with your customer. The conversations posted with this article would indicate that the FAs have not earned their customers empathy. An opportunity missed.

    3. Sara Smith Guest

      Uh, no. FAs should have their pay cut in half, tops. And they should be fired for three customer complaints, no ifs ands or buts.

      They should know every flight they take they might be out of a job tomorrow. The people sitting in those seats paying their salaries all have the power to fire them.

      They should be on their very best behavior, and we should get live footage from the firings to prevent the hippos from acting up.

      I'm not even kidding.

    4. Goforride Guest

      Southwest is not about to strike. American is no about to strike. Nobody is about to strike.

      The negotiating process is not even close to where that might even come into the discussion, but moreover, under the Railway Labor Act, the governing legislation for airlines, unions cannot strike without the president esentially signing off on a strike and that isn't going to happen.

      That's why the unions, particularly the militant AFA, go through all this...

      Southwest is not about to strike. American is no about to strike. Nobody is about to strike.

      The negotiating process is not even close to where that might even come into the discussion, but moreover, under the Railway Labor Act, the governing legislation for airlines, unions cannot strike without the president esentially signing off on a strike and that isn't going to happen.

      That's why the unions, particularly the militant AFA, go through all this nonsense, which only serves to make life more difficult for the passenger service employees who bear the brunt of passenger disatisfaction.

    5. Eskimo Guest

      You know "elective food stamps since they only work 80 hours a MONTH" doesn't make me more sympathetic.

      Your union is asking $100 per hour while also sharing food stamps (tax payer's money) with people on $7.25 minimum wage

      Your hours are limited due to mandatory rest time for your and your passengers' safety. It's not management, it's the government.

      If you think shareholders are making money, what's stopping you from buying AA shares?

      You...

      You know "elective food stamps since they only work 80 hours a MONTH" doesn't make me more sympathetic.

      Your union is asking $100 per hour while also sharing food stamps (tax payer's money) with people on $7.25 minimum wage

      Your hours are limited due to mandatory rest time for your and your passengers' safety. It's not management, it's the government.

      If you think shareholders are making money, what's stopping you from buying AA shares?

      You want to strike, fine but do it in a way that is not taking your customers as hostages.

    6. Mark Guest

      Prediction: No Southwest or AA strike.

  5. Anonymous Guest

    I'm not a flight attendant but I work for AA. At one point I considered myself an AA Ambassador. I'm now embarrassed to publicly admit I work for AA. Executives preach that AA cares for people along life's journey, but it's a meaningless slogan that borders on insulting we do so poorly at living it. And management is worse at it with employees. I am not appreciated. I am not valued. I absolutely feel their...

    I'm not a flight attendant but I work for AA. At one point I considered myself an AA Ambassador. I'm now embarrassed to publicly admit I work for AA. Executives preach that AA cares for people along life's journey, but it's a meaningless slogan that borders on insulting we do so poorly at living it. And management is worse at it with employees. I am not appreciated. I am not valued. I absolutely feel their disdain. If passengers aren't treated well by employees it's because we are EXHAUSTED from fighting for the bare minimum levels of needed tools to do our jobs and for a survival wage. Most of the time we will treat you well despite these things but occasionally we reach our limits and run out of nice. If any of you think you can do our jobs better, AA is currently hiring flight attendants and for other positions right now, and you are welcome to apply. Most of you couldn't handle what we do. And yes, I'm working on an exit plan... These flight attendants have my support and my sympathy. As do our customers.

    1. Eskimo Guest

      "Most of the time we will treat you well despite these things but occasionally we reach our limits and run out of nice."
      You wouldn't expect an EXHAUSTED armed law enforcement officer start shooting every suspect right?

      Flight attendants are customer facing role, part of the job is to be nice.

    2. Anonymous Guest

      Armed law enforcement officers signed up to work with crazy people. Aviation workers could never have predicted the kind of behaviors that come from the traveling public these days, especially during and post pandemic. Of course most travelers, like most travel professionals, are great. But some travelers are unhinged and become downright abusive. Yet I don't know of a single incident where an airline worker has reacted with a gun so I'm not sure what...

      Armed law enforcement officers signed up to work with crazy people. Aviation workers could never have predicted the kind of behaviors that come from the traveling public these days, especially during and post pandemic. Of course most travelers, like most travel professionals, are great. But some travelers are unhinged and become downright abusive. Yet I don't know of a single incident where an airline worker has reacted with a gun so I'm not sure what your point is. My point is that we are humans and have limits with some of the nonsense and abuse we deal with.

    3. Eskimo Guest

      "Armed law enforcement officers signed up to work with crazy people."
      Really?

      As far as I understand, the traveling public when not travelling, are the SAME people law enforcement officers signed up to work with.

      Really?
      "Yet I don't know of a single incident where an airline worker has reacted with a gun so I'm not sure what your point is."

      Law enforcement have guns to shoot, Flight Attendants have unlimited and...

      "Armed law enforcement officers signed up to work with crazy people."
      Really?

      As far as I understand, the traveling public when not travelling, are the SAME people law enforcement officers signed up to work with.

      Really?
      "Yet I don't know of a single incident where an airline worker has reacted with a gun so I'm not sure what your point is."

      Law enforcement have guns to shoot, Flight Attendants have unlimited and undisputable power to divert planes and kick people off.

      You probably couldn't imagine the abuse law enforcement officers have to deal with too. But when they abuse their power they get disciplinary action. When was the last time you heard about a power trip crew got any disciplinary action.

    4. CHRIS Guest

      My sympathy is almost nonexistent for the people who do everything they can to deliver a miserable travel experience. Most of you shouldn't have a job that involves dealing with other people anyway.

  6. Grogg Member

    In the sentence "He has reiterated ..." the word "shirts" is misspelled.

  7. NedsKid Diamond

    Let's make our own shirts with the Star Trek logo like them (am I the only one that thinks the APFA logo looks like that?).

    Attend to passengers
    Please
    Flight
    Attendants

    1. BenjaminGuttery Diamond

      Agreed on both fronts! Looks like Star Trek AND the FA's need to do some ATTENDING for a change.

  8. Galoot Diamond

    If airlines had less seats , and not try to milk more profit out of uncomfortable increase in seat capacity , then everything would be better for everyone , passengers as well as FAs . Bring back the 747 with half the seats . Yeah .

  9. henare Diamond

    Of all the dumb things out there, this is kinda dumb.

    1. Galoot Diamond

      Agree . Kinda ? More like Very Dumb .

  10. Mitch Guest

    This logo that’s posted in the original post isn’t even what’s on the tshirts supplied by the union. It’s literally a logo of apfa, the union, on the front and the back says “association of professional flight attendants”. Tshirts have nothing related to the “war” graphic in the OP post.

  11. Kelley Guest

    In the case of deadheading, if they are being paid, they should wear what the company requests. "If they're being paid" being the key. I think Management knows what's going on and wearing a shirt won't make the least bit of difference. That said, it's silly that FAs aren't paid during boarding.

    1. Sara Smith Guest

      They *ARE* being paid during boarding. A certain flight simply gives them x amount of money based on how long the flight is.

      Example: SFO-JFK is blocked at 6.5 hours. The FAs are expecting upwards of 100 dollars per blocked hour in their demands.

      6.5x100 = the pay for this flight is 650 dollars (or a bit less). Then add free flights, per diems etc. and remember the fact they barely work a 25 hour week ...

      ... and they barely work while on the clock.

    2. John Guest

      And the pilots are being paid that per hour. SCAB. Every employee deserves the same percentage increase especially while Isom brags about record profits and gets a 3 million dollar bonus while driving AA’s reputation into the ground.

    3. BenjaminGuttery Diamond

      EXACTLY Sara. Flight Attendants and their greedy and incompetent Unions always want to mince words and say that they aren't paid for boarding, but as You laid out, they are DEFINITELY more than compensated for their work. This whole thing is ridiculous. They are waiters with safety training. Nothing more. They are NOT like Pilots and need to stop being spoken about that they are irreplaceable. Can't wait they are replaced by Robot AI that...

      EXACTLY Sara. Flight Attendants and their greedy and incompetent Unions always want to mince words and say that they aren't paid for boarding, but as You laid out, they are DEFINITELY more than compensated for their work. This whole thing is ridiculous. They are waiters with safety training. Nothing more. They are NOT like Pilots and need to stop being spoken about that they are irreplaceable. Can't wait they are replaced by Robot AI that actually serves pre-departure beverages, picks up trash, does frequent aisle checks, and isn't late for boarding. These FA's really need to check themselves. They haven't endeared themselves to the flying public and ESPECIALLY to frequent flyers for YEARS now. If I was sitting next to an FA wearing this "WAR" slogan shirt I would tell them what I really think their "attending" has been worth since their last contract.

    4. Grant Guest

      Sir you have to check your self for your own reality. A waiter does more than you ever think you do in a days work, and besides a scum bag like you, would never have the intelligence to be either a waiter or a flight attendant. You would never pass a basic first aid course.

    5. Guest Guest

      Awww, you sound like you probably applied for the job but didn’t get it

    6. Guest Guest

      @Sara Smith
      Stop lying!

  12. Ehud Gavron Guest

    > Is this a slogan or a logo?

    That really is begging the question (meaning "it assumes an unasked question is true and ignores it"): Why should AA get to have such a mixed policy? If they allow the AA logo, would they try to prevent sports logos like Nike, Adidas, etc. or car logos and if so is that resonable?

    Second, on the slogan, I can see that again we're just allowing AA to...

    > Is this a slogan or a logo?

    That really is begging the question (meaning "it assumes an unasked question is true and ignores it"): Why should AA get to have such a mixed policy? If they allow the AA logo, would they try to prevent sports logos like Nike, Adidas, etc. or car logos and if so is that resonable?

    Second, on the slogan, I can see that again we're just allowing AA to dictate what slogans are allowed. However, here we have THEIR OWN EMPLOYEES showing support for the ORGANIZATION that meets with AA every 1-3 years in order to WORK TOGETHER to find a common ground so AA continues to make billions of dollars and AA employees continue to feed their families.

    Just as you CAN shout "fire" in a crowded theater, and SHOULD do so when there's a reason for it (like a fire), so long as you're not inciting violence your speech is free (mostly). So "I support my union and my union supports me" would be a positive message. "We're ready for WAR" is not. "I am against ethnic cleansing is a positive message." "I stand with Ukraine against those killer nazi Russians" is not.

    When it comes to off-duty employees (deadheading) AA should take a chill pill and realize that out-of-uniform means OUT-OF-UNIFORM.

    To really pound that thought home, if 153 people are allowed to wear saggy booby tank tops or manspread hairy shorts&sandaled legs, an FA should be allowed to show support for his/her union.

    1. Eskimo Guest

      You should start your own company OUT-OF-UNIFORM t-shirt line.
      Freedom
      Union
      Cooperative
      Klan

      Then tell your boss to take a chill pill.

    2. Nicole Guest

      “We are ready” is a slogan because it’s words. Maybe if they settled the contract we would stop wearing the shirts.

    3. Eskimo Guest

      "Freedom Union Cooperative Klan" is a slogan because it’s words.
      "We Have Our Ready Expression" is a slogan because it’s words.
      "All Super Special Hardworking Organized Local Employees" is a slogan because it’s words.
      "Collectively Upset Never Thoughtful" is a slogan because it’s words.

      Acrostic play doesn't make it an acceptable slogan.
      Maybe if the contracts are realistic then they could settle it.

  13. Flyer1 Guest

    Most of these comments are a riot. I’ve been a flight attendant for over 40 years. I’ve always loved my job and have been fascinated with it. I didn’t realize so many other people are also fascinated with it. Not sure why because I’m certainly not very interested in what other professions do. I just happen to have a very unique one and so it brings out all the jealousy. Oh well. Hopefully everyone having a great day!

    1. Sara Smith Guest

      We're not jealous of you, waitress. And just so you know ... we know how you got that cold sore.

    2. Flight Attendant Guest

      Someone’s projecting lmao

    3. CM Guest

      Wow. You’re a real winner. I’m sure you’ll be begging that “waitress” to save your ass in an emergency.

    4. Flyer1 Guest

      Sure you are Sara. Every comment you write is overflowing with it. You, Loretta and a few others must be exhausted all day long, every day, with all the terrible hatred you carry around. Life is too short. Surround yourself with joyful people and make sure whatever profession you choose brings you happiness. The years fly by too quickly.

    5. Ehud Gavron Guest

      Sara, thank you for showing everyone that rude ungreatful downers have a right to free speech as well. I'll go ahead and take that to mean you support FAs' rights to display their support of the union.

      For which airline do you work, and in what capacity. I'd like to ensure I'm not schedulilng myself to receive your warm welcoming acid.

    6. Sara Smith Guest

      To everyone reading this: I am pretty sure they shared this thread in one of of their many closed Facebook groups.

      If there's one thing the lazy waitress hate it's when the people who pay their exorbitant salary demand something in return.

      Get off your sizable behinds and start serving some coffee, hippos. Then you may ask for (even more) money.

    7. DJE Guest

      Wow Sara! You seem to be a very angry person. You should learn to use the delete key and avoid the post key.

    8. John Guest

      Sara,

      I’m not sure who you are but all your comments are rude and offensive.

      I’m sure if I ever met you in real life I would only confirm what a nasty human being you are.

      FAs have a hard job and dealing with passengers like you only makes it harder.

      But I thank you, now I know to immediately ignore your comments going forward.

    9. BenjaminGuttery Diamond

      I'm 100% with Sara on this one. If the FA's in this comment section and on similar posts on other blogs took the time to read flyers concerns instead of playing candy crush: they might understand why they get NO SYMPATHY from frequent flyers. Try endearing yourselves to us, maybe we (the flying public) could actually be an ALLY in this labor agreement. If You look at many of the major labor strikes in the...

      I'm 100% with Sara on this one. If the FA's in this comment section and on similar posts on other blogs took the time to read flyers concerns instead of playing candy crush: they might understand why they get NO SYMPATHY from frequent flyers. Try endearing yourselves to us, maybe we (the flying public) could actually be an ALLY in this labor agreement. If You look at many of the major labor strikes in the past year (UPS, Pilots, Kaiser Healthcare, UAW Autos, etc) the Public was generally in support of the workers (in the comments and according to Polls). Unfortunately, MANY FA's have taken out their frustrations with their employers on passenger's over the last couple years. Not to mention the insane power trip many of them have been on since 2019. It's not just 1 or 2 "bad apples" either. For those of us that fly 30+ segments a year, from multiple markets, short & along haul, we've seen the way that many FA's ignore their duties, are short with passenger's, get all worked up over asking for something or better yet pressing a button, stay hidden for hours, and generally aren't as attentive as other FA's around the world that make 90% LESS THAN they do. I'm not anti-FA or even anti them getting some improvements in their contract. But also: they aren't infallible "Saints", Healthcare workers, trained and experienced Pilots, delivery/construction workers, and I and others will continue to point out FACTS and note their continued drop in quality of service. Is there any room for agreement here???

    10. Guest Guest

      Awww, you poor thing. Did you apply and didn’t get the job? Awww!

    11. Sara Smith Guest

      No, I pay your salary, lard cake. Don't you have some herpes to get?

  14. Jackson Guest

    AA flight attendents look old, sad, and tired. I regularly see them sitting on arm rests or on their phone. They are sloppy, lazy, and good for nothing. Fire them all. Its time for fresh faces that want to work.

    1. Pete Guest

      Management is responsible for people like this remaining employed. They need to be performance managed, and if they're not up to scratch, pushed out. Airlines presumably still get dozens of applications for each vacant FA post, so it's not like they'll be difficult to replace.

    2. BenjaminGuttery Diamond

      Pete, You mean the Union Management....right?

  15. A T W Guest

    Or you could just give the FAs the much needed pay raise they need. If there is 3-4 million for just one manager, surely asking enough to make your home owner’s insurance payment is not too much to ask.

  16. Donna Diamond

    So much hate and resentment in these comments. I’m in solidarity with AA Flight Attendants, they deserve a raise just like the rest of us. If you hate unions, make sure to never join one. If you find AA Flight Attendants horrible, make sure to fly another carrier. In hundreds of flights over the past decade, I’ve never had a problem with a single AA flight attendant.

    1. Sara Smith Guest

      They deserve jack sh*t, Donna Martin. You're so full of it and blatantly lying to secure undeserved raises for yourself.

      If you don't like being a sky waitress, do something else. Now go fetch me a drink, you're the help.

    2. Donna Diamond

      Sara - I’m not now, nor never have I been, a flight attendant or held any job in the airline industry. I am a wine broker and I fly with American Airlines. And if when I board my flight to Rome on Tuesday and an American Airlines Flight Attendant were to give me a Tee Shirt, I’d wear it.

    3. Mark Guest

      Perhaps its time Sara to move on. Swearing at people on this site is so out of line. There's room for every opinion, but not for people who do nothing but insult others.

    4. Onemiler Guest

      I just want to know where I can get a shirt.

    5. Lee Guest

      Agree with you Mark. Her disdain for others has surpassed free speech.

    6. Airline employee not a flight attendant Guest

      Please don't ever fly again. If you can't respect the people who work in aviation and care for passengers you don't deserve to travel by air. Take the bus or drive yourself.

  17. Eskimo Guest

    Flight attendants restricted from wearing certain union shirts?

    Karma. Taste your own medicine.
    How does it feel when someone else is on a power trip and kick you off flights for inappropriate attire.

    All those people FA personally judge that their attire doesn't fly sends their regard.

  18. Sara Smith Guest

    Everyone except AA flight attendants want them fired, not given a raise.

    Flight attendants need a serious attitude adjustment. AA should counter by hiring a bunch of new FAs. Training takes two seconds. Literally doing nothing is better than what they're doing today.

    Fire them!

    1. Pete Guest

      The length of the training is not the point. The point is that if they are recruiting for 100 vacancies they'll get thousands of applications from people who are motivated to come on board and do the job.

    2. BenjaminGuttery Diamond

      6 Weeks is the equivalent of 2 seconds. They want lime a 50% raise and all this crazy stuff. They aren't Pilots or Nurses or better yet someone that does HARD LABOR out in the elements like a Construction Worker or USPS Delivery person. Heck, I would vote for and pay more for the Post Office workers to get WAAYYY more than any FA I've met recently. They get alot of perks that they aren't valuing as well.

  19. Galoot Diamond

    The best T-shirt on a female is a wet T-shirt by the pool . And they know it .

  20. George Romey Guest

    I thought they were required to be in uniform when dead heading. At any rate there should be some minimum dress standard whenever they fly including passes. I've seen crew look as bad as other passengers with that tag around their neck.

    1. Sara Smith Guest

      We're one DEI speech away from muumuus being the FA uniform. They're so sloppy and embarrassing to look at.

    2. Pete Guest

      They're bad enough when they're one duty! You can always rely on at least one FA having big dangly earrings, a non-uniform cardigan, hair like a bird's nest, running shoes, & perhaps even chewing on gum for the whole flight.

      Try that at Singapore Airlines or JAL and see what happens.

      Most are still turned-out properly, but sometimes they may just as well have turned-up in track pants & a PJ shirt and be done with it.

  21. AGrumpyOldMan_GA Diamond

    The graphic you showed is a slogan. Setting that and my general dislike of unions aside, I simply don’t get this antagonistic, us and them mindset, of unions and their employer. If things are so bad that you feel that you need to go to “war” with your employer, quit. Find a new job. I’ve never had the perspective that I am in charge at work. I am the employee and they are the employer....

    The graphic you showed is a slogan. Setting that and my general dislike of unions aside, I simply don’t get this antagonistic, us and them mindset, of unions and their employer. If things are so bad that you feel that you need to go to “war” with your employer, quit. Find a new job. I’ve never had the perspective that I am in charge at work. I am the employee and they are the employer. They set the rules, not me. If I don’t like them, as has been the case before, I left. Period.

    1. Sean S. Guest

      Healthcare worker and union officer here. In my career I have seen multiple healthcare system CEO's, department managers, and direct supervisors, as well as multiple Labor Relations directors and quite literally dozens of HR liaisons. Some more collaborative, some more hostile, but all of them relatively short lived. I like my job, the patients I serve, and the community I live in. Why should I have to up-end my whole life because some MBA new...

      Healthcare worker and union officer here. In my career I have seen multiple healthcare system CEO's, department managers, and direct supervisors, as well as multiple Labor Relations directors and quite literally dozens of HR liaisons. Some more collaborative, some more hostile, but all of them relatively short lived. I like my job, the patients I serve, and the community I live in. Why should I have to up-end my whole life because some MBA new grad who is going to be around for two years at best decides they are going to be a jerk? Especially considering my seniority, pick of schedule, and pension? No, if it is between me and some random manager, it isn't me that's going to be moving on.

    2. Sara Smith Guest

      Thanks for telling us of literally every single person you've talked to in your worklife. It was riveting!

    3. Sean S. Guest

      I feel like you can always rely either on Tim Dunn to clog up the comments with the same referenced DOT reports or Sara Smith with vitriol.

    4. Sara Smith Guest

      I'm sorry, Sean, are we taking space away from your insanely long and boring rants?

      I bet you look like Chris Christie. You do, don't you?

    5. Ehud Gavron Guest

      Sara, once you graduate high school and enter the job market, you'll find that insulting people you've never met by suggesting they "look" some way you might find offensive is not a gainful long-term strategy.

      I'm pretty sure bringing up Chris Christie (or his looks) is in no way related to earning rewards in life OMAAT. But hey, it's *still* a free country where you can spit acid out your keyboard.

      Have you tried a forum where people appreciate you or your "wit"?

    6. Sara Smith Guest

      Oh I'm sorry, I didn't know this was the El Al forum.

    7. Troll Guest

      Glad that a billionaire decided to grace this article with his presence. Wait, you're not a billionaire and are anti union? I feel bad for you son.

  22. Mark Guest

    The stylised A with APFA written in it is a logo, the rest is a slogan.

  23. Mantis Guest

    AA flight attendants are why AA will always be the worst mainline carrier, and won't even be able to take advantage of Delta's recent missteps. Way to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, AA! Corporate needs to call their bluff, lock out the union, and hire all new FAs. Short term pain but long term gain.

    1. AC Guest

      Maybe you take a look at the no lockout clause in NMB contracts like the ones at AA before spewing your garbage opinion.

    2. Sean S. Guest

      The NMB does not allow for lock outs unless a mediator has cleared it, and only after a cooling off period and further attempts to rectify the situation. Further, in a lock out employers cannot hire permanent replacements, meaning they would simply have to restore the previous employees back to their positions once a contract is agreed to and the strike is over, negating the "punishment" of a lock out.

    3. Petrovich Guest

      They can't find any new FA candidates.

    4. Sara Smith Guest

      Agree. AA flight attendants have zero public sympathy. Why? Because they're horrible people mostly.

  24. NedsKid Diamond

    Seeing the "logo" I agree it is intended as a slogan, which APFA is trying to make resemble a logo to have this exact battle.

    But really.... what are the flight attendants trying to accomplish wearing these flying around in passenger seats? Is it like a conversation starter? Ask me about my union and problems with this company? Spur conversation to tell the folks sitting next to them that that F/A who hasn't answered...

    Seeing the "logo" I agree it is intended as a slogan, which APFA is trying to make resemble a logo to have this exact battle.

    But really.... what are the flight attendants trying to accomplish wearing these flying around in passenger seats? Is it like a conversation starter? Ask me about my union and problems with this company? Spur conversation to tell the folks sitting next to them that that F/A who hasn't answered the call bell in 30 minutes or been seen period for 2 hours needs a 39% raise? If they are complaining about the company while deadheading, can they be punished if I write a complaint?

  25. Don Guest

    My wife and I love to travel. Our preference for domestic or Caribbean flights are Delta, United, Jet Blue, then AA. AA is our "only if we have to" airline due to the "professionalism" of the FAs. The FAs are the main point of contact between the customer and the airline, and AA FAs are the reason they are last on our list.

    An investment of dollars is required for very good IFE, comfortable...

    My wife and I love to travel. Our preference for domestic or Caribbean flights are Delta, United, Jet Blue, then AA. AA is our "only if we have to" airline due to the "professionalism" of the FAs. The FAs are the main point of contact between the customer and the airline, and AA FAs are the reason they are last on our list.

    An investment of dollars is required for very good IFE, comfortable seats, good food, etc...... but very good customer service is a matter of pride in one's self as an individual, and as a culture within an organization.

    The flight attendants of AA, as part of their training, should fly in economy on Emirates, Qatar, or Singapore Airlines. I think they would find the service in economy to be better than the service they provide in business or first class on their airlines.

  26. BenjaminGuttery Diamond

    As a longtime AA loyalist and a current EXP, I agree with AA on this one. Not only is it a slogan, it's a pretty aggressive one as well. Sometimes I wonder if the FA's realize that they "could" get the passengers on their side if they did better. I mean, pre-departure drinks, friendly and proactive attitude and service, checking on us during flight (as opposed to gossiping and playing games), etc. Unfortunately, I don't...

    As a longtime AA loyalist and a current EXP, I agree with AA on this one. Not only is it a slogan, it's a pretty aggressive one as well. Sometimes I wonder if the FA's realize that they "could" get the passengers on their side if they did better. I mean, pre-departure drinks, friendly and proactive attitude and service, checking on us during flight (as opposed to gossiping and playing games), etc. Unfortunately, I don't see/hear/feel a "groundswell" of support for a raise and better conditions for them like I have/did with the UPS workers, Healthcare workers, etc. We could be a strong ally and bargaining chip with the FA union. But instead, we're frustrated and feel short changed as frequent flyers BY THEM. And all that fails to mention the 3 year "power trip" many FA's have still yet to come down from. We get it, Y'all were forced to enforce and difficult mandate, Y'all had to work during the pandemic (we did too....), Y'all had to deal with some extra crazy people, BUT Y'all also took it too far and forgot how to do Your jobs. Flight Attendants are literally there to ATTEND to our needs AND safety AND comfort. And there are no "flights" for them to work if we decide to take a road trip, train, use ZOOM, or fly another carrier.

  27. Burn158 Guest

    One super important point, regardless of this specific debate. The contract prohibiting slogans references deadheading and training. These are both times when flight attendants are working and being paid (just not serving passengers). On personal flights they can wear this without argument. I get what you mean but in this case they 100% are working.

    1. BenjaminGuttery Diamond

      Yup! They are definitely still working amd being paid, not on "free time".

  28. BW Guest

    I’m currently on a BOS-LAX A321T in F. The flight attendants are non-existent, on their most premium domestic product. No refills, no service. American unionized “service” at its finest. My ticket was nearly $3k one way, I had hoped for more than this.

    1. Jbz Guest

      They cut staffing to one FA in first. Penny pinching Parker

    2. BenjaminGuttery Diamond

      And they wonder why we (passengers) are so indifferent to them and their "plight". Bet they just beat a new Candy Crush level though!

    3. Push the Button Guest

      Ring the call button until they come. That’s what it’s for, especially when theyre just blatantly being lazy.

      You could even kindly say, “is it not protocol to make passes through the cabin anymore to check in passengers?” With a smile of course, if they question why you used the button :)))

    4. 305 Guest

      Woah there, push the button! If they were to say that to the FA, there's a better chance the flight diverts or police meet them upon arrival than them getting the cup of water they wanted

    5. Brian Guest

      Flagship first retails for $3k, but few if any pay it. People use buy up offers, points and SWUs. If AA cant generate the revenue for first, they cant justify the cost of adding another FA.

    6. Lee Guest

      AA doesn’t normally operate a late night flight between BOS and LAX, nor a 321T. Can you provide the Flight number please?

  29. RetiredATLATC Diamond

    I spent 30+ years as a Union member as an FAA ATC at the busiest airport in the World.

    I find these "tactics" ... yawn.

    Either strike, or don't strike, but leave the customer out of it.

    1. Larry Guest

      They want to strike but can’t until 30 days after the government gives them permission, so don’t be so dismissive

    2. BenjaminGuttery Diamond

      Exactly! As a longtime AA passenger I'm not really "feeling" their plight. Do Your Job let the Union negotiate. All these games are annoying and don't endear You to customers. Especially when they aren't doing what's supposed to happen like pre-departure bevs, checking on us during flights, etc.

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RetiredATLATC Diamond

I spent 30+ years as a Union member as an FAA ATC at the busiest airport in the World. I find these "tactics" ... yawn. Either strike, or don't strike, but leave the customer out of it.

11
BW Guest

I’m currently on a BOS-LAX A321T in F. The flight attendants are non-existent, on their most premium domestic product. No refills, no service. American unionized “service” at its finest. My ticket was nearly $3k one way, I had hoped for more than this.

7
Mark Guest

The stylised A with APFA written in it is a logo, the rest is a slogan.

5
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