United Airlines flight attendants are expressing frustrations over stagnant pay and taxing work conditions, with around a dozen picketing outside LaGuardia Airport demanding better pay and working conditions. The protest was part of a wider initiative by United’s flight attendants, with picketing at major hubs and bases. This protest was sparked by the recent disclosure of United CEO Scott Kirby’s pay of close to $19 million in 2023, while flight attendant wages have been stuck at a median salary of around $68,000. Flight attendants are asking for better work-life balance and have expressed concerns over being asked to work 18-hour shifts. United said they are continuing negotiations with the flight attendants’ union and are working towards an industry-leading agreement.
The protests highlight the ongoing tensions between airlines and flight attendants as talks have continued for years. United flight attendants have been in negotiations with the carrier for 29 months, marking a contentious flash point in contract negotiations. Flight attendants at American Airlines and Southwest Airlines have previously voted to authorize a strike, while Alaska Airlines flight attendants staged a similar protest in February. The issue of pay is a significant concern for flight attendants across the industry as wages have stayed stagnant for the past decade. Flight attendants at United have not received a raise since 2016, with wages below inflation by approximately 19%. Pilots across the industry have received hefty pay raises since the pandemic, with some airlines offering pilots as much as 50% raises. Airlines are expected to eventually reach agreements with flight attendants, with labor costs predicted to increase significantly in 2024.
The demands for better pay and working conditions by United flight attendants reflect broader issues within the industry. Flight attendants are only compensated for the time worked inside the plane, not for any work on the ground. This lack of compensation for boarding and ground work has been a point of contention for flight attendants, who have seen their wages remain stagnant while pilots have received significant pay raises. Despite ongoing negotiations with the flight attendants’ union, tensions remain high as flight attendants continue to pressure airlines for better working conditions. The protests at LaGuardia Airport were the fourth time United flight attendants have picketed, and they plan to continue putting pressure on the airline until their demands are met.
The ongoing negotiations between airlines and flight attendants highlight the struggles faced by workers in the airline industry. Flight attendants are pushing for better pay to address issues of affordability and fair compensation for their work. The lack of pay raises and concerns over working conditions have led to increased tensions between flight attendants and airlines, with flight attendants at various carriers taking action to express their frustrations. As labor costs are predicted to grow significantly in 2024, it remains to be seen if airlines will meet the demands of their flight attendants and address the issues raised during negotiations. Flight attendants like Lily Meyer continue to advocate for better pay and working conditions, emphasizing the importance of fair compensation for the essential work they do in ensuring the safety and comfort of passengers.
In conclusion, the protests by United flight attendants and ongoing negotiations with airlines reflect broader issues within the airline industry regarding pay and working conditions. Flight attendants are advocating for better pay and work-life balance, highlighting the challenges they face in their roles. The lack of pay raises and concerns over working conditions have led to increased tensions between flight attendants and airlines, with flight attendants at various carriers taking action to express their frustrations. As labor costs are expected to increase significantly in 2024, it is crucial for airlines to address the concerns of their flight attendants and reach agreements that address their demands. Flight attendants like Lily Meyer are continuing to put pressure on airlines to ensure fair compensation for their essential work.
