American Airlines union leader aims to humanize service and boost labor involvement

American Airlines flight attendants recently approved a new five-year contract, which includes raises of up to 20.5% starting in October, along with significant retroactive pay. This decision came after a summer of labor unrest, where other flight attendant groups rejected initial agreements. The Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) emphasized the importance of union solidarity, noting support from over 50 unions during their contract negotiations. APFA President Julie Hedrick aims to shift the union's focus from a single-business approach to a broader class struggle perspective, advocating for all workers' rights. Hedrick has fostered a collaborative relationship with Sara Nelson, president of the Association of Flight Attendants, to support unionization efforts among Delta flight attendants. The contract negotiations, which began in 2019, faced delays due to the pandemic, but were ultimately resolved with the help of key facilitators, including Julie Su from the Department of Labor. The APFA's commitment to transparency was highlighted through their website, which provided detailed updates and calculators for members to assess their potential earnings under the new contract. The successful approval of the contract reflects a significant mobilization of flight attendants, who have been actively engaged in the union's efforts to improve working conditions. The APFA's approach to negotiations and member involvement has set a precedent for future labor actions within the airline industry. As the union continues to advocate for its members, it also seeks to extend its support to other flight attendant groups facing similar challenges. Overall, the recent contract approval marks a pivotal moment for American Airlines flight attendants, showcasing their determination to enhance their working conditions and strengthen labor solidarity across the industry.