Labor Department Investigates United Airlines' Sick Leave Policies

The Labor Department is currently examining United Airlines' sick leave policies following reports of stricter measures aimed at curbing employee abuse of sick time. Jessica Looman, the department's wage and hour administrator, indicated that the Wage and Hour Division has received numerous inquiries from workers regarding potential changes in the airline's leave policies. The department plans to collaborate with both the airline and its employees to ensure compliance with the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), which provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave annually. United Airlines has acknowledged a rise in sick calls, particularly on weekends, despite the airline's assertion that most flight attendants are performing admirably. The airline's contract with the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA permits the requirement of a physician’s note in cases of suspected sick leave abuse. United maintains that this policy is specifically designed for instances of misuse and does not infringe upon employees' rights under the FMLA. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA has expressed concerns that United's actions may violate both the contract and legal obligations regarding sick leave rights. Union president Sara Nelson highlighted ongoing issues with the airline's practices related to the FMLA, particularly regarding auto designation and documentation. Tensions escalated when management issued a scheduling alert requiring flight attendants to submit absence certificates for sick leave on weekends, prompting further complaints to the Labor Department. As the investigation unfolds, individual flight attendants have also lodged complaints, and the union's legal team is actively engaging with the Labor Department to address these issues.