American Airlines flight attendants vote to authorize strike
American Airlines flight attendants expected to picket
Some American Airlines flight attendants will be on the picket lines Wednesday as their union prepares to announce the results of a strike vote. They're hoping to put pressure on the company for a new contract with better pay and working conditions.
FORT WORTH, Texas - American Airlines flight attendants have authorized a strike and are expected to picket at airports across the country Wednesday to show their frustration with the Fort Worth-based airline.
More than 26,000 union members will be demonstrating at a dozen flight attendant bases across the country, including DFW Airport.
Members of the Association of Professional Flight Attendants said they’ve been demanding a new contract for years with improvements to pay, staff onboarding, and quality of life.
In a recent vote, more than 99% of the members voted in favor of a strike, the union announced Wednesday morning.
But the vote authorizing a strike does not mean flight attendants will immediately walk off the job.
Members still must get permission from the National Mediation Board. The union asked that group to get involved in contract talks earlier this year.
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Earlier this month, American Airlines approved a new four-year contract for pilots. The flight attendants are now hoping the airline will turn its attention to them.
The flight attendants said the timing is intentional as they head into the Labor Day weekend with a message for their managers and hopes of better working conditions.