American Airlines flight attendants voted to authorize union leaders to call for a strike in order to put pressure on management during negotiations over pay raises. Flight attendants have not received a pay raise since 2019. American’s pilots ratified a contract earlier this month that will raise average pay more than 40% over four years, but flight attendants are not expected to benefit from that deal. Here’s what we know so far about the potential strike.
Is American Airlines going on strike?
No. While flight attendants voted to authorize their union to strike, federal law makes it difficult for airline unions to conduct legal strikes. Federal mediators need to determine that further negotiations would be pointless, which rarely happens. The strike authorization vote is more of a signal to management that flight attendants mean business.
When might they strike?
It is not likely that a strike will happen any time soon. Airline workers and their employers must go through a lengthy series of steps before a strike could take place.
Why are flight attendants striking?
The vote to authorize a strike is designed to put pressure on American Airlines management during pay raise negotiations. Flight attendants have not received a pay raise since 2019.
What happens if my flight is canceled due to a strike?
If any airline cancels your flight for any reason, you’re entitled by law to a full refund of your ticket price, taxes, baggage fees, any extra charges and fees. Airlines must issue the refund within seven business days if you paid by credit card and within 20 days if you paid by cash or check.