Vaccine mandates are becoming popular in the US. While some companies are requiring vaccinations, some have a softer approach. Alaska Airlines is one of those airlines that didn’t opt for a vaccine mandate. Instead, the airline is offering an incentive for its vaccinated employees. According to the company, employees who can show proof of vaccination by October 15 will get a $200 incentive.
On the other hand, unvaccinated Alaska employees will be subject to regular COVID19 testing. Also, Alaska ends its COVID paid time off on unvaccinated employees. On top of that, unvaccinated staff will need to attend a “vaccine education program”.
According to Alaska, 75% of its employees received complete doses of the COVID19 vaccine. That’s approximately 20,000 employees so far. Vaccinated employees exposed to a COVID19 positive individual will also not have to quarantine. And if there’s a breakthrough infection, the vaccinated employee will get paid as he or she takes time off.
Incentivizes vs. Vaccine Mandates
US airlines used different approaches when it comes to their vaccine policy. While Alaska offers a $200 incentive for vaccinated employees, United Airlines made COVID19 vaccination a requirement for employees by September 27. That’s applies to a total of 68,000 United employees. This policy barred religious and medical exemptions. As for Delta Air Lines, the company announced that unvaccinated employees will have to pay an additional $200 per month. This will cover the Delta employee’s medical insurance.
For those who are looking to join the airline industry’s workforce, airlines are starting to prefer vaccinated individuals. Alaska will also follow other airlines’ example by only hiring vaccinated individuals.
Death of Unvaccinated Employees
Three unvaccinated Alaska Airlines employees died since the end of July. This includes Capt. Eric Moss who passed away after five days feeling sick. These deaths prompted the airline to update its vaccine policy.
In a statement, Alaska said that “We believe having as many people as possible vaccinated is the best path for protection against COVID19, and we will continue to strongly encourage our employees to be vaccinated”.
