United Airlines flight attendants ratified a new five-year contract that gives them a 31% pay raise along with quality-of-life improvements. These changes will take effect in August, marking the first pay raise for United flight attendants in nearly six years.
The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, representing almost 30,000 United flight attendants, said 82% voted in favor of the deal. In addition, nearly 90% of union members participated in the vote.
The initial contract terms were announced in March. The agreement included a 31% base pay increase, boarding pay compensation, and $741 million in retroactive pay.
According to Ken Diaz, president of the United chapter of the Association of Flight Attendants, “The contract will immediately change the lives of United Flight Attendants, especially our thousands of new hires who have been hired since the pandemic.”
United Flight Attendants’ New Contract as Benchmark
It took years for United and its flight attendants to reach an agreement. Both parties entered federal mediation in 2023. However, United’s flight attendants initially rejected earlier proposals as they sought stronger scheduling protections and better overall financial terms.
According to the union, mediator Michael Kelliher helped finalize the deal at the National Mediation Board.
The inclusion of boarding pay marks a major change in how flight attendants are getting paid. For years, flight attendants were only paid once the boarding door closed. Plus, the deal also included compensation for extended ground time between flights. This provision addresses prolonged “sit time” during delays.
A sharp rebound in travel demand prompted aviation workers to push for stronger contracts. Heavier workloads, staffing shortages, and rising living costs have increased pressure on airlines during labor negotiations.
This new contract highlights the competitive environment in the aviation industry as airlines face challenges in hiring and keeping aviation workers. Analysts view United flight attendants’ new contract as a benchmark for future negotiations across the airline industry. Other airlines may now face increased pressure to offer similar compensation packages.
