Special Disaster HotLine
Updates HERE
AFA
HOTLINE 01-27
(800) 654-3143
October
5, 2001
MEC Addresses Recent Management
Decisions
US Airways' recent
actions to totally disregard our contract with respect to terminating hundreds
of probationary flight attendants and furloughing thousands more over the
next three months was met with outrage by your union leaders.
In response to the company's
plans, I immediately convened a conference call of the Master Executive
Council last week in order to make recommendations on a course of action
AFA should take. My recommendations included promptly sending a letter
to management advising them that AFA was prepared to vigorously pursue
any and all means in order to protect all US Airways Flight Attendants.
I also recommended that we file an MEC grievance addressing the company
violation of our working agreement if they refuse to address our concerns.
The Local Executive Council
Presidents authorized me to enter into discussions/negotiations with the
company on Extended Leaves of Absence (ELOA's) and other measures to offset
the excess staffing situation when the company reduced the operation by
25%.
On Friday, September 29,
2001, AFA and the company met in an attempt to resolve this issue with
the hope of not only avoiding the announced furloughs but also taking action
to address the urgent situation of the terminated probationary flight attendants.
AFA was represented by our General Council, Stephani Brown, Clare Burt,
Manager of Collective Bargaining Department, David Guerriero, MEC Vice
President and me, Lynn Lenosky.
In addition to demanding
that the company rectify the terminations of our members and address the
furlough situation, we presented the company with a comprehensive side
letter for Extended Leaves of Absence.
Other items AFA 'put on the
table' in order to offset the excess staffing were:
-
Enhanced Early Retirement
package
-
Voluntary Separation Incentive
Program (VSIP)
-
Voluntary Severance package
-
Maternity/Paternity/Adoption
Leave for up to one year (permanently added to our current contract)
-
A formula for retiree passes
that adds a flight attendant's age plus years of service to equal 70.
We also presented the company with a few other enhancements.
AFA has not heard back from
the company on these proposals as of the airing of this Hotline.
However, the company did notify us that they were in the process of tailoring
a corporate wide voluntary furlough program for flight attendants with
the majority of the items being very similar to what is being offered to
other labor groups. Again, as of the airing of this Hotline I have not
received any written documents about the plan, but when I do, I will share
them with you as soon as they are made available to me.
Keep in mind that AFA has
not come to an agreement on either this voluntary furlough package or an
ELOA side letter. Having said that, it is important to remember that
the number of furloughed flight attendants will be offset by the number
of flight attendants taking madvantage of either of these.
In the mean time, the company
is continuing to send out furlough notices effective November 1, December
2, and January 1. The information provided so far is based on US
Airways Human Resource Data. The information I provide on our website
comes directly from the company. Should you find a discrepancy or need
more information, please contact your In-flight supervisor immediately.
It is the company s responsibility to keep its employees educated and informed.
Don t let them get away with keeping you in the dark. Remember, they
make the decisions; they have the information, the computers and the data.
Effects of Furloughs
Until AFA can resolve the
issue of furloughing our members in spite of the company s complete disregard
for Section 1.E.1.of
our current working agreement, the company will continue on it's path of
sending out furlough notices. Any flight attendant who has received
a furlough notice or anticipates receiving a furlough notice should review
Section 19 to understand and know your rights. Flight attendants concerned
about the possibility of being furloughed should contact their In-flight
supervisor. The company has the names and dates of all employees they anticipate
furloughing.
Many of you also have questions
about displacements. It is very difficult to predict how many or who will
be effected by displacements since it is unsure at this time how many flight
attendants will participate in either an ELOA or voluntary furlough.
Having said that, and absent any resolution with AFA, the company has indicated
that displacements could occur as soon as December 2nd.
Employee Contributions to
Medical Premiums
As part of their overall
plan to conserve cash and reduce costs, the company recently sought an
agreement from all labor groups to adjust the employee contribution to
medical premiums for the year 2002. AFA notified the company on Friday,
September 28th that we were not willing to make any changes to the flight
attendant s contributions for medical benefits.
Safety and Security Changes
Expect numerous changes designed
to improve safety and security aboard our aircraft and in our airports.
For example, US Airways is reinforcing cockpit doors, which should be completed
within 30 days. Also, your Company ID must be immediately re-validated
by Inflight Services before you are permitted to take your next trip. The
FAA will certainly issue more regulations shortly affecting our inflight
procedures and working environment. But much more is needed.
All of the necessary changes
in security must be made to protect the aircraft cabin from the kind of
attacks we witnessed on September 11. There is no single fix.
For example, our expertise
tells us that important changes needed for improving security in the aircraft
cabin are strict, industry-wide restrictions on carry-on bags. It's clear
to us that fewer and smaller bags going through the security screening
process would significantly reduce the likelihood that a weapon could be
brought onboard an aircraft.
It is also important that
flight attendants' training programs be updated and enhanced to recognize
today's threats, and that a process for certification be enacted to formalize
and reinforce our role as trained safety professionals.
These are but a few of the
safety and security changes AFA is advocating. To learn more about AFA
s efforts to improve the safety of our working environment the airline
cabin please visit: http://afanet.org.
MEC Office Communications
The MEC office is currently
staffed by the MEC Vice President and me along with several dedicated flight
attendants (who mostly volunteer their time) to provide you with as much
information as possible through the following mediums: the website, this
Hotline and the E-Line. All the information provided through these
channels is compiled, written, updated, and publicized through the efforts
of the following individuals; Chris Atwood, Chuck Cannaday, Dave Guerriero,
Richard Delgadillo, and Chris Dzadovsky. I want to publicly thank them
for helping me to keep you informed. With events and information
changing at a moments notice, keeping up is more than a 24/7 job. Any members
who would like to volunteer in the MEC office in PIT may contact the Command
Center at 412-262-3110 x 29.
For those of you who stay
informed through our website the new main page provides the most up to
the minute events as they occur. If you are interested in what your
individual local president is providing to you, please visit your domicile
s specific page.
If you have not already signed
up for the MEC E-line, please do so. Remember, if you receive your local
e-line message it may differ from that which I send through the MEC E-Line.
Contract Protections - Civil
Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF)
The US government's response
to the events of September 11th, could result in US Airways' participation
in performing military charters outside the United States in the very near
future. In an effort to know your rights and be prepared for a possible
CRAF operation, please refer to Side
Letter #27 in your contract. This letter provides specific information
on the Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF) Operation, which involves using civilian
aircraft and crews to transport troops.
Side
Letter #28 - Missing, Internment, Hostage, Prisoner of War, and
Hijacking deals with wartime-related events and outlines what is provided
in the way of death and dismemberment benefits and compensation should
you experience one of these events.
It is sometimes difficult
to
consider these issues and you may have questions concerning these important
provisions. If you have questions, please go to www.afausairways.org and
use the Questions
and Rumors Form. I have set up a Command Center to provide
answers to you as quickly as possible. Due to the high volume of
calls to your local office, this may provide the most efficient way of
addressing your concerns.
Pre-Canceled Trips or
Changes After Trip Publication
The MEC conducted a conference
call on the evening of October 2nd to discuss a consistent approach to
dealing with the system wide cancellation and/or rebuilding of trips as
a result of the reduced operation. If you have questions about what
you should do if your trip/s are either canceled in their entirety or changed
from it's originally published pairing, please contact your Local union
office. Keep in mind that all flight attendants have last trip of the month
pay protection, monthly minimum guarantee pay protection, and trip guarantee
in the ITD.
NOTICE OF MEC ELECTIONS
The MEC will hold elections
for the following positions at their next regularly scheduled meeting in
November in Pittsburgh:
MEC
OFFICERS:
President, Vice President,
Secretary/Treasurer
MEC
Committees:
| Legislative Affairs |
Grievance |
Health & Safety |
| International |
Reserve |
Employee Assistance |
| Insurance & Benefits |
Uniform |
Web Site Administrator |
| Newsletter Editor |
Hotel |
|
Manage Care Review Board (2
members)
F/A Scheduling Committee
(3 members)
LTD/Retirement Board (2
members, 1 alternate)
System Board of Adjustment
(1 permanent; 2 alternates)
Interested candidates should
call or write the US Airways MEC Office for an application. Applications,
willingness to serve statements and/or resumes must be received no later
than Monday, November 2, 2001 and sent to:
Association of Flight
Attendants
US Airways Master
Executive Council
One Thorn Run Center
1187 Thorn Run Road
Coraopolis, PA
15108
412-262-3110
The term of office for all
MEC positions is January 1, 2002 - December 31, 2004, except where otherwise
noted.
AFA Local Council Meetings
Council
40 PIT Meeting
When: Wednesday,
October 17, 2001
Time: 11:00
am 5:00 pm
Where: Association
of Flight Attendants
1009 Beaver Grade Road Suite 130
Moon Township, PA 15108
AGENDA: Question and Answer
Session on:
* BIDDING * SAP * TRIP CANCELLATION
***ANY AND ALL QUESTIONS
ARE WELCOME***
Council
89 CLT Meeting
When: Thursday, October 25,
2001
Times: 9:00 am - 12:00 pm
1:00 pm - 4:00 pm
6:00 pm - 9:00 pm
Where: Airport Auditorium
Charlotte Douglas International Airport
(above the food court)
Agenda: * AFA Board of Directors
advanced agenda items
* SAP * Security * Contact
clarification
Dateline NBC
Six AFA members from United
Airlines and US Airways recently taped a segment for Dateline NBC on security
and layoffs. The show is scheduled to air Friday, October 5 and should
not be missed.
In Solidarity,
Lynn Lenosky, MEC President
AFA
HOTLINE 01-26
(800) 654-3143
September
25, 2001
Furlough
Projections Announced
After
reviewing the staffing requirements based on the pilot bid covering December
through April, the company notified AFA late today that they intend to
release 2800 flight attendants by January 2002. This number includes
the probationary flight attendants. Unfortunately the number was higher
than first estimated. The chart below details how individual domiciles
will be affected by these numbers. (See below)
Notification
by telephone to the 478 probationary flight attendants will begin tomorrow.
Their positions will be eliminated beginning October 1st but it is expected
that they will not fly beyond September 28, 2001. Terminated flight attendants
should immediately file a claim with their individual state’s unemployment
office. For those who reside in a state other than the state in which
you are domiciled, you will need to file an out of state claim to the state
in which you are domicile.
In
addition to this immediate action the company plans on furloughing 300
flight attendants effective November 1st. Keep in mind that 251 Voluntary
Personal Leave Of Absence (VPLOA) have already been awarded for November.
The
next phase of reductions will be effective December 1st when the company
intends on furloughing an additional 1600 flight attendants. Finally,
the last phase will occur in January with 422 placed on furlough.
AFA
has notified the company that we believe these actions are in direct conflict
with our working agreement. We have continually urged the company
to work with us within the confines of our contract to find ways to address
the excess staffing created by the reduction in flying over the next seven
months. Should the company proceed with their plans, AFA fully intends
to take any and all necessary action to oppose this.
In
spite of AFA efforts if the company violates our agreement by moving forward
with their plans to reduce personnel, Section 19 of our working agreement
mandates it be done in inverse order of seniority. In the very near
future, please look for more detailed information from the MEC office on
flight attendant rights under Sections 18 and 19 of our contract.
Pay
Guarantees
The
impact of September 11, 2001 on US Airways operations has raised some questions
about pay guarantees in light of the cancellation of 20% of US Airways’
operation. The following is a list of pay protections provided in
our current working agreement:
-
Minimum
monthly guarantee for both block holders and reserves. See Section
3.B.
-
Last trip
or series of trips of the month. See Section 9.F.5.
-
Rescheduling.
See Section 9.G.
-
ITD Trip
Guarantee for block holders when scheduled to fly a trip off the A&I
list or block trip. See Section 12.F.17.
Staffing
Changes
In
an effort to cut cost US Airways management plans to implement drastic
cuts in on board service, amenities and staffing. For staffing in particular,
the company is looking at and may eliminate many of the ADD positions as
monthly bid block positions. Most recently this has occurred on the MD-80
and 737-3/400.
Unfortunately
AFA lost this battle in the early 1990s. Based on the arbitration
decision, the filling of the ADD positions is at the sole discretion of
the company based on “the needs of the service”. However, our working
Agreement (Section 3.F) does allow for expedited serving procedures in
the event of inadequate staffing. Please be sure to never compromise
safety and always follow all the FARs when it comes to implementing expedited
procedures.
For
understaffing pay, please refer to the staffing chart in Section 9 and
remember that understaffing pay is applicable on flights in which the parameters
are met but the SUPP position is not filled.
Flight
Attendant Reductions by Inverse Seniority and Base
|
Column:
|
A
|
B
|
C
|
D
|
E
|
F
|
|
Domicile
|
Current
|
Probation
|
Nov. 1
Reduction
|
Dec. 1
Reduction
|
Jan. 2
Reduction
|
Total
Reduction
|
|
BOS
|
416
|
25
|
14
|
59
|
11
|
109
|
|
BWI
|
1,006
|
26
|
96
|
163
|
53
|
338
|
|
CLT
|
2,728
|
119
|
27
|
411
|
75
|
632
|
|
CLW
|
287
|
0
|
2
|
23
|
3
|
28
|
|
LGA
|
156
|
13
|
25
|
32
|
2
|
72
|
|
DCA
|
529
|
37
|
23
|
74
|
31
|
165
|
|
PHL
|
2,066
|
216
|
58
|
334
|
112
|
720
|
|
PHW
|
933
|
10
|
7
|
73
|
25
|
115
|
|
PIT
|
2,841
|
32
|
48
|
421
|
100
|
601
|
|
PIW
|
317
|
0
|
0
|
10
|
10
|
20
|
|
Total
|
11,279
|
478
|
300
|
1,600
|
422
|
2,800
|
Key for
Columns at top:
A
= Flight Attendant Staffing as of September 25, 2001 (Does not include
October or November transfers)
B
= Probationary F/A's US Airways will terminate
C
= First round of reductions per domicile - November 2001
D
= Second round of reductions per domicile - December 2001
E
= Third wave of reductions per domicile - January 2002
F
= Total reduction in inverse seniority order (includes probationary F/A's)
New
target headcounts per base are not yet available because of reductions
in aircraft staffing. AFA will provide that information as soon as it becomes
available.
Any
type of LOA’s negotiated will offset these numbers.
AFA
HOTLINE 01-25
(800) 654-3143
September
21, 2001
Effects
of the Pilot Bid
On
late Wednesday afternoon, the company published the pilot bid for the period
of Dec. 2, 2001 through April 31, 2002. Following this announcement, the
Inflight Department reviewed the staffing requirements, and has indicated
to AFA that the loss of block hours created by the reduction in aircraft
will result in the elimination of approximately 2500 flight attendant positions
throughout the system. Although AFA disagrees with the company’s interpretations
of the “no furlough” and “exception” language in Section 1, the company
is proceeding with their plans to furlough flight attendants. AFA will
take any and all necessary action to oppose this.
Nevertheless,
if a reduction in personnel occurs, Section 19 of our working agreement
mandates it be done in inverse order of seniority. At this time, we only
have ESTIMATES as to how this reduction will affect individual bases.
This information is posted on the AFA website and each LEC office has been
provided with the raw numbers and preliminary information about the effects
on their base. We believe it is in our members’ best interest to work closely
with management on finding ways to reduce the number of affected flight
attendants by exploring such options as extended leaves of absence.
In
the very near future, please look for more detailed information from the
MEC office on flight attendant rights under Sections 18
and 19 of our current
working agreement
Possible
Terminations of Probationary Flight Attendants
On
September 21st, the Company informed AFA that it intended to terminate
all probationary Flight Attendants. The exact date termination notices
will be sent out is unknown, but all indications point to some time in
the very near future. AFA strongly objects to this position and has urged
the company to reconsider this draconian action. If the Company proceeds
with these terminations, AFA will review any and all legal options to address
this.
USAirways
Annual Stockholders Meeting
AFA
representation at the US Airways’ Annual stockholders meeting in DCA included
the two MEC officers, the union leaders from CLT, DCA, PIT, BWI and Piedmont
Airlines along with a union representative from PHL. We wanted to hear
first hand from US Airways’ Chairman Wolf on the state of the airline and
its prospects for the future. Wolf reiterated that US Airways would proceed
as a stand-alone airline and that a reduction in capacity would result
in the furloughing of 11,000 employees. He stated that he is focusing on
running a smaller airline in the future.
A statement
made by MEC President, Lynn Lenosky, included “we (flight attendants)
are safety professionals who put our lives on the line every time we put
our uniforms on”. She insisted that management take a methodical
and deliberate approach, and not look to “quick fixes”. Finally,
she asked that the senior officers “take the lead, demonstrate leadership
and share in the sacrifices you are asking of us”. A copy of the full text
of her statement will be available through the e-line and website.
Pay
Guarantees
The
impact of last week’s disaster on US Airways operations has brought about
many questions about pay guarantees. The following is a list of pay
protections provided for in our current working agreement:
Minimum
monthly guarantee for both block holders and reserves. See Section
3.B.
Last
trip or series of trips of the month. See Section 9.F.5.
Rescheduling.
See Section 9.G.
ITD
Trip Guarantee for block holders when scheduled to fly a trip off the A&I
list or block trip. See Section 12.F.17.
Piedmont
Airlines Flight Attendants Reach A Tentative Agreement
A
tentative agreement was reached in the evening hours of Thursday, September
20th, between the flight attendants represented by the Association of Flight
Attendants and Piedmont Airlines. We would like to thank those of
you who volunteered their efforts to support the Piedmont Flight Attendants
in their struggle to reach a fair agreement. Please check the Piedmont
website, e-line and hotline for details on the candlelight vigils scheduled
for this weekend.
Automatic
Sign In
Flight
attendants who receive monthly block awards via the voice response system
(VSR) are automatically signed in for all trips in that month. However,
for those of you who participate in SAP must either contact crew scheduling
or use the VRS to sign in for any trips awarded through SAP.
2002
Vacation Bids
The
company has agreed to extend the annual vacation bid closing date to
October 2, 2001 at 23:59.
Please
be advised that November Monthly Line Bid closing dates are NOT be extended
EAP
Support
AFA,
in conjunction with doctors who are trained in critical incidents, are
providing assistance to flight attendants and their families through discussion
and counseling. Interested flight attendants are encouraged to attend one
the following sessions:
Washington,
DC
Monday,
September 24, 2001
Time:
2:00pm – 5:00pm
Hampton
Inn – Alexandria, VA (near the Wilson Bridge)
703-329-1400
New
York City
Saturday,
September 22, 2001
Time:
12:00 – 1:45 pm and 2:00 – 3:45 pm
1710
Broadway 2nd Floor
New
York, NY 10019
(Between
54th and 55th Streets)
(Directions
- Take E or F train to 7th Ave
N
or R to 57th St. 1/9 train to 49th Street
A
or C to 59th St.)
Directions
to debriefing locations are available in crew rooms or
through
your local EAP representatives.
Please
know that you are not alone. Help is available you and/or your family
members through Magellan Behavioral Health at 1-800-872-4711.
AFA
HOTLINE 01-24
(800) 654-3143
September
17, 2001
Furlough
Information
At
this time, we have not been advised of exact numbers with regard to flight
attendant staffing. Specific staffing requirements are eventually
derived from the pilot bid. The pilot bid is pending and is estimated
within a couple of days.
We
will forward any new information as soon as possible.
2002
Vacation Bids
Due
to the circumstances of the past week, the company will be extending the
annual vacation bid closing date. Bids will now close: 23:59
on October 2, 2001
NOTE:
Please
be advised that November Monthly Line Bid closing dates will NOT
be extended.
EAP News
EAP, Critical Incident Response
Program De-Briefings Schedule for remainder of this week, September 19,
20, 21:
BOS -
Thursday, 3:00pm, Friday 12:00 noon, Saturday & Sunday TBA.
Conference Room by Chief
Pilot's Office, opposite crew room |
DCA - Friday, September
21st, 10:00a-12:00n, 2:00p-4:00p
Dulles Hilton, 13689 Park
Center Rd
Herndon VA
703-478-2900
All welcome, families too! |
CLT Thursday, TBA,
Friday, TBA
BWI Thursday, TBA,
Friday, TBA
PIT Thursday, TBA,
Friday, TBA
PHL Thursday, TBA,
Friday, TBA |
DCA - DeBriefing/Meeting
Monday, September 24, 2:00pm-5:00pm
Hampton Inn Alexandria (near
the Wilson Bridge)
5821 Richmond Highway
703-329-1400 |
For directions to debriefing
locations - go to your crew room, or call your local EAP representatives.
Starting Wednesday, September
19, 2001, an information and referral help line is open for flight attendants
through the National Mental Health Association 800-969-6642; available
from 9:00am – 5:00pm EST.
On behalf of the AFA EAP
committee, please know that you are not alone. If you or your family
members are experiencing difficulty, don t hesitate to contact Magellan
Behavioral Health at 1-800-872-4711. AFA EAP peer committee members
and mental health professionals will be in the crew rooms of all domiciles
to offer assistance.
Memorial Services
| Memorial
Service for Boston Crew Members
A joint memorial service
will be held for the crew members and employees of Boston Flights 175 and
11.
The service will be held
at Boston City Hall Plaza (just feet from the Government Center T stop)
on Wednesday, September 26, 2001 at 12 noon.
Crew members please wear
your full uniform. Family members and friends are encouraged to attend.
Winthrop, Mass. Memorial
Service
Town of Winthrop
Thursday, September 20,
2001 7:30pm
Winthrop Town Hall
1 Metcalf Square, across
form the Police Station
All airline employees welcome
617-846-1077 |
AFA
UAL Council 22 Miami Memorial
UAL
Local 22 is sponsoring a memorial service to honor flight attendants, flight
officers and their families.
Details:
Non-denominational
Friday,
September 21, 2001
11:00am
First
Presbyterian Church
401
SE 15th Avenue
Fort
Lauderdale, FL
954-462-6200
Flight
attendants and Flight Officers are asked to wear your uniform.
AFA
Local 22 information:
LECP:
Moe Kerrigan
Office:
305-876-8246
Fax:
305-876-8248
Email:
j3134@aol.com
|
| Washington Memorial Service
for Jennifer Lewis
Jennifer Lewis was the sister
of Barry Gore, Flight Attendant (BWI). Jennifer and her husband, Ken, perished
on AA #77 last Tuesday.
Hilton Mark Center
Friday, September 21, 10:30
a.m.
5000 Seminary Rd
Alexandria, VA
Please RSVP to AA Flt.
DCA Office 703-419-7870
Crewmembers are asked to
wear their uniforms. |
Memorial for Newark Flight
93
A service to honor our flying
partners and friends of United Flight 93
Tuesday, September 25, 11:00AM.
Newark Sheraton
The service will
include contributions from the Harlem Boys Choir and the New York Symphony.
Please wear your crew uniform. We will be joined by Police Officers
and Firefighters.
|
National
Mental Health Association
Starting
Wednesday, September 19, 2001, information and referral help line for flight
attendants through National Mental Health Association are available from
9:00am – 5:00pm EST. Please call 800-969-6642
Frequently
Asked Questions
FURLOUGH
Q:
Will I be furloughed?
A:
Company wide furloughs/layoffs were announced on Monday September 17, 2001.
As of this writing, the company has not determined what their staffing
needs are for flight attendants. Other employee groups have “no furlough”
clauses that only protect their members on the property on the date their
contract was signed. Our contract protects ALL flight attendants
on the system seniority list through the duration of our contract.
The contract lays out certain exceptions and it is AFA’s position that
the circumstances we are experiencing do not fall under these exceptions.
Refer to Section 1.E. of
your flight attendant agreement.
In
the event the company does not share AFA’s interpretation, expect furlough
notices to be sent from the company to flight attendants. AFA will
continue discussions with the company on reducing the flight attendant
workforce within the confines of our contract and take any necessary action.
Q:
If I have 20 years with the company and only 2 years as a flight attendant,
what seniority would the company use in the event of a furlough?
A:
Once you move to the position of flight attendant, the company would view
your employment as a two-year flight attendant. Should there be other
positions within the company of which you are qualified (check COB’s) you
may be able to seek another position to avoid furlough. Be cautious
taking another job within the company because in many cases you relinquish
your flight attendant seniority at some point.
Q:
What if the Company lays people off?
A:
Layoffs affect the entire airline. For flight attendant purposes, we use
“furlough” or “reduction in personnel” as referred to in our contract.
Please refer to Section 19, as this will be the main section governing
flight attendant reductions.
SECURITY
Q:
Is the aviation system safe?
A:
The Federal Government, which includes the FAA, is working to secure all
facets of the aviation system. The extra security measures will provide
a deterrent to many types of threats to the airline industry. We
all should remain alert for unusual circumstances but refrain from overreacting.
Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Norman Mineta has formed a
DOT Rapid Response Team on Aircraft Security. AFA International President,
Patricia Friend, and ALPA International President, Duane Woerth, are members
of the team.
Q:
Is security permitted to touch me?
A:
Airport security may use a wand. The wand device is not intended
to "touch" you but may occur inadvertently. If no wand is available,
security may conduct a "pat down" using the back of their hands only.
In general, security or law enforcement can search any person, including
crewmembers if a threat exists. As crewmembers, we understand this
issue better than most of the flying public. Cooperate fully with
any requests from security personnel.
Q:
What will happen if I bring scissors or a penknife to work?
A:
It is a breech of security and they will be confiscated. You should
remove all unauthorized objects from your crew luggage including nail clippers
and corkscrews. Refer to the new security directives from the company.
Q:
Should I secure my ID, passport, and uniform when I am on an overnight?
A:
Absolutely. Your uniform, passport, ID, and other essential items
could be used for other than what they are intended. Maintain vigilance
while on or off duty.
CREW
SCHEDULING
Q:
Am I entitled to “show no go” pay if I had a trip but the company did not
contact me and the airport was closed?
A:
If you feel that you have a valid claim, you should submit it. If
you are not sure of what is or is not a valid claim, call your supervisor
first and then call your AFA Local for assistance. Remember, filing
false information with the company could have serious consequences.
Q:
I have child care issues. If I accept a two-day trip, will I get
home in time?
A:
Your contract is in full force and you are to be returned home in any rescheduling
in a reasonable time of the original published arrival time. Review
Section
9.G. of your AFA contract. With issues such as childcare, elder care,
etc., it is advisable to have a back-up plan.
Q:
Is the bid sheet operating as usual?
A:
Yes. In some domiciles, they are short flight attendants due to the
irregular operations. You may have opportunities to maximize your
time if you make yourself available. Our contract is in full force when
processing the bid sheet.
Q:
How do I handle being ordered to fly if crew scheduling or any company
official issues a “direct work order?”
A:
Respectfully request a “personal day” and immediately notify your supervisor
and your LEC Union office. Be sure you know who issued the direct
work order and exactly what they said. Write it up! Include
name, date, and time. If the conversation involves a crew scheduler, these
telephone lines are recorded and if necessary tapes can be pulled.
Q:
What if crew scheduling asks me: “Are you refusing to fly?”
A:
Please respond: “No, I am not refusing to fly but …” and provide the reason
you are declining an assignment.
CONTRACT
Q:
Has the company asked for relief from our contract to deal with the turmoil
in our industry?
A:
Yes. The MEC’s seven voting members (your LEC Presidents) have directed
the MEC President not to enter into concessionary discussions that affect
our wages. However, the MEC is willing to discuss with the company,
solutions that are mutually beneficial for the immediate and long-term
survival of the airline.
Q:
I am on the LOD/O program, am I protected from any furlough since I speak
another language?
A:
No. In case of furlough, your system seniority will apply- not your LOD/O
status.
Q:
I am a Reserve. Will I still get my scheduled days off?
A:
At this time the AFA US Airways contract is in full force. All Reserve
flight attendants must receive 11 days off each month. Please refer to
Section 11 of the contract.
Q:
Can the Company move my days off?
A:
Yes. The Company may move your days off. However, inviolable days
are the exception. (Refer to Section
11.A. 1 – 4).
Q:
Can I be rescheduled?
A:
Yes. All flight attendant trips can be rescheduled. Review Section
9.G.1. – 7 of the contract.
Q:
Do I have to SAP?
A:
No. Using the SAP process is optional.
Q:
I heard the FAA has relaxed duty time limitations. How could this affect
me?
A:
Our contract governs all US Airways flight attendant duty time limitations.
Our contract remains in full force, duty time limitations are unchanged.
Q:
Do I follow my contract or does the company have leeway right now?
A:
The contract is in full force. Stay informed with of all the latest
information by calling the Flight Attendant Hotline at 1(800) 654-3143
or by logging on to www.afausairways.org You may also subscribe
to AFA’s eline to receive the latest via the Internet. The address is:
AFA-e-line-on@afausairways.org
If you have any further questions, please contact your LEC President.
At this time, it is imperative to carry your contract with you on every
trip. If you do not have a copy of the contract, obtain one from
your Inflight/Crew Services office.
Q:
Am I pay protected?
A:
The contract provides the following pay protections:
Last trip
of the month
Monthly
guarantee
Rescheduling
where applicable (see Section 9.G.1-6)
Show no
go
Employee
Assistance Information
Q:
Will I be able to collect worker’s compensation if I am unable to fly due
to recent events?
A:
As with any worker’s compensation claim, you must first fill out a company
incident/injury form. The company will decide whether to classify
your injury, mental or physical, as an occupational. Since the company
will be inundated with these types of requests, it is likely that they
will deny it as an occupational injury. If your claim is denied and
you wish to pursue it, you will have to hire a worker’s compensation attorney
to appeal your claim in court. Keep in mind that you will need substantial
medical documentation to present in order to sustain a claim.
Q:
Will I be able to apply for long term disability (LTD) if I am unable to
fly?
A:
You can complete a long-term disability application but it must be accompanied
by medical data to confirm that you are disabled. If you are applying
due to a mental condition, you must be actively treating with a medical
professional who has mapped out a prognosis to eventually return you to
work. In addition, keep in mind that there is a ninety-day waiting
period before disability payments are kicked in. If you are initially
denied disability, you may appeal the decision. All the instructions
are included in correspondence to you.
Q:
Will I be able to apply for a medical or personal leave of absence?
A:
You must request a medical leave of absence from your immediate supervisor.
You must be prepared to supply medical information and sign medical release
forms. You must be under the active care of a medical professional.
Both a medical and personal leave are the discretion of the company; there
is no obligation to grant them. The company will be flooded with
these types of request so make sure you have the medical documentation
to substantiate your need for a leave.
Q:
Can I just call in sick until I feel ready to fly?
A:
If you choose to call in sick, open a dialogue with your supervisor about
the nature of your sick calls. The more information
that is shared, the less likely it will turn into a disciplinary matter
in the future. If your supervisor is unable to differentiate between
your sick calls for a cold versus your mental condition, then you may be
quickly processed through the dependability program. If you feel
the need to call in sick continuously, call EAP for assistance.
Q:
I am a Reserve being assigned. What do I say if I am afraid to fly?
A:
Please advise the crew scheduler that you do not wish to fly and state
your reasons.
Q:
What happens if I think I am okay to fly but when I get to work, I have
an anxiety attack and cannot fly?
Q:
Will I have to call in sick or ask for a personal day?
A:
Contact your Local AFA office or Magellan @ 800-872-4711 and ask for EAP
assistance.
You
always have the right to call in sick if you ARE sick. If you ask
for a “personal day” and removal from a trip, you must call your supervisor
and discuss your request.
Help
is available. You are encouraged to stop by the crew lounge to discuss
recent events with specially trained AFA EAP volunteers as well as professional
counselors. These Critical Incident Response Members (CIRP) will do their
best to be in crew domiciles for the next few days. Your supervisors
can direct you to them or just look for signs posted in the crew check-in
areas. Also check previous AFA Hotlines on the AFA website.
Additional
help is also available by calling US Airways Employee Assistance Services,
Magellan at 1-800-872-4711. In Europe call 44-1865-397081(Collect)
and in the UK call 01865-397081 (Collect).
Q:
Can crew scheduling force me to work if I have significant anxiety about
flying?
A:
No. The company has stated that no one will be forced to work if
they have a real anxiety about flying.
DISCIPLINE
Q.
Will I be disciplined for not flying my obligation?
A:
Given the unusual circumstances that have affected flying for this month,
discipline issues will be handled on a case-by-case basis. If you
receive any form of discipline or are asked to explain why you have not
met your flying obligation this month, immediately contact your LEC office.
Q:
If the airline is not running at 100%, how do I commute to work?
A:
Co-ordinate with a supervisor or contact crew scheduling. Make every attempt
to find alternate means to commute to work. Document the issue in the event
you need Union intervention at a future time.
Q:
Can I be fired as a Reserve who is out-of-base while on duty?
A:
The company will review every situation on a case-by-case basis.
We all are working under unusual circumstances. If you are
out-of-base, try to get to your domicile as soon as possible. Document
the issue with your LEC office in the event you need Union representation
at a future time.
TRAVEL
Q:
Can my family travel on my passes?
A:
We have not been notified of any changes to our flying benefits. Except
to expect embargos on off-line travel,
Q:
Do we still have companion passes?
A:
We have not been notified of any changes to our companion pass benefit
travel policy.
Q:
Can I travel to European destinations?
A:
Although we have not been notified of changes to our benefits, an embargo
is still in place for companion passes to Europe. That is, you must travel
with your companion through November 1, 2001. As for restrictions
in and out of Europe, we are not aware of any destinations in the US Airways
system prohibiting travel. It is better to check with Reservations for
the latest information.
MISCELLANEOUS
Q:
If I am thinking about retiring, what should I do?
A:
All procedures remain in effect. You must submit a request in writing to
Human Resources, advising them of your intentions. Please include your
full name, social security number, and date anticipated to retire.
If you have a spouse, please include his/her name and date of birth.
The address is: Human Resources, Benefits Admin. 2345 Crystal Drive,
Arlington, VA 22227. You may also call Human Resources at 1-800-872-4780.
You should also request a Social Security Summary from your local SS office.
Or visit their website at: www.ssa.gov/mystatement
Q:
Is there a need for volunteers to assist in the LEC offices?
A:
During any time of crisis, volunteers are always needed. When offering
assistance, explain what skills you have and the time you have to offer.
Q:
What should I do if I missed training?
A:
Contact your supervisor or the corporate training department to reschedule
your training.
Q:
Is the company going to survive?
A:
We can all do our part to insure the company’s survival. However, there
are no guarantees in these unusual circumstances. Your Union will preserve
as many jobs as possible and work with the company to minimize the impact.
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