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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.

    Association of Flight Attendants, AFL-CIO
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