Tens of thousands of flight attendants from various airlines staged pickets to protest at more than 30 airports across the country and abroad on Tuesday, February 13, 2024,
The protests were part of the “Worldwide Flight Attendant Day of Action”, organized by three major unions representing over two-thirds of flight attendants in the US.
The flight attendants demanded better pay, working conditions, and respect from their employers, who they accused of corporate greed and disregard for their safety and well-being. Many of them have not seen a pay raise in at least five years, despite the booming profits of the airline industry. They also complained about the long hours, short rest periods, and crowded planes that they have to endure on a daily basis.
The pickets were peaceful and did not disrupt the normal operations of the airports or the flights. However, they aimed to raise public awareness and support for their cause, as well as to pressure the airlines to negotiate fair contracts with them. The flight attendants also used social media to spread their message, using hashtags such as #PayUsOrCHAOS and #FlightAttendantsFightBack.
Some of the airlines involved in the pickets include American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Alaska Airlines, and Frontier Airlines. According to the unions, these airlines are either in the middle of contract negotiations or have recently rejected their proposals. The unions vowed to continue their fight until they achieve their goals and secure their future.
“We’re not just working to survive, we’re working to thrive. Who do you want saving your life? #ContractNow for Flight Attendants!” one of the picket signs read.
