The Southwest Airlines flight attendants have recently ratified a new labor contract, which will be effective from May 1. This four-year deal includes significant raises of 22.3% immediately, along with $364 million in retroactive wages. These retroactive wages will be paid out based on the number of hours that the flight attendants flew during the more than five years of contract negotiations between the TWU Local 556 union and the airline. The contract was approved by union members with an overwhelming majority of 81% to 19%.
One of the key highlights of the new contract is the fact that Southwest flight attendants will now be the highest-paid in the industry. On average, they will be earning 14% more than Delta flight attendants. This significant wage increase is a positive development for Southwest flight attendants and sets a new standard within the industry. The TWU has stated that the impact of this new contract will resonate across the industry, potentially influencing negotiations with other airlines.
Apart from the salary increases, the new agreement also includes various quality-of-life enhancements for Southwest flight attendants. These include on-call scheduling improvements and company-paid maternity and parental leaves. These additional benefits are aimed at improving the overall work-life balance for flight attendants and ensuring their well-being.
TWU International president John Samuelsen has expressed his approval of the new contract, highlighting the significant improvements it offers. He believes that this agreement will have a positive effect on future negotiations between airlines and their flight attendants. The president of Southwest Airlines, Adam Carlise, has also spoken out in support of the agreement, stating that it not only rewards the flight attendants but also strengthens the airline’s operations.
The ratification of the new labor contract by Southwest Airlines flight attendants represents a significant milestone for the industry. The industry-leading compensation increases, along with the quality-of-life enhancements, are expected to set a new standard for flight attendants’ working conditions. The positive reactions from both the union representatives and airline executives indicate that this agreement is a step in the right direction for all parties involved.