Southwest, United, Alaska and American Airlines are all facing potential strikes, but the good news is that all are still negotiating and seem to be bargaining in good faith.
There is some bad news, however.
One union for the flight attendant says that a holiday strike is on the table.
And after last Christmas, the last thing the airlines need is another piece of adversity to slow down holiday travel.
There is no reason to create a sense of urgency since the negotiations are governed by the Railway Labor Act and require a series of steps that both sides must follow, including an appearance before the National Mediation Board.
Still, a threat to strike during the holidays is a cause for concern and conjures of all kinds of nightmares about last year’s delays and cancelations around the holidays. Flight attendants at American Airlines have talked openly about a strike during the holidays and authorized a strike with an overwhelming vote.
"This strike-authorization vote represents an important step in our fight for an industry-leading agreement," the union said in a statement. "Your negotiations team will return to the bargaining table with a clear message to management that American Airlines flight attendants are fired up and ready for our contract."
The union reiterated that, if need be, it will not be deterred.
"We cannot strike until released by the National Mediation Board and following a 30-day cooling-off period," the union added. "But if management continues proposing concessions coupled with meager improvements to compensation and retirement, we will not hesitate to request a release to strike if necessary."
What the airlines need to take seriously, however, is precedent. Flight attendant for Southwest Airlines rejected a proposal in June and have been working without a contract for almost six years.
Still, also relying on history, there appears to be hope.
"Ninety-nine percent of mediation cases 99% of mediation cases since 1980 have resulted in an agreement. A major U.S. airline has not had a strike since 1997 and it ended immediately," a spokesperson for Southwest said.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
