United Airlines and the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA) have reached a tentative agreement that, if ratified, will deliver industry-leading pay increases along with a range of improvements for the airline's 28,000 flight attendants. This significant development marks a major milestone in labour relations for the airline and represents a strong step forward in enhancing the working conditions of its frontline crew.
Final contract language is currently being finalised and is expected to be completed in the coming days. Once concluded, the proposed agreement will be submitted for approval to the AFA's Master Executive Council, which is composed of all Local Presidents representing United flight attendants. Should the Council approve the terms, the agreement will then be presented to the flight attendants for a vote on ratification.
If ratified, the new contract will not only include substantial pay increases that set a new benchmark across the industry, but will also provide a signing bonus and numerous enhancements to scheduling flexibility and overall quality of life for flight attendants. These enhancements will address longstanding concerns and reflect a commitment to improving the work-life balance for crew members. The new agreement would remain in effect for five years, at which point it would become amendable.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby emphasised the importance of the airline's flight attendants, stating: “Our flight attendants are the best in the industry and have earned an industry-leading contract. I often say they are the face of our operation and the role they play every day – to keep people safe and deliver great service – helps make United the biggest and best airline in aviation history.”
The airline expressed its gratitude to the negotiating teams from both sides and to the National Mediation Board for their role in facilitating the discussions and helping to reach a mutually beneficial agreement. This tentative deal is a reflection of months of dedicated negotiation and is poised to strengthen morale and performance across United's cabin crew workforce.
As the agreement moves toward potential ratification, it signals a renewed spirit of collaboration and shared commitment to excellence within the company—highlighting United's recognition of the vital contribution of its flight attendants to the airline's ongoing success.
