Latest news with #flightattendants
Skift
19 minutes ago
- Business
- Skift
United Flight Attendants to Receive More Pay, Benefits After Heated Contract Talks
The tentative agreement ends years of heated talks between flight attendants and United management. Just last year, flight attendants voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike. United Airlines flight attendants are set to receive payscale raises that average about 27%, according to a tentative agreement posted Tuesday by the flight attendants' union. For example, a first-year flight attendant at United will be paid $36.92 per hour, a 27.8% increase from the $28.88 hourly wage. A flight attendant who has worked at least 13 years with the airline will now receive $84.78 an hour, up from $67.11. Voting for the new contract is set to start July 7 and will end July 29. If the contract is approved, then it will go into effect on July 30. Along with raises, flight attendants will also receive boarding pay. One of the issues among flight attendants across the airline industry was a lack of boarding pay. Flight attendants have typically only been compensated for their work inside the plane. The contract also includes provisions for healthcare and an increase in 401(k) matching. Flight attendants will also receive 10 weeks of paid maternity leave, along with two weeks for paid parental and adoption leave. The agreement gives the union more say over hotel selection and the ability for flight attendants to select their own crew meals. Those meals will be of the same quality as those served to passengers in business class cabins. Airlines Reach Agreements With Flight Attendants United was one of the last U.S. airlines to be in contract negotiations with flight attendants. American Airlines, Southwest Airlines, and Alaska Airlines recently reached agreements with their respective flight attendant unions. At times, negotiations became heated. Last August, United flight attendants voted overwhelmingly to authorize a strike. However, United flight attendants couldn't immediately strike. The Railway Labor Act has a 30-day 'cooling off' period before any strikes can occur. The National Mediation Board also has to release flight attendants from negotiations. United flight attendants also held multiple rallies at the carrier's hubs to advocate for more benefits. What am I looking at? The performance of airline sector stocks within the ST200. The index includes companies publicly traded across global markets including network carriers, low-cost carriers, and other related companies. The Skift Travel 200 (ST200) combines the financial performance of nearly 200 travel companies worth more than a trillion dollars into a single number. See more airlines sector financial performance. Read the full methodology behind the Skift Travel 200.
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2FTAL-lead-image-FLTATTNDTHACKS0525-34e9822598874898ad7953a31d896844.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
3 days ago
- Health
These Flight Attendant Hacks and Off-menu Perks Could Make Your Next Long-haul Flight More Comfortable
Let's face it. Long-haul flights can be rough, especially if you're sitting in economy—but they don't have to be. In fact, there are ways to turn that next hours-long flight from a miserable experience (into dare we say it?) a pleasant one, and those strategies go beyond booking the right seat or bringing a neck pillow. And who knows more about flying than the professionals who spend their working lives in the sky? Their insights come from thousands of hours of observing the things that work for themselves and for passengers. We recently tapped a few flight attendants who work long-haul routes to learn their insider tips on maximizing comfort at 35,000 feet. The next time you fly a long-haul, try incorporating some of these flight attendant-approved strategies. You may just find that the time passes more quickly and comfortably. A passenger drinking tea after ordering hot water on a flight. Margot Cavin/Travel + Leisure Flight attendants can provide more than just the standard beverage service. According to Larry Holcombe, an American Airlines flight attendant, passengers can request first aid supplies like Band-Aids or over-the-counter pain relievers. Parents of infants can even ask crew members to warm up baby bottles by placing them in hot water. Holcombe says passengers can also request hot water. While hot water on its own doesn't sound too exciting, it can help make your trip more enjoyable if you've packed your own tea or an instant meal. Anne-Marie Miller, a flight attendant for Air New Zealand, points out that on long-haul flights, passengers can use the in-flight entertainment system to order snacks and drinks—but you can also do something else with them. "A lot of people don't realize you can also order items like dental kits and eye masks,' she says. 'We have these available on request for customers in economy." Miller also says that if you feel chilly in the cabin, don't hesitate to request an extra pillow or blanket. 'We usually have a few spares tucked away, and a little extra support can make a big difference to your comfort," she says. A passenger opening a water bottle. Margot Cavin/Travel + Leisure The cabin environment can be surprisingly dehydrating, and cabin humidity usually hovers around 20 percent. In comparison, average indoor humidity usually measures in at around 40 to 60 percent. To counter the effects of the dry atmosphere, it's important to plan accordingly. "Airplane cabins can be quite dry, so hydration is important," says Holcombe. "Some customers bring a refillable water bottle and ask the flight attendants for refills. We're happy to provide them with water during beverage service and at other times." Miller agrees, emphasizing that staying hydrated is one of the most critical factors of in-flight comfort. 'Cabin air is extremely dry, which can cause fatigue, dry skin, and headaches,' Miller says. 'Try drinking eight glasses before boarding, and keep sipping throughout the flight. It's a simple habit, but it can leave you feeling so much fresher when you land." For those looking to level up their hydration game, Holcombe mentions that experienced travelers often bring their methods of sprucing up hydration, from a tea to individually packed hydration supplement packets. Little touches like those can make the flight more enjoyable and staying hydrated less tedious. An empty airplane seat. Margot Cavin/Travel + Leisure Timing matters when it comes to in-flight requests. Holcombe suggests waiting until after takeoff to ask about switching seats—never make a request during boarding when the crew is trying to get everyone settled. Once the plane is in the air, though, flight attendants are generally happy to help you move within your ticketed cabin as long as it doesn't disrupt the flow of the flight. As for getting a drink refill or asking for help? You're good to go when the seatbelt sign is off, but just avoid doing so between door closure and takeoff. 'The only times we ask customers to hold off on the call button are during takeoff and landing or when the captain has asked us to be seated during turbulence,' says Miller. A passenger listening to noise canceling head phones. Margot Cavin/Travel + Leisure Flying-related anxiety is extremely common. 'If you're feeling anxious or unwell, don't hesitate to let the crew know—we're here to support you however we can," Miller says. For those who struggle with anxiety or fear of flying, Holcombe recommends deep breathing exercises and distraction techniques. "Nervous travelers might be interested in the Calm Channel, which features soothing music and relaxing soundscapes and is available through our Wi-Fi streaming," he says. Holcombe adds that ginger candies or over-the-counter medication like Dramamine can help with motion sickness, and that customers can ask crew members for cold, damp towels to put on the back of their neck. Passengers wearing noise cancelling head phones and eye mask. Margot Cavin/Travel + Leisure Flight attendants can often spot frequent travelers by what they bring, and Holcombe says experienced fliers usually use noise-canceling headphones to block out cabin noise and sleep masks to block out light. "Some bring a personal blanket and pillow or layer their clothing to adjust to varying cabin temperatures," he says. Miller says another way to tell if someone is a seasoned flyer is when they buckle their seatbelt over their blanket. 'We love this because it means we don't have to disturb you during turbulence checks," she says. For entertainment, Holcombe notes that experienced travelers, "regularly bring a book or download music and movies on a personal device for entertainment." While this might seem obvious, having your entertainment predownloaded (rather than trying to access it on spotty in-flight Wi-Fi) can make a big difference on a long journey. Holcombe recommends regularly wearing compression socks on long-hauls. "Standing, stretching, or walking a bit is also helpful," he says. These simple precautions can reduce the risk of discomfort and even more serious conditions like deep vein thrombosis on extended flights. A full row on a flight. Margot Cavin/Travel + Leisure Choosing the right seat can dramatically impact your flight experience. There's always a trade-off between aisle seats and window seats. Holcombe says some passengers prefer easy access to the aisle to stretch their legs and go to the bathroom, while others prefer window seats so they can rest their heads and enjoy the view. Another consideration that some passengers may not think of is luggage strategy. Holcombe explains that checking a bag can ease stress during boarding and deplaning, and customers won't have to worry about finding overhead bin space. Passengers with a travel pillow and noise cancelling headphones. Margot Cavin/Travel + Leisure What do flight attendants personally prioritize packing while traveling? Holcombe never travels without "a personal blanket, toiletries like toothpaste and a toothbrush, and at least one change of clothing in my carry-on bags." He also makes sure to pack charging cords and a portable charger. He's especially prepared for family travel. "When traveling with kids, I make sure we have extra snacks, quiet games, and kid-friendly movies on the iPad," he says. Miller, on the other hand, swears by a good neck pillow. 'It might feel awkward at first, but once you find one that properly supports your head, it's a game-changer for getting a solid rest onboard," she says. "I'm also never without a pair of earplugs or Bluetooth headphones for blocking out the cabin noise—and I love tuning into our inflight meditation playlists for some relaxation." View of a flight attendant call button. Margot Cavin/Travel + Leisure When it comes to common in-flight misunderstandings, Holcombe explains that while seat changes can be made, there are cabin limitations, and passengers can't move from the main cabin to first class even if there is an open seat. He adds that flight attendants are not responsible for seat assignments. He also cautions against a few common misconceptions about using the call button. "It's not necessary to use the call button for small things like trash pickup because we will pick up trash during our cabin walk-throughs throughout the flight," Holcombe says. "Passengers can politely get our attention and ask for assistance as we walk the aisles. We won't bite." Meanwhile, Miller wants to dispel the notion that flight attendants dislike the call button. 'One myth I've heard is that we don't like answering the call button outside of scheduled service,' she says. 'That's not the case at all! If you'd like a drink, a snack, or need help fixing a screen or adjusting your seat, that's what we're here for—so please go ahead and press the button." However, as Holcombe points out, there are also practical limits to what flight attendants can do. "Flight attendants cannot retrieve your checked luggage to get your prescription medications and car keys out," he says. "Those are things customers should always put in their carry-on bags."
%3Amax_bytes(150000)%3Astrip_icc()%2FTAL-britney-spears-red-carpet-2019-BRITNEYFLIGHT0525-c72122780e224fa8949281edb9c8ac9b.jpg&w=3840&q=100)
27-05-2025
- General
Britney Spears Broke This Major FAA Rule and Was Met by Authorities Upon Landing
Britney Spears learned the hard way that you should always follow all the rules on a commercial airplane, including never—ever—lighting up a cigarette. On May 22, Spears was caught smoking mid-flight on her way back from Cabo San Lucas while reportedly onboard a JSX flight, a public charter airline. According to People , the act "alarmed" flight attendants, who promptly instructed the pop star to put the cigarette out, which she did. However, the crew still contacted authorities, who spoke to Spears when the flight landed at Los Angeles International Airport. "This is not her first warning," a source shared with People . "She doesn't exactly follow the rules." Spears also posted about the incident on her Instagram account, sharing a video of herself on the flight, along with a caption that reads, 'Me yesterday !!! It's actually incredibly funny!!!' 'Some planes I've been on you can't smoke mostly but this one was different because the drink holders were on [the] outside of [the] seat!!! Confession it was my first time drinking VODKA!!! I swear I felt so SMART!!! I was like wow what the heck is in there !!! I felt so clear and smart !!! And said I want a cigarette so bad!!!' She then explained that a "friend" placed one in her mouth and lit it, leading her to assume she could smoke on the plane. She went on to apologize to anyone she "offended" on the flight, noting that she believed she was being met by authorities as a show of "support." "The flight attendant called officials because I smoked a cigarette !!! And embarrass me, which jeez I thought was kinda much, but she didn't like me the moment I got on [the] plane," Spears added. The Federal Aviation Authority (FAA) banned smoking on domestic flights that were less than two hours in 1988 and two years later, banned smoking on flights under six hours, which covered most flights across the nation. However, it took until the year 2000 for smoking to be banned on all flights to and from the U.S., according to Business Insider, when then-President Clinton signed the Wendell H. Ford Aviation Investment and Reform Act for the 21st Century. And in 2016, the U.S. updated its rules to include banning the use of e-cigarettes, too. And really, it's not worth pushing the limits like Spears. As USA Today noted, FAA regulations state that they can give a maximum fine of $25,000 for smoking on planes and "distracting crews." The ban isn't just for crew and passenger comfort, either. Lion Air explains on its website, "Smoking on board can pose a serious fire risk. Dry air conditions in the aircraft cabin can also make fuel more flammable. In an emergency, controlling and extinguishing fires on board can be extremely difficult and potentially compromise the safety of all passengers and cabin crew." It added, "Secondhand smoke can disturb other non-smoking passengers, due to the unpleasant smell of cigarettes, and can cause irritation to the nose, eyes, and throat. Restricting smoking on board ensures that all passengers can enjoy their journey comfortably."
Daily Mail
26-05-2025
- Daily Mail
Flight attendant reveals the real reason they wear red lipstick
A former flight attendant has revealed a little-known reason why female cabin crew wear red lipstick - and it's more than just a fashion statement. Heather Poole, who spent two decades flying for a major U.S. airline, revealed in her memoir, Cruising Attitude: Tales of Crashpads, Crew Drama, and Crazy Passengers at 35,000 Feet, that the bold red lip once served a surprising purpose. During her time in the air, red lipstick was part of official grooming standards, but it also had a specific safety function. According to Poole, the distinguishable shade was worn so that passengers could read flight attendants' lips during an emergency. She explained that in a loud, chaotic situation, passengers might not hear what flight attendants are saying, but they could see their lips moving. The idea is that a vivid lip colour can assist in non-verbal communication, a critical tool when trying to direct panicked passengers toward exits or life-saving equipment. She also suggested that the colour red projects authority, giving the impression that flight attendants are 'in control' of the situation. However, veteran flight attendant Sydney Anistine told Reader's Digest she's 'never heard' of lipstick being used for safety purposes, adding: 'These days, if you see someone wearing a bright lip, it's just a style choice.' Kristine Eksteine-Nizka, a longtime cabin crew member and travel writer, agreed, noting that for many airlines, especially luxury carriers like Emirates, the red lip is more about branding than safety. She said: 'Emirates has a specific makeup look that the flight attendants need to adhere to - they even have makeup training for their girls.' Still, the image of the glamorous, perfectly polished flight attendant has deep historical roots, with lipstick being 'serious business,' according to Poole. In the golden age of aviation during the 1950s and 1960s, airlines like the now-defunct Pan Am enforced strict appearance codes. Former Pan Am stewardess Sheila Riley recalled how makeup choices were micromanaged. She said: 'If you were caught wearing, say, blue eye-shadow or scarlet lipstick you were told to wipe it off because they wanted us to look natural and wholesome.' The airline even mandated Revlon's Persian Melon lipstick and matching nail polish - incidentally, the make-up brand's founder Charles Revlon was on Pan Am's board of directors at the time. Elsewhere, travellers have discovered a hidden detail in the Virgin Australia staff uniforms that few have noticed. The cherry red uniforms might seem identical at first, but there's a glaring difference between those worn by flight attendants and guest services agents. Flight attendants wear a lilac and deep purple neck scarf along with a winged pin, whereas ground staff wear a purple and red neck scarf and do not have a specialised pin. While millions fly the airline everyday, many weren't aware of the subtle difference in the uniforms. Virgin staff recently shared a video revealing the differences and debunked common myths.
Yahoo
24-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (UAL) and Flight Attendants Reach Tentative Contract Agreement, Says Union
United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:UAL) and its 28,000 flight attendants have reached a tentative agreement for a new contract, the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA) said on Friday. The union described the tentative deal as 'industry-leading', saying it would result in a 40% financial gain for the flight attendants in the first year of the contract. United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:UAL)'s cabin crew has not had a raise since 2020. A bird's eye view of a large commercial jetliner taking off from an airport runway. The proposed contract also includes a signing bonus, retroactive pay, and improved quality of life, said the AFA. The union's leaders are expected to meet next week to review the complete details of the agreement. If approved, the deal would be sent for a ratification vote. In 2023, United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:UAL)'s cabin crews had filed for federal mediation, demanding a double-digit pay raise, an increase in pay for time at work, schedule flexibility, retroactive pay, and work rule improvements. They also authorized the union to call a strike if the negotiators failed to reach a deal. Flight attendants across the United States have pushed for wage increases over the last few years, especially after pilots secured new labor deals in response to the coronavirus pandemic. United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:UAL) is set to become the latest major airline in the country to sign an agreement with its flight attendants. While we acknowledge the potential of UAL as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns and have limited downside risk. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than UAL and that has 100x upside potential, check out our report about this cheapest AI stock. READ NEXT: ChatGPT Stock Advice: Top 12 Stock Recommendations and 10 Cheap Rising Stocks to Buy Right Now. Disclosure: None.
