United Flight Attendants Reject Tentative Agreement

United Airlines cabin crew members overwhelmingly voted against a proposed contract, signaling a clear demand for stronger terms before ratifying any deal.

 Strong Vote Results

• 92% of eligible flight attendants participated, with 71% voting to reject the tentative agreement.

• The vote reflects dissatisfaction with the current offer despite its promise of up to 40% value gain in year one, including retroactive pay and improvements to scheduling and compensation.
  

Union Leadership Responds

Ken Diaz, president of the United Airlines chapter of the Association of Flight Attendants‑CWA (AFA), stated:

“We voted to send a strong message… the agreement didn’t go far enough to address years of sacrifice and hard work… Flight Attendants need substantial improvements as soon as possible.”

The union plans to survey members swiftly to pinpoint priority issues before returning to negotiations.

 What’s Next

• United Airlines management affirmed they will continue working with the union and emphasized their commitment to delivering a “contract [flight attendants] deserve.”

• Federal mediation, initiated in 2023, will remain active as discussions resume.
  

Background

This vote follows a contract proposal in May 2025 that included retroactive payments (averaging $21,000, up to $50,000 for long-tenured staff), as well as pay increases of up to 26.9%. However, key concerns around scheduling, unpaid ground time, and other work rules remained unaddressed.