3.16.20 – PHL Base Brief

Monday, March 16, 2020

Dear Philadelphia Flight Attendants:

We are in the midst of a crisis not only in our industry, but throughout the world.  No one really knows how long this will last or how long it will take to recover.

Here is what I know as of this writing: PBS will run as scheduled, closing March 18th at noon DFW time. VLOA’s were reopened and will close March 17th at 0800 DFW time. We are encouraging you NOT to bid the UK IPD sequences that we know are not going to operate. As a reminder, if you use your standing bid each month, be sure to update your bid if you do not want to risk bidding the already canceled UK IPD sequences. As of today, the Company is only providing pay protections included in the JCBA.

There will not be enough flying time for the amount of Flight Attendants we have in the base. If you would like to fly lower time, please remember to adjust your Target Credit Range accordingly. Do not be surprised if you do not hold the hours you normally bid, or the trips you normally hold.

It has been reported via social media that the company and APFA have been in discussions for extended voluntary leaves (VXLOA) that would be offered in durations of 6/9/12 months. This is accurate information, and the terms of these leaves will be forthcoming.

I cannot stress enough how fluid information is or how fast things are changing. Try to slow down your actions- do not react to rumors or social media gossip. The Union is working closely with the company to do all we can to minimize the impact of this crisis. Situations like this take a toll on us financially, and also have the potential to affect our emotional, physical, and mental well-being. Please reach out to the resources available to assist you if you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression.

We are working around the clock to try to stay ahead of this storm. We will do our very best to keep you updated. Make no mistake – your safety, health, quality of life and earning potential is our number one priority.

For the most up-to-date information, visit www.apfa.org and continue to monitor mobile CCI for company communications.

In Unity and Solidarity,

Kim Kaswinkel
APFA PHL Base President
[email protected]

Tracey Montanari
APFA PHL Base Vice President
[email protected]