9.17.22 – A Message From Your APFA National Officers

Saturday, September 17, 2022

San Francisco Flight Attendant Family,

Earlier this week, American management announced their intent to close the San Francisco Flight Attendant base effective with the February 2023 bid month. While these rumors have swirled periodically for many years, hearing the official announcement is a kick to the gut. 403 Flight Attendants and their families will be uprooted and forced to make difficult, personal life decisions.

Upon notification, we immediately initiated a series of daily calls with your Base Leadership, Tim Schwartz and Brian Yan, to ensure that American complied with JCBA base closing language. Even though management promised they had a plan to address Flight Attendant questions and concerns, it quickly became evident that they were woefully unprepared. For example, there was no plan to address the lack of commuter parking availability at SFO, and there was no information on the number of vacancies at bases across the system- completely unacceptable.

APFA National, including National Officers and Department Chairs, continue to advocate for San Francisco Flight Attendants, taking direction from Tim and Brian as questions and concerns arise. As of this writing, we are concerned about sufficient vacancies in bases geographically close to SFO. While LAX is currently not an option due to existing displacements, we will continue meeting with management to open as much availability as possible in PHX, ORD, and DFW. As more information becomes available, we will communicate immediately.

We know that so much is running through your minds right now. We want you to have the resources to have your questions answered. Many questions and concerns regarding transfers, moving expenses, settling days, etc., will arise. Please reach out to our APFA Contract and Scheduling Representatives, who stand ready to assist.

If you are overwhelmed and need assistance during this process, please contact our Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and Flight Attendant Drug and Alcohol (FADAP) Representatives. You do not have to navigate this difficult transition alone. Contact information is at the bottom of this message.

Two of your National Officers, Julie Hedrick and Larry Salas, spent over 25 years in San Francisco and forged strong bonds with many of you, serving as APFA Base President and Vice President. This closing hits particularly close to home, and we want you to know that we will do all possible to ensure a smooth transition. San Francisco Flight Attendants are a family and have always cared for one another. Please continue to care for yourselves and each other, and never hesitate to reach out for assistance.

Respectfully,

Marcus Recarte, EAP Specialist: (602) 617-2208
Deborah McCormick, FADAP/EAP Specialist: (401) 225-1459