1.06.23 – Attendance in New York

Friday, January 6, 2023

Attendance in New York

While I would like to write about more positive things, our careers are a top priority. While we have begun a new year, the terminations due to attendance continue. American Airlines created the Attendance Flight Service Manager (AFSM) program to track, correct, and punish absenteeism. Based on what we have experienced since this program began in the fall of 2022, absenteeism and dependability will be the driving force moving forward. As your base president, this sudden rise in terminations during a pandemic seems like a new way of forced attrition. Even though we perform a physically demanding job under extreme conditions such as constantly changing time zones, pressurization, and blown circadian rhythms, the attendance policy is unforgiving when you reach a certain point. As a Flight Attendant and your representative, I know we are not immune to illness or emergent situations. We are not a robotic workforce and are still working during a global pandemic, still testing positive for COVID.

Knowledge is Power. Know where you are in the attendance policy. If you need help understanding something, contact any base council rep. In the coming weeks, we will host a series of ZOOM sessions to help bring you more detailed information on your rights as a union member. Here in New York, we have resources, and our goal is to ensure you have knowledge and support.

Here are a few essential tips to keep in mind:

• Always copy your Local APFA Representatives in communications with your AFSM – [email protected].
• Ensure you check your company email for any notices from your AFSM to schedule a meeting. If you do not take advantage of the days given, it will be scheduled for you.
• Review your My View on the Flight Service website and contact us if you have questions or find any errors.
• Do not share any medical or personal information with any member of management, as this violates your HIPAA rights.
• Please get in touch with your local APFA reps before committing to a meeting date or time to ensure we are available to represent you.
•  Avoid discussing issues that pertain to your attendance, even in casual conversation, without union representation.

Please fly safe and take care of one another.

In Unity,

Christian M. Santana
APFA LGA Base President 
[email protected]
(347) 546-0703

Penelope King
APFA LGA Base Vice President
[email protected]
(718) 350-7043

PROUD to Represent New York-LGA