ORLANDO, Fla. – United Airlines flight attendants were joined by supporters Thursday in a continued push for a new contract with the carrier.
The picket at Orlando International Airport was part of a nationwide day of action and one of nearly 20 demonstrations at airports across the U.S.
The march was planned after United announced third quarter revenue of nearly $14.48 billion and earnings of $1.14 billion.
Union leaders said pay raises and changes in work rules are long overdue.
“We want the company to come to the table and reach an agreement,” United AFA Local President Randy Hatfield said. “They’re making record profits, and we want a record industry-leading contract.”
In response to Thursday’s demonstrations, a spokesperson for United released a statement:
“We are seeing good progress in our negotiations with the Association of Flight Attendants and closed out six sections of our contract with them on Wednesday. We are hopeful that this progress will provide momentum toward our goal of reaching an industry-leading agreement. All United flights will operate as planned while our flight attendants exercise their right to distribute information and picket while off-duty.”
Meanwhile, American Airlines flight attendants recently voted to authorize a strike as they’re in negotiations for a 50% increase in wages.
A strike can only happen if it’s authorized by the National Mediation Board and after a legally required 30-day cooling off period.
The flight attendants at United said any strike talks are not currently happening and hope their employer will soon meet their demands.
Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily: