American Airlines Flight Attendants Welcome Merger Announcement

Labor Plays Key Role in Creating Nation’s Largest Airline

EULESS, Texas--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Association of Professional Flight Attendants enthusiastically welcomed today’s announcement that American Airlines and US Airways have agreed to a merger.

APFA President Laura Glading said, “It’s been a long, tough road but the result is well worth it. Today’s announcement proves that everyone benefits when labor has a seat at the table. The new American will provide job security and fair compensation and benefits for all employees. It will also be a great option for the traveling public. I'm looking forward to working with our new colleagues as our companies’ operations and cultures combine. Flight attendants are eager to help build a strong and competitive airline and restore American’s prominence.”

In April of 2012, four months after American Airlines filed for bankruptcy protection, its unions announced that they had reached agreements with the management of US Airways in the event of a merger. APFA quickly recognized the value of merging the two carriers and worked for the ensuing year to bring the deal to fruition.

American Airlines’ Chapter 11 proceedings provided an unanticipated avenue to build one of the largest and most competitive airlines in the world in terms of network, passengers, and fleet. This merger will provide flight attendants at the new American Airlines with a fair and competitive contract and much improved job security.

Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA)

Founded in 1977, the Association of Professional Flight Attendants (APFA) is the largest independent Flight Attendant union in the nation. It represents the 16,000 Flight Attendants at American Airlines. APFA Members live in almost every state of the nation and serve millions of Americans as they travel the nation and the world. Laura Glading is serving in her second four-year term as president of the union. For more information visit apfa.org.