EAP Resources While on Reduced Flying or Unpaid Status

Date: May 2, 2020
Type: AFA Article

 

Are you facing a period of reduced or unpaid time off from flying?

The announcement of reduced flying schedules and the subsequent need for leaves of absence and furloughs has many Flight Attendants feeling anxious and concerned. Local Unemployment offices are facing an unprecedented demand for information and assistance. Many states are revising their requirements to make it easier for workers to apply online. 

Our Contract provides answers to questions about pay protections, furlough mitigation, and other furlough protections. Information reduces uncertainty and can assist you in planning your next steps.  We encourage you to review our Contract for these items and check updates from AFA posted on our website at www.unitedafa.org for the latest news on any supplemental agreements or procedures that may be put in place as a result of current discussions between management and your AFA leadership. United management has pledged not to contest unemployment benefits for those taking a voluntary Leave of Absence. 

Additional benefits for Flight Attendants can be found in the recently passed CARES Act. Because of your many calls and letters to Congress and through AFA’s advocacy on Capitol Hill and the direct interaction with lawmakers, we were able to secure financial relief for individual workers and airlines in a way that promotes direct support of continued paychecks, healthcare, and financial viability of the airlines. All of this was made law while placing restrictions on stock buybacks, dividends, executive bonuses and using funds in any way to undermine worker rights.  

Our AFA EAP/Professional Standards and Legal departments have compiled a list of useful resources for those who may be affected for resources such as the United Way, the AFL-CIO and Union Plus Benefits. Flight Attendants are encouraged to contact their Local EAP representatives if they have questions or need additional assistance. 

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