Voluntary Furlough Closes January 8

Date: January 6, 2014
Type: AFA Article

Bidding for the 2014 Voluntary Furlough will close in two days, on January 8, at 0800 CST. Any decision to participate in this program is a big consideration, and one that should include thoughtful deliberation to determine if this choice is the right one for you personally.  

There are definite advantages to the program: retention of seniority, medical & dental benefits as well as pass travel entitlements; and the ability to enjoy discretionary time off to pursue other interests in your life - all with job protection.  For some, this is a well-timed and advantageous opportunity.  For others, the choice, or the timing simply does not benefit, or is not a good consideration.

As with previous furloughs, the element of uncertainty can weigh heavily in our decision making process.  The increase in number of furloughs sought by the company, and the emphasis by management on the potential for an involuntary furlough is an additional factor this year, heightening any fear that may already exist.  And, when you couple this with the back and forth related to the latest management crossover proposal, it may raise the anxiety level even higher for some.

Remember, it is important that you make the best decision for you, based on your circumstances and not based on fear.  Bid for the voluntary furlough is you wish to take the time off.  Depending on your seniority, bidding for the voluntary furlough to avoid involuntary furlough, when you don’t want the time off to begin with, is not a strategy that is guaranteed to work.  The end result could be that you are awarded a voluntary furlough when you may wish not to have the time off.

The second, and more integral component in any reduction in force, is the Partnership Program, which closes next week on January 13, 2014. The Partnership Program was established solely for the protection of United Flight Attendant jobs, and is yet another tool that can be used to mitigate United’s overstaffing issues with a less dramatic impact on some Members individual circumstances than the voluntary furlough option.  

Partnership may be a good choice for some who do not wish to be on voluntary furlough by offering the advantages of seniority and benefits accrual, while maintaining income at a temporary, reduced level.  The next Partnership Program is scheduled to run for April, May and June 2014.

Similar to the Voluntary Furlough, this program may or may not be an option for you, depending on your specific situation.  One consideration is that you’ll need to find a partner if you chose to pursue this option; and that’s something for which you may wish to plan ahead. Consider your options thoughtfully and carefully as you decide what is best for you and your family.

The United Master Executive Council continues to meet, discuss and affirm strategy on the issue of any potential involuntary furlough.  AFA has reaffirmed our commitment to vigorously and aggressively defend all Members, and take any and all actions necessary to prevent United management from putting any United Flight Attendant on involuntary furlough as a result of productivity changes resulting from the changes in the 2012-2016 Contract.

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