Flight attendants at United Airlines voted in favor of a strike authorization.

The union approved to authorize a strike with 99.99% of the vote.

“Over 90% of the flight attendants participated,” Reuters noted.

“This marks the first time in nearly 20 years that they’ve voted on such a proposal. The historic announcement followed a demonstration at O’Hare Airport on Wednesday. American Airlines flight attendants were also present to show their support,” Chuck Callesto wrote.

“The flight attendants are advocating for raises, flexible schedules, better work rules, job security, retirement benefits, and more,” he added.

Per Reuters:

Over 28,000 flight attendants of the Chicago-based carrier affiliated with the AFA have been negotiating for a double-digit base pay increase and higher pay for time at work – including on-ground duties, retroactive pay, schedule flexibility and work rule improvements.

“As Labor Day travel begins, United management is reminded what’s at stake if we don’t get this done,” said Ken Diaz, president of the United chapter of the AFA.

The situation unfolds amid new contract negotiations in the U.S. and Canada, where cabin crews at carriers are also seeking compensation for on-ground duties such as boarding passengers and waiting between flights.

WATCH:

ABC7 Chicago reports:

The flight attendants union said it filed for federal mediation over eight months ago and have been working under an amendable contract for nearly three years.

United Airlines said in a statement, “We continue to work toward an industry-leading agreement for our flight attendants, including negotiations this week and every month through November. Both sides have been actively engaged in these negotiations facilitated by the federal mediator requested by the union. We remain eager to reach an agreement.

“To be clear, there is no work stoppage or labor disruption. Instead, off-duty flight attendants are exercising their right to conduct an informational picket. Federal law bars a strike until after a lengthy process that includes a release from mediation, which can only be granted by the National Mediation Board.”

WATCH:

 

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